Auto Auctions in 2025: How Online Car Auctions Work (Dealer & Public Guide)
Learn how auto auctions work in 2025 for both dealers and the public. Discover the best online car auction sites, how bidding works, and how to ship your car after purchase.
Auto Auctions in 2025: How Online Car Auctions Work (Dealer & Public Guide)
Introduction
In 2025, auto auctions have become one of the most popular ways to buy and sell vehicles — both for dealerships and everyday buyers. From online platforms like Copart and IAAI to dealer-only auctions like Manheim, these marketplaces offer thousands of vehicles daily at competitive prices.
Whether you’re a car dealer, a reseller, or an individual looking for a bargain, this guide will walk you through how auto auctions work, how to bid, and how to ship your purchased vehicle safely with FastCarShip.
What Is an Auto Auction?
An auto auction is a marketplace where vehicles are sold to the highest bidder. These cars can come from:
- Dealership trade-ins
- Bank repossessions
- Insurance companies (salvage or damaged cars)
- Government and fleet vehicles
- Private sellers
There are two main types of auctions: public (open to everyone) and dealer-only (requires a license).
Types of Auto Auctions
1. Public Auto Auctions
These auctions allow anyone to participate — no dealer license required. They are perfect for private buyers who want affordable vehicles.
Popular platforms:
- 🚘 *Copart*
- 🚗 *IAAI (Insurance Auto Auctions)*
- 🚙 *AutoBidMaster*
- 🚕 *ACV Auctions (public listings section)*
2. Dealer-Only Auctions
Exclusively for licensed car dealers. These auctions often feature newer, higher-quality inventory and bulk lots.
Examples:
- *Manheim*
- *ADESA*
- *ServNet*
3. Online Auctions
Since 2020, the rise of digital bidding has made it easy to buy vehicles online from anywhere in the U.S. Buyers can browse inventory, check photos, read reports, and bid in real time.
How Auto Auctions Work
1. Register for an Account
Sign up with your chosen auction platform. Some require ID verification or a refundable deposit.
2. Search Vehicles
Filter by make, model, year, mileage, damage type, or location.
3. Inspect Vehicle Details
Review the condition report, photos, and title status (clean, salvage, rebuilt).
4. Place a Bid
You can bid manually or set a maximum auto-bid limit.
5. Win and Pay
If you win, you’ll receive a purchase confirmation. Payment is usually due within 2 business days.
6. Arrange Transport
Once payment is complete, schedule your car shipping with a reliable company like FastCarShip to move the vehicle to your home or dealership.
Top Auto Auction Sites in 2025
| Auction Platform | Access Type | Vehicle Types | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copart | Public & Dealer | Salvage, used, ex-fleet | Nationwide | Great for budget buyers |
| IAAI | Public & Dealer | Insurance & recovered vehicles | Nationwide | Strong title transparency |
| Manheim | Dealer-only | Used, certified pre-owned | Nationwide | Industry-leading inventory |
| ACV Auctions | Dealer-only (limited public) | Used vehicles | U.S. & Canada | Digital-first platform |
| GovDeals | Public | Government fleet cars | Nationwide | Auctions from agencies & municipalities |
Pros and Cons of Buying from Auto Auctions
✅ Advantages
- Lower prices than retail.
- Large selection of vehicles daily.
- Online access from anywhere.
- Opportunity for resale profit.
❌ Disadvantages
- Limited warranties (most cars are sold “as-is”).
- Some vehicles may require repairs.
- Additional auction and transport fees.
How Much Do Cars Cost at Auction?
Prices vary widely depending on vehicle condition and title type.
| Vehicle Type | Average Auction Price | Retail Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Compact Sedan | $3,000 – $7,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| SUV / Crossover | $5,000 – $12,000 | $13,000 – $20,000 |
| Pickup Truck | $6,000 – $15,000 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Salvage Car | $500 – $3,000 | N/A |
💡 *Tip:* Always factor in transport costs, title fees, and repairs before finalizing your bid.
Shipping Your Car After an Auction
Once you’ve won a vehicle at auction, you’ll need to arrange delivery.
That’s where FastCarShip comes in.
🚚 We Offer:
- Pickup from all major auction locations (Copart, IAAI, Manheim, ADESA)
- Nationwide delivery within 2–7 days
- Open or enclosed carrier options
- Fully insured transport
Simply provide the auction lot number and delivery address — we’ll handle the rest.
How Long Does Auction Car Shipping Take?
| Route Type | Average Time | Example |
|---|---|---|
| In-state | 1–3 days | Copart Sacramento → Los Angeles |
| Regional | 3–5 days | IAAI Phoenix → Dallas |
| Cross-country | 5–9 days | Manheim New Jersey → Los Angeles |
Most vehicles are picked up within 24–48 hours after auction release.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
✅ Research the vehicle’s title and condition carefully.
✅ Set a firm budget before bidding.
✅ Avoid emotional bidding wars.
✅ Schedule transport immediately after payment.
✅ Use FastCarShip for insured, door-to-door delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can anyone buy at an auto auction?
Yes, public auctions like Copart and IAAI allow individuals to register without a dealer license.
2. Are cars from auto auctions safe to drive?
Most are, but some may need repairs. Always read the condition report.
3. How do I transport my car after an auction?
Book a car shipping service through FastCarShip for reliable nationwide transport.
4. What payment methods do auctions accept?
Bank wire, cashier’s check, or payment via the auction’s online system.
5. Are auto auctions only for damaged vehicles?
No — many auctions include clean-title, low-mileage, and fleet-maintained cars.
Why Choose FastCarShip for Auction Vehicle Transport?
- 🏆 Specialized in auction pickups from Copart, IAAI, and Manheim
- 🚘 Fast dispatch — vehicles picked up within 24 hours
- 🛡️ Insured and licensed carriers
- 💬 Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
- 🏠 Door-to-door delivery anywhere in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Buying from an auto auction can save you thousands — and with FastCarShip, transporting your newly purchased vehicle is quick, insured, and hassle-free. Whether you’re a dealer buying in bulk or a first-time bidder, we’ll make sure your car arrives safely and on time.
👉 Get a free quote today to transport your auction vehicle with FastCarShip.com.
FastCarShip – Your trusted partner for auto auction transport in 2025.
