Our Process
We’ve developed a proven process for bringing exceptional vehicles to market through online auctions. While every consignment is unique and circumstances may vary, this is how we typically guide our clients from initial conversation to successful sale.
1. Initial Consultation
Getting to Know Your Vehicle
We begin with a detailed conversation about your vehicle—its history, condition, unique features, and any documentation or service records you have. This helps us understand what makes your car special and what story it has to tell potential buyers.
No Obligation Discussion
This initial consultation is completely free and carries no obligation. We want to understand your goals and determine if auction consignment is the right path for your vehicle.
2. Research & Valuation
Market Analysis
Our team conducts comprehensive research on your vehicle, including:
- Recent comparable sales on major auction platforms
- Current market trends for your make and model
- Historical pricing data and value trends
- KBB and industry valuation resources
- Unique factors that may affect value
Setting Expectations
Based on our research, we provide our assessment of realistic market value and help you understand what to expect from the auction process. This honest evaluation ensures we’re aligned on goals before moving forward.
3. Agreement & Preparation
Paperwork & Deposit
Once we agree to move forward, we formalize our partnership:
- Review and sign consignment agreement
- Collect initial deposit to secure our services
- Establish reserve price based on research and your requirements
- Clarify timeline and expectations
Photography Scheduling
We coordinate a convenient time for our professional photography session. Depending on your location and the vehicle, this may take place at your location, our facility, or another agreed-upon venue.
4. Professional Photography & Videography
Comprehensive Visual Documentation
Our in-house team captures your vehicle from every angle:
- Exterior shots in optimal lighting
- Detailed interior photography
- Engine bay and undercarriage
- Any unique features or recent work
- Action shots when appropriate
- Professional video walkaround
What Buyers Want to See
We know exactly what serious bidders look for and ensure every important detail is documented thoroughly and honestly.
5. Content Creation & Editing
Professional Post-Production
Our team professionally edits all photography and video content, optimizing images for auction platform requirements while maintaining authenticity. We enhance clarity and presentation without misrepresenting condition.
Listing Development
We craft a comprehensive, detailed listing description that:
- Tells your vehicle’s complete story
- Highlights unique features and history
- Addresses common buyer questions proactively
- Provides accurate specifications and documentation
- Maintains transparency about condition
6. Auction House Submission
Platform Selection & Submission
Based on your vehicle’s characteristics and target market, we submit to the most appropriate auction platform:
- Bring a Trailer - Enthusiast classics, modified vehicles, unique finds
- Cars & Bids - Modern enthusiast cars (1980s-present)
- PCarMarket - Porsche specialists
We package all photos, videos, and listing content according to platform requirements and submit for review.
7. Listing Review & Approval
Auction House Draft
The auction house reviews our submission and prepares a draft listing. This typically includes:
- Formatted description
- Photo gallery arrangement
- Specifications and details
- Reserve price confirmation
Your Approval
We review the draft listing with you to ensure accuracy and completeness. Once you approve, we give the green light to the auction house to schedule your listing.
8. Auction Scheduling
Going Live
The auction house schedules your vehicle in their calendar, typically providing several days’ notice before the listing goes live. Auctions generally run for seven days, ending on a specific day and time.
Pre-Auction Preparation
Before your auction begins, we ensure all documentation is ready and prepare for active monitoring throughout the week.
9. Active Auction Period
Real-Time Management
Throughout the seven-day auction period, we:
- Monitor bidding activity and engagement metrics
- Answer all questions from potential bidders promptly and thoroughly
- Provide updates to you on auction progress
- Consult with you when questions require owner input or additional information
- Respond to comments to build buyer confidence
Communication
We serve as the primary point of contact during the auction, handling routine questions ourselves while keeping you informed of significant developments.
10. Auction Conclusion
If Reserve Is Met
Winner Selected
When bidding meets or exceeds your reserve price, the highest bidder wins:
- Auction platform notifies all parties
- Winning bidder and seller information is exchanged
- Payment and delivery arrangements begin
- We assist with coordination and completion
If Reserve Is Not Met
Post-Auction Negotiation
When the reserve price isn’t reached, we have several options:
Option 1: Offer to High Bidder
We can offer the vehicle to the highest bidder at a negotiated price up to (but not exceeding) the reserve amount. Many successful sales happen through this post-auction negotiation.
Option 2: Relist on Same Platform
With adjustments to reserve, description, or timing, we can relist on the same platform when market conditions are more favorable.
Option 3: Alternative Platforms
We may recommend trying a different auction platform that better suits your vehicle or has a different buyer demographic.
Option 4: Private Sale Assistance
Leveraging the exposure from the auction, we can help facilitate private sale inquiries that came in during the listing period.
Option 5: Strategic Consultation
We discuss market feedback from the auction and help you decide on the best path forward, whether that’s adjusting expectations, making improvements to the vehicle, or pursuing alternative sales channels.
11. Post-Sale Coordination
Facilitating Completion
Once a sale is agreed upon (whether during auction or post-auction negotiation):
- Payment Processing - Coordinating secure payment per platform requirements
- Title & Documentation - Ensuring proper paperwork transfer
- Logistics Support - Helping arrange transportation if needed
- Communication Bridge - Facilitating smooth seller-buyer interaction
Our Commission
Our fee is earned upon successful completion of the sale and is clearly outlined in the consignment agreement.
Timeline Expectations
Typical Timeline from Start to Auction:
- Initial consultation: 1 day
- Research & agreement: 1-3 days
- Photography scheduling: 3-7 days (based on availability)
- Photo shoot & editing: 3-5 days
- Listing creation & submission: 2-3 days
- Auction house review & approval: 3-7 days
- Auction scheduling wait: Varies by platform (1-4 weeks)
- Active auction period: 7 days
Total Time: Typically 3-6 weeks from agreement to auction conclusion, though this can vary based on scheduling availability and platform timelines.
Our Commitment
Throughout this entire process, we’re committed to:
- Transparency - Honest communication at every stage
- Professionalism - High-quality presentation of your vehicle
- Responsiveness - Timely answers to your questions
- Expertise - Leveraging our experience for best results
- Partnership - Working collaboratively toward your goals
Exceptions & Flexibility
While this represents our standard process, we understand that every vehicle and situation is unique. We’re happy to adapt our approach to accommodate special circumstances, timing requirements, or unique aspects of your consignment.
Ready to get started? Contact us to discuss your vehicle and begin the consignment process.