How to buy government surplus at auction

When federal agencies no longer need something, from a pickup truck to a pallet of monitors, much of it is sold to the public through online auctions at GSA Auctions. Anyone can bid. Here's how it works and what to check before you do.

The short version

1. Find a lot you like, here or on gsaauctions.gov.
2. Read the full listing: description, photos, location, inspection dates and removal terms.
3. Register for a free GSA Auctions account and place your bid online.
4. If you win, pay by the deadline in your award notice.
5. Pick the item up yourself, or send a carrier, within the removal window.

Things to know before you bid

• Everything is sold as-is. There's no warranty and no returns. If the listing offers an inspection, use it, especially for vehicles and equipment.
• Location matters more than price. You collect the item where it sits. A cheap truck three states away can cost more once you add travel or shipping.
• Removal has a deadline. Listings set a window for pickup, and you're responsible for loading and transport. Heavy items may need your own equipment or a rigging company.
• Closing rules vary. Some auctions stay open past the listed closing time while bidding is active. The listing explains its rules.
• Vehicles come with paperwork, not a title. Federal vehicles are usually sold with a Standard Form 97, which you take to your state's motor vehicle office to get a title.

How to bid smart

• Set your maximum before the last hour, including travel, fees and repairs, and stick to it.
• Look at what similar lots sold for to get a feel for prices.
• Check the number of bidders. A lot with no bids late in the auction is where bargains hide.
• Bulk lots ("lot of 40 chairs") can be cheap per item if you can resell or use the rest.

Other places government surplus is sold

GSA Auctions sells federal property. Many states, cities, school districts and police departments sell their own surplus through state surplus stores and other auction sites. Real estate, including the occasional lighthouse, is sold separately through GSA's real property program.

Taxpayer Treasures is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with GSA. Rules can change; the official listing and the GSA Auctions terms always apply.