There are two reasons that you may be considering buying a truck from an auction as opposed to one of the hundreds of used truck dealers across the UK. The first is that the truck you are looking for is particularly rare and the only suitable candidates are all at auction, the second being a tendency towards thrift and the search for a good deal.

Research Truck Market Thoroughly

If you believe that the only truck available in the specification that you are looking for is at an auction, ask yourself the question if you have fully researched the market? Have you searched online at Truckpages.co.uk ? If so, then have you considered your specification? Perhaps a different make of truck or slightly different configuration of body may also suit? Try calling a couple of dealers who have a similar type of stock, if not exactly what you are looking for, as they may be able to get hold of what youa re looking for easily.

Saving Money at Auction

Buying a used heavy goods vehicle (hgv) at auction can be a great way to save money and find a reliable truck for your business. However, it can also be a risky and stressful process if you don’t know what to look for and how to bid. On these help pages, we will share some tips and advice on how to buy a used hgv at auction successfully.

Before the Auction

– Do your research. Find out what kind of truck you need, what features and specifications are important, and what the market value is for similar models. Check out the listings at Truckpages and perhaps make a couple of calls to dealers to get a handle on the prices available.

– Check the online auction catalogues. At Truckpages, we aggregate the inventory for most upcoming auctions – so you only need to check on one place. From this site you can contact the auction house directly for more information. If you can’t find what you are looking for here, then most auctions will provide an online inventory of the vehicles that will be sold, including their make, model, year, mileage, condition, and history. You can also request a vehicle inspection report (VIR) from the auction house, which will give you more information about the mechanical and cosmetic state of the truck.

– Inspect the vehicle. If possible, visit the auction site before the sale and inspect the vehicle yourself. Look for signs of damage, wear and tear, rust, leaks, and repairs. Check the engine, transmission, brakes, tyres, suspension, lights, and electrical systems. You can also bring a mechanic or a friend who knows about trucks to help you.

– Set your budget. Decide how much you are willing to spend on the truck and stick to it. Don’t forget to factor in other costs such as taxes, fees, insurance, registration, and maintenance. You can also apply for financing from your bank or a reputable lender if you need extra funds.

During the auction

– Register as a bidder. You will need to provide some personal and financial information and pay a deposit or a registration fee. You will also receive a bidder number or a paddle that you will use to bid on the vehicles.

– Follow the rules. Each auction house has its own rules and procedures that you need to follow. For example, some auctions may require you to pay in cash or by certified cheque, while others may accept credit cards or wire transfers. Some auctions may also have a reserve price or a minimum bid for each vehicle, which means that the seller can reject any bids below that amount.

– Bid smartly. Don’t get carried away by the excitement or the competition of the auction. Bid only on the vehicles that you have inspected and researched beforehand. Start with a low bid and increase it gradually until you reach your limit or win the vehicle. Don’t bid more than you can afford or more than the vehicle is worth.

– Check the paperwork. Once you win the bid, you will need to sign a contract and pay the balance of the purchase price. Make sure that you read and understand the terms and conditions of the sale before you sign anything. You should also receive a title or a bill of sale that proves your ownership of the vehicle.

After the auction

– Arrange transportation. Depending on where the auction is located and where you live, you may need to arrange transportation for your truck. You can either drive it yourself if it is roadworthy and registered or hire a professional transporter or a tow truck to deliver it to your destination.

– Perform maintenance. Even if the truck looks good and runs well, it is advisable to perform some basic maintenance before you put it to use. Change the oil and filter, check the fluid levels, replace the spark plugs and wires, inspect the belts and hoses, and test the battery and alternator. You should also check for any recalls or safety issues that may affect your model.

– Enjoy your truck. Congratulations! You have successfully bought a used lorry at auction. Now you can enjoy using it for your business or personal needs.