How It Works

The Kiefer Auction Process

Whether you're selling equipment, estate items, or commercial assets — or you're ready to bid on your next purchase — here's exactly what to expect from start to finish.

Selling at Auction

Your Step-by-Step Seller Journey

From the moment you contact us to the day your check arrives, here's exactly what happens when you sell with Kiefer Auctioneers.

1
Initial Contact

Reach Out to Our Team

Call, email, or fill out our online seller form to start the conversation. Tell us what you have — whether it's one item or an entire estate, we want to hear about it.

What you'll share:
  • Description and condition of items
  • Photos (phone photos are fine)
  • Preferred timeline for selling
  • Location of items
2
Item Review

We Review & Assess Your Items

Our team evaluates the submitted information and determines the best auction format for your items — live, online, or simulcast. We'll follow up within 24 hours with a plan.

We consider:
  • Market demand and current buyer pool
  • Item value and condition
  • Best auction format (live vs. online)
  • Timing and scheduling options
3
Agreement

Sign the Seller Agreement

We'll send you a straightforward seller agreement outlining the commission rate, auction date, and terms. No hidden fees. Everything is disclosed upfront before you commit.

Agreement covers:
  • Commission percentage
  • Reserve price options (if applicable)
  • Auction date and platform
  • Payment terms and timeline
4
Photography & Cataloging

Professional Photography & Item Cataloging

Our team visits (for live auctions) or works from your photos to create detailed, accurate item descriptions. Every lot is photographed, measured, and cataloged to attract serious buyers.

We prepare:
  • High-quality photos and accurate descriptions
  • Lot numbers and condition notes
  • Documentation like titles or manuals
5
Marketing & Promotion

We Market Your Auction

Your auction is actively promoted to our established buyer network and beyond. We use email campaigns, social media, and targeted outreach to drive maximum bidder participation.

Marketing channels:
  • Email blast to registered bidder database
  • Facebook & Instagram promotion
  • AuctionZip, Purple Wave, and industry listings
  • Direct outreach for high-value equipment
6
Preview & Inspection

Buyer Preview & Item Inspection

For live auctions, we schedule a preview period so buyers can inspect items and bid with confidence. Online auctions include detailed photo galleries and video walkthroughs.

7
Auction Day

The Auction Goes Live

Cory Kiefer takes the mic (or the online platform goes live) and the bidding begins. Real-time, competitive bidding drives the price to true market value.

Auction formats available:
  • Live on-site
  • Online-only timed auction
  • Simulcast (live + online simultaneously)
8
Buyer Payment & Pickup

Buyer Pays & Removes Items

All winning bidders pay immediately at the close of the auction. Items must be removed within the designated pickup window — typically within 3–7 days of auction close.

9
You Get Paid

Receive Your Proceeds

After all items are claimed and payments are cleared, we process your seller check — typically within 7–14 business days of auction close.

Settlement includes:
  • Itemized sale report showing every lot, winning bid, and the final net amount paid to you

Buying at Auction

Your Step-by-Step Buyer Guide

New to auctions or just new to Kiefer? Here's everything you need to know to find, bid on, and win items with confidence.

Step 1 — Register to Bid

Create a free bidder account on our auction platform. For live auctions, you can also register on-site the day of the event with a valid ID.

Pro tip: Register early to be notified of upcoming auctions that match your interests.

Step 2 — Browse the Catalog

Review the full item catalog before the auction. Each lot includes photos, descriptions, condition notes, and any available documentation.

Catalog is typically available 5–7 days before the auction close date.

Step 3 — Inspect Items

For live auctions, attend the preview period to inspect items in person. Online auctions feature detailed photo galleries and we can arrange video walkthroughs.

All items sell AS-IS. Preview is your opportunity to inspect — don't skip it.

Step 4 — Place Your Bids

Live auction: raise your bidder card. Online auction: enter your maximum bid. Simulcast auctions combine both formats.

Set a firm budget before the auction starts. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement.

Step 5 — Win the Lot

When bidding closes on a lot and you're the highest bidder, you've won. You'll receive confirmation of your winning lots immediately.

Step 6 — Pay for Your Items

Payment is due at the close of the auction. We accept cash, check, and major credit cards (a convenience fee may apply).

Bring your payment method ready. Item removal begins immediately after payment is confirmed.

Step 7 — Remove Your Items

You are responsible for loading and transporting your purchases. Most auctions have a 3–7 day pickup window.

Items not removed by the deadline may be subject to storage fees or forfeiture. Plan ahead.

Questions Before You Bid?

We're Here to Help First-Time Buyers

New to auctions? Call us before the event. We'll walk you through the process and make sure you're ready to bid with confidence.

Common Questions

Auction FAQs

Everything buyers and sellers most frequently ask us — answered clearly.

For Sellers

What types of items can I sell at auction?
We handle a wide range of items including farm & construction equipment, vehicles, estate contents, commercial/industrial assets, livestock, and real estate.
How much does it cost to sell at auction?
We charge a seller's commission that is a percentage of the final sale price. The exact rate depends on the type and quantity of items. This is always disclosed upfront in your seller agreement — there are no hidden fees.
Can I set a minimum price for my item?
Yes, reserve prices can be arranged for certain items. We'll discuss this during the seller consultation and outline it clearly in the agreement.
How soon will I receive my payment after the auction?
Seller proceeds are typically paid within 7–14 business days after the auction close, once all buyer payments have cleared.
What if my item doesn't sell?
In a live auction without a reserve, all items sell to the highest bidder. In online or reserve auctions, if the reserve isn't met, the item won't sell and will be returned to you.
Do I need to be present at the auction?
No. Once items are consigned and cataloged, you don't need to be present. We handle the entire auction on your behalf.

For Buyers

Do I need to register before bidding?
Yes, all bidders must register. For live auctions, you can register on-site with a valid ID. For online auctions, you must pre-register before bidding opens. Registration is free.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, and major credit cards. A convenience fee may apply to credit card transactions. Full payment is due at the close of the auction — no exceptions.
Can I inspect items before the auction?
Yes, and we strongly encourage it. Live auctions include a preview period. Online auctions include detailed photos and we can arrange video walkthroughs for high-value lots. All items sell AS-IS, WHERE-IS.
What does "AS-IS, WHERE-IS" mean?
All items are sold in their current condition with no warranty or guarantee. It's the buyer's responsibility to inspect items before bidding.
Who is responsible for loading and transporting items?
The buyer is responsible for all loading, transportation, and associated costs. You must bring appropriate equipment and enough help to safely remove your items within the pickup window.
Can I bid online if I can't attend in person?
Yes. Many of our auctions are available online or via simulcast (live + online simultaneously). You can bid from anywhere with an internet connection.

Still have questions? We're happy to help.

Contact Us