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The first time you watch horse auctions, it feels like stepping into a movie scene. The auction ring is buzzing. Hooves tap the ground. The auctioneer talks fast like they are rapping. People raise their hands in quick flashes. And in the middle of it all, a horse walks in that could be someone’s next trail buddy, ranch partner, or future competition star.

That excitement is exactly why so many people are curious about horse auctions. Some buyers want an affordable horse. Some are looking for a well-trained ride. Others are sellers who want to reach serious buyers fast.

But before you jump in, you probably have the same questions everyone has:

• How do horse auctions work?
• How much are horses at auction?
• How do you buy a horse at auction without making a mistake?
• And with online bidding becoming more common, people also ask: Are online horse auctions legit?

This article breaks it all down in simple words. You will learn what happens at a horse auction, what to look for before bidding, and how to stay confident whether you are buying or selling.

How Do Horse Auctions Work?

A horse auction is basically a public sale where horses are sold to the highest bidder. Some auctions are small and local. Others are large events with buyers coming from different states or provinces. You can find auctions for all types of horses, including ranch horses, riding horses, show horses, and even young horses that still need training.

Here is how a typical horse auction works.

Step 1: Horses Arrive and Get Checked In

Before the auction starts, horses are brought to the auction location. Staff check them in and assign each horse a lot number. That number is used in the catalog and during bidding.

Some auctions also record basic details like:

Age, breed, color, and sex (mare, gelding, stallion)

Step 2: Buyers Preview the Horses

This is one of the most important parts. Before any bidding happens, buyers get time to walk around and see the horses.

Depending on the auction, you might be able to:

• Watch the horse being led
• See the horse under saddle (if it is a riding horse)
• Ask questions about training, behavior, and health
• Review paperwork if available

This preview time is your chance to judge the horse with your own eyes. Once the bidding starts, decisions happen fast.

Step 3: Buyer Registration Happens

If you want to bid, you must register first. This usually means:

• Showing a valid ID
• Giving your contact details
• Getting a bidder number

Some auctions may ask for a deposit or credit card details. This helps prevent fake bidders and keeps the sale smooth.

Step 4: The Horse Enters the Auction Ring

When it is time, the horse is brought into the ring. The auctioneer announces the lot number and starts calling bids. The price goes up as people bid against each other. The auctioneer controls the pace, and it can move quickly.

Step 5: The Horse Sells to the Highest Bidder

When bidding stops, the auctioneer says “Sold!” and the highest bidder wins. That buyer is now responsible for payment and pickup rules.

Step 6: Payment and Paperwork

After winning a bid, the buyer pays the auction office. Payment methods can include Cash, Debit or credit card, Bank transfer, Certified check (depending on the auction).

Some auctions charge extra fees like a buyer’s premium. That is an added percentage on top of the winning bid. Always ask about this before bidding.

Step 7: Pickup and Transport

Once payment is done, the buyer arranges transport. Some auctions require horses to be picked up within a set time.

If you are buying across the border, you may need extra paperwork for transport. Many buyers also plan ahead by lining up a trailer or horse shipper before they bid.

One Important Detail: Many Horses Are Sold “As-Is”

A lot of auctions sell horses “as-is,” which means the buyer accepts the horse in its current condition. The auction may not guarantee health, soundness, or training level unless clearly stated.

That is why previewing and asking questions matters so much.

How Much Are Horses at Auction?

This is the question everyone wants answered before they even step into the auction barn:

How much are horses at auction?

And the follow-up is just as important: how much do horses sell for at auction once bidding starts and emotions kick in?

The honest answer is: horse auction prices can range from very low to very high, depending on the horse and the type of auction. Some horses sell for a few hundred dollars, while others can sell for thousands, and in special performance auctions, even much more.

Horse Category	Price Range (USD)	Notes
Loose or “no catalogue” horses	$200 – $1,500	The majority of loose horses in an auction report sold in this lower range.
General riding horses (cataloged)	$3,000 – $9,000	Many average and mid-quality riding horses without specialty training fall here.
Catalog sale averages	~$6,000 – $9,300	Average of the top 50 and top 100 catalog horses in a major US sale.
Mid-level performance horses	$12,000 – $30,000	Shown in broader sale ranges and average results.
High-value riding/competition horses	$30,000 – $38,500	Top horses at select auctions often sell in this bracket.
Premium sale results	$48,000 – $62,000+	Results from specialized sales with top sellers.

To keep it simple, here are the biggest reasons prices change so much.

The Horse’s Training Level (This is a Big One)

Training usually affects price more than anything else.

A horse that is:

• Calm under saddle
• Easy to catch and handle
• Comfortable on trails
• Safe around people

…will almost always sell for more than a horse that is green (meaning not fully trained) or nervous.

In many auctions, a “ready-to-ride” horse often gets more attention because buyers want something they can enjoy right away.

Age Matters More Than People Think

Age plays a huge role in how much horses sell for at auction.

In general:

• Very young horses may be cheaper if they are untrained
• Middle-aged horses (often in their best working years) can sell higher
• Older horses can vary a lot depending on health and use

A quiet older horse with good manners can still sell well if it is safe and sound.

Health, Soundness, and Condition

Buyers pay close attention to the horse’s body condition and movement.

A horse may sell for less if it looks:

• Too thin or poorly cared for
• Lame or stiff while walking
• Stressed or hard to handle

Even if a horse is beautiful, if it moves poorly in the ring, buyers often hesitate.

Breed, Size, and “Type” of Horse

Some horse types are simply in higher demand.

For example:

• Ranch and trail horses often attract strong bidding
• Kid-safe horses usually sell quickly
• Performance horses can sell higher depending on training

Breed can matter too, but it depends on the region and what buyers are looking for.

The Auction Type Makes a Difference

Not all auctions are the same.

A local weekly auction may have lower prices because:

• Buyers are mostly local
• Horses may be more mixed in quality
• Some horses are sold quickly with less marketing

A specialty auction (like a trained horse sale) often has higher prices because:

• Horses are more prepared
• Sellers promote them more
• Buyers come ready to spend

How to Buy a Horse at Auction Without Regret

Buying a horse at auction can feel exciting, but it can also feel rushed. The ring moves fast, people bid quickly, and it is easy to get caught up in the moment. The good news is this: you can absolutely find a great horse at auction if you go in with a smart plan.

If you are wondering how to buy a horse at auction without making a costly mistake, this section will help you stay calm, focused, and confident.

Start With a Clear Goal (What Kind of Horse Do You Actually Need?)

Before you even arrive, ask yourself:

• Are you looking for a trail horse?
• A kid-safe horse?
• A ranch horse?
• A project horse to train?
• A horse for barrel racing, jumping, or shows?

A common regret happens when someone buys a horse that looks impressive, but does not match their riding level or lifestyle. A high-energy performance horse might be amazing, but not ideal for a beginner who just wants quiet weekend rides.

Set a Budget That Includes the Hidden Costs

Many people only think about the bid price, but that is not the full cost.

Your real budget should include:

• Transport (trailer or shipping)
• Vet check after purchase
• Boarding or pasture setup
• Feed and basic care
• Tack (if you do not already have it)

It is easy to think you got a “cheap horse,” then realize the extra costs add up quickly.

A simple rule: decide your max bid before bidding starts, and do not go above it.

Arrive Early and Watch Before You Bid

If possible, go early and spend time watching how the auction works.

Pay attention to:

• How fast the auctioneer moves
• How people signal bids
• How horses behave in the ring
• How much prices jump between bids

Watching a few lots first gives you a feel for the pace. It also helps you avoid panic bidding.

Ask Questions, Even if You Feel Shy

Some buyers stay quiet because they do not want to look new. But asking questions is smart. Not every auction will have full details, but even small answers help you decide.

Bring a Horse-Smart Friend if You Can

This is one of the best ways to avoid regret.

A friend, trainer, or experienced horse person can spot problems you might miss, like: Signs of lameness, Bad behavior patterns, Poor handling, or Stress signals.

Two sets of eyes are always better than one, when decisions happen fast.

Understand “As-Is” Sales Before You Bid

Many horses are sold “as-is,” which means once you buy it, it is yours. No returns.

That is why you should never bid on a horse you have not seen, unless the auction has strong protections and clear proof of training and health.

Use a Smart Bidding Strategy (Avoid the Bidding War Trap)

This is where many regrets happen.

Tips to stay in control:

• Do not bid too early if you are unsure
• Let others bid first and see where the price goes
• Bid only if the horse truly fits your goal
• Stop if the price crosses your max limit

It is easy to think, “Just one more bid,” and suddenly you have overpaid.

Remember: another horse will always come along.

Are Online Horse Auctions Legit? What to Know Before You Bid

Online horse auctions are growing fast for buyers who want more choices than local barns can offer. Still, it’s smart to ask: are online horse auctions legit? The answer is yes, many are, but you need to know what a trustworthy listing looks like.

A legit online horse auction should include clear, recent videos showing the horse walking, trotting, and being handled. If the horse is rideable, there should be riding footage that shows how it behaves, not just a few edited highlights. Good listings also explain the horse’s age, training level, temperament, and any known issues in plain words.

Paperwork matters too. Many buyers look for a negative Coggins test, and depending on travel, a health certificate may be required. A professional auction will clearly explain what documents are included and what the buyer must arrange.

The bidding process should feel organized, with visible bid history, clear end times, and payment rules inside the platform. If a seller pushes you to pay outside the system or the rules feel confusing, that’s a red flag.

To buy safely, watch videos carefully, ask for extra clips if needed, and avoid listings that rely on hype instead of proof.

Why Modern Horse Auctions Are Moving Online

Horse auctions used to be all about one place, one day, and whoever could show up in person. If you missed it, you missed it. That old style is changing fast. Today, the auction ring is no longer just a physical space. It’s becoming a digital marketplace where buyers can bid from anywhere, and sellers can reach far more people than ever before.

For buyers, online auctions mean more choice. Instead of settling for whatever shows up locally, you can browse horses across different states and provinces. That opens the door to better matches, whether you want a calm trail horse, a ranch partner, or a trained performance horse. Online bidding also gives you time to review videos, read descriptions, and compare listings before making a decision, which can feel less rushed than bidding in a loud auction barn.

For sellers, moving online can be a major advantage because it increases competition. More bidders usually means stronger final prices. It also makes it easier to market a horse with photos, videos, and clear details that buyers can access anytime. A well-presented listing can create interest days before bidding even starts.

This is where the right online auction software becomes a game-changer. Instead of managing bids manually, professional auction platforms help run timed auctions smoothly, organize listings, handle bidder registration, and keep the entire process clear and structured. If you’re building a serious auction business, using the right tools matters.

How to Sell a Horse at Auction?

Auctions can create competition, and competition often leads to better prices. But the horses that sell well are usually the ones that are prepared well. A rushed, unclear sale is where sellers lose money and buyers lose trust.

Start by choosing the right auction for your horse. Some auctions focus on ranch horses, some specialize in performance horses, and others are general sales. Matching your horse to the right audience increases your chances of a strong final bid. A calm trail horse might do better in a family-friendly sale, while a trained barrel or rope horse may attract higher bidders at a performance auction.

Next, prepare your horse so it looks and behaves its best. Basic grooming, clean hooves, and good body condition make a big difference. If your horse is trained to ride, make sure it has been ridden recently and is comfortable being handled in busy environments. Buyers pay close attention to attitude, not just looks.

Then focus on your listing details. Be honest and clear about age, training, temperament, and any issues. Strong photos and a simple video showing movement, handling, and riding can increase buyer confidence. If you have paperwork like registration documents or a recent Coggins test, mention it clearly.

Finally, set realistic expectations. Auctions move quickly, and prices depend on demand that day. The best way to protect your sale is to present your horse clearly, price it fairly, and make it easy for buyers to trust what they’re bidding on.

The Best Auctions Don’t Just Sell Horses, They Build Trust

A successful horse auction is not only about getting bids. It’s about making buyers feel confident enough to bid high. Buyers are more careful than ever when they are purchasing online or buying from a seller they have never met. That’s why the best auctions focus on trust just as much as price.

Trust starts with clear listings. Buyers want accurate descriptions, recent videos, and honest details about training, temperament, and health. But trust also depends on how the auction runs. If the bidding process feels confusing, the payment rules are unclear, or the platform looks outdated, buyers hesitate. And when buyers hesitate, prices drop.

This is where strong auction marketplace software becomes a major advantage. Instead of running everything manually, professional software helps auction owners manage listings, organize bidder registrations, and keep bidding fair and transparent. Buyers can see the structure, understand the rules, and participate with confidence. Sellers benefit too, because a smooth auction experience attracts more bidders and encourages stronger competition.

In short, modern auctions win when the process feels secure, organized, and easy to follow. The horses may be the stars, but the platform is the stage, and the right stage can lift every sale.

Final Thoughts: Buying and Selling Horses at Auction With Confidence

For buyers, confidence comes from staying calm, inspecting horses carefully, watching videos closely, and sticking to a budget. The best deals usually go to people who plan ahead instead of bidding on emotion. For sellers, success comes from preparation, honesty, and clear presentation. A well-groomed horse with a strong listing and real proof of training will always attract more serious bidders.

As auctions continue shifting online, both buyers and sellers benefit from better access, wider reach, and more structured bidding. When the process is transparent and organized, trust grows, and better sales follow. Whether you’re bidding on your next riding partner or listing a horse for the right audience, auctions can work in your favor when you approach them with knowledge, patience, and the right strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do horse auctions work?

Horses are sold to the highest bidder after buyers register and bid in person or online. Most sales are “as-is,” so it’s important to inspect the horse and read the listing carefully.

How much are horses at auction in the US and Canada?

Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for untrained or unknown horses to several thousand for safe, trained riding horses. Specialty and performance horses can sell for much more depending on demand and training.

How do I buy a horse at auction without regret?

Arrive early, preview the horse, watch how it moves, and set a firm budget before bidding starts. If possible, bring an experienced horse person and plan transport ahead of time.

How do I sell a horse at auction successfully?

Present the horse well with clear photos, recent videos, and honest details about training and temperament. Choosing the right auction type and having paperwork ready can help attract stronger bids.

Are online horse auctions legit?

Many are legitimate when they provide real videos, clear bidding rules, and secure payment processes. Avoid listings with vague details, no recent footage, or pressure to pay outside the platform.

Think of a sealed evidence room stacked with silent witnesses of countless untold stories. A vintage revolver that was once part of a detective’s holster. A weapon that was confiscated during the pursuit of a criminal and later recovered—items that eventually make their way into the police firearm auction for collectors and enthusiasts. And somewhere in that corner, you may even find an antique firearms auction treasure: a historic piece that has lived through more chapters of history than any book could ever capture.

After a while, these guns will no longer be a part of the journey of law enforcement. But instead of just being left there to gather dust, a lot of them are given an interesting new life through police firearm auction events. To the enthusiasts, resellers, and collectors, these auctions are treasure chests waiting to be unlocked.

However, along with the thrill, there arises a question of great concern: Can firearms be auctioned off legally? And in that case, who exactly is allowed to conduct these sales?

The solutions show a surprising world where old ways meet new means, and where even the most modest police surplus firearms can result in heavy bids. Numerous departments are resorting to online means. Advanced online auction software is changing the process through which guns are being offered to the public. It makes the purchasing experience more secure, transparent, and competitive than ever before.

Let’s find out what happens to those once-holstered heroes that end up in the hands of eager bidders?

Can Firearms Be Auctioned Off? The Laws and Logic Behind It

Short answer: Yes, firearms can be auctioned off.

Long answer: It’s a carefully regulated process filled with legal checkpoints.

Local police force law enforcement agencies are the primary sources of firearms that they obtain in three major ways:

• Seizures and forfeitures of criminal property
• Leftover or abandoned property
• Government surplus or retirement from active service

Instead of putting them away indefinitely (or destroying valuable assets), some departments decide to sell off these guns to raise money for community projects, the purchase of new equipment, and the running of the department. When done legally and ethically, it is a win-win situation.

However, that is the main point: the legal framework.

What keeps public safety as the highest priority is the following:

• The resale must be under the supervision of holders of Federal Firearms License (FFL)
• Every purchaser has to go through background checks
• State regulations bring in more control
• The records of transfers are very detailed

Such a whole procedure is aimed at preventing the firearms that have been sold from going back to the market dangerously. Therefore, when you hear of police firearm auctions, you should know that they are very far from being the wild west. Present-day compliance means and verification steps make every sale traceable.

A lot of these auctions have transitioned online, where properly managed platforms maintain the same compliance standards digitally. This shift elevates transparency and allows enthusiasts to participate in rare opportunities previously locked behind local laws.

Can an Auctioneer Sell Firearms at Auction? What the Law Allows

Another commonly asked question: Can an auctioneer sell firearms at auction?

Yes… but the answer is not that any auctioneer can simply take the gavel and a table full of pistols and start selling.

Firearm auctions have to comply with:

• A licensed Federal Firearms Licensee leading the activities
• Strict record-keeping as well as identity verification
• Documentation of the ownership transfer to the new owner
• Compliance with both federal and local firearm laws

Auctioneers have two options:

• To get a Federal Firearm License (FFL) themselves, or
• To collaborate with an FFL to legally complete the transaction

If the rules are not followed, the violators can be charged with serious criminal offenses. Which is exactly why many reputable auctioneers are ditching outdated spreadsheets and paperwork nightmares in favor of digital solutions.

A modern online firearm auction site helps automate compliance, streamline buyer authentication, and securely manage every step from listing through transfer.

Even experienced professionals are switching to online auction software that takes care of the documentation, legal flow, and inventory in one place. If someone is serious about entering this market, having an online website is a must.

Where Is the Best Place to Auction a Firearm? Offline vs Online

The excitement of a live, face-to-face auction can be compared to entering the scene of an action film. Quickness. Intense bidding. A room full of collectors watching each other as if they were rivals at poker. It remains a valid and thrilling option. However, is it the best one?

When asking where is the best place to auction a firearm, things have now changed drastically. Nowadays, online firearm auction sites are the winners of the battle because of their three major advantages:

• More bidders: Your small local crowd turns into a target audience across the country.
• Higher final prices: The more the competition, the better the bids. It is just basic economics wearing tactical boots.
• Comfort and compliance: Bidders can join a session from wherever they are, while the digital systems take care of the paperwork.

Besides that, for such valuable things as antique firearms auction listings, online platforms can help in getting discovered by collectors from all over the world. A very rare cavalry revolver from the 1800s should not be only accessible for bidders who live within 20 miles of a county fairground.

The future is clear: when firearms move online, opportunity follows.

From Badge to Bidding: How Police Firearm Auctions Actually Work

Curiosity is half the excitement. What exactly happens after a firearm is taken from police custody and before it is shown on the auction page? The following is the process:

• Verification and safety inspection: Firearms are looked over, documented, and cleared for handing over to another party.
• Condition rating: From “my lovely detective companion” to “almost like new,” each firearm expresses its tale through its usage.
• Cataloging of detailed descriptions: Be it modern tactical gear or rare antique handiwork, purchasers are fully informed of what they are bidding on.
• Auction listing and promotion: Here is where quality photography and accurate representation come to the forefront.
• Auction day or continuous bidding period: The online gathering takes place. The bidding reaches new heights.
• Compliance-based transfer: It is only after a set of legal checks that the final handover of ownership takes place.

A journey like this one is founded upon authenticity, openness, and safety. And as usual, technology is coming to each stage to make the work less, quicker, and more ​‍​‌‍​‍‌efficient.

Digital Revolution: Why Online Auctions—From Police Firearm Auctions to Antique Firearms Auctions—Are Taking Over

Firearm auctions have gone through a digital revolution. What buyers want is:

• The thrill of real-time bidding
• High-quality video of the product
• Secure verification of identity and payment
• Participation from any location

Enter the powerhouse: online auction software. With the right tools, auctioneers can:

• Completely automate the creation of compliance documents
• Monitor both the income and the activity of the bidders
• Prevent fraudulent histories
• Attract more people to the auction by the use of brilliant marketing

The leading auction marketplace software used by most auctioneers is GetUltimateAuction. It handles everything from credit-card capture at registration, automatic payment holds when bids are placed, and full integration with payment gateways like Stripe. It’s built on WordPress and allows you to launch your own branded site with pre-built templates, proxy bidding, anti-sniping features, and buyer-verification workflows.

When it comes to a firearm auction, compliance, trust, bidder identity, and secure payments are the things that cannot be compromised. Hence, the software is the factor that separates “just another sale” from “premium sale with legal engines humming in the background”.

Imagine listing seized police inventory or antique firearms, opening your marketplace globally, and sitting back while the system handles all the flows. The auctioneers who embrace this tech are already reducing manual risk, expanding reach, and boosting final bid prices.

👉 Would you like to know more? Visit this page: https://getultimateauction.com/online-auction-software/

Running Your Own Firearm Auction: Why Software Matters More Than Ever

This is where technology stops being optional. Auctioneers and police departments increasingly ask: “How do we carry out operations legally, efficiently, and in a competitive manner?”

The solution is specialized auction marketplace software that takes care of the following:

• Identification of bidders
• Automated and ATF-compliant form processing
• Easy creation and management of auction listings
• Fraud prevention and auction security measures
• Features for real-time bidding
• Fully managed payment and reporting

This is where your well-chosen auction marketplace software becomes the catapult. By creating a dedicated, fully branded online platform, you transform what would be a small regional antique firearms auction into a spotlight event. With features like automated notifications, watch-lists, “follow this lot” alerts, proxy bids, and credit-card holds built in, bidders feel safe, engaged, and ready to play.

Align your platform with software that manages everything silently from behind the curtain — bidder registration to payment processing to listing management. Give collectors the confidence to bid fiercely and high, knowing everything is transparent and backed by tech-driven safeguards.

So don’t just wait for the gavel. Build the launchpad. Those who embrace innovation will dominate the future of firearm auctions.

Safety, Responsibility, and Ethical Resale in Police Firearm Auction and Antique Firearms Auction Markets

The concept of guns being passed from one person to another can make some individuals nervous. That’s understandable. But regulated auctions operate under the watchful eyes of both federal law and advanced technology.

Digital auction software enhances:

• Traceability
• Secure chain of custody
• Verified ownership
• Controlled firearm distribution

It is a carefully regulated marketplace that ensures guns remain in the hands of responsible people.

Conclusion: The New Frontier of Firearm Auctions — From Police Firearm Auction to Antique Firearms Auction Markets

Police firearm auctions and antique gun sales are not only about passing old steel into new hands. They are the means of preserving the past, supporting community funds, and ensuring that guns are circulated responsibly. As collectors, resellers, and agencies looking for a wider reach and strict compliance, the move to digital platforms seems to be the only way left.

Present-day means such as advanced online auction software grant auctioneers the power to elevate the bids and put in place automated legal safeguards. From the evidence room obscurity to the national bidding excitement, the future is more secure for firearm auctions. The next great find might already be live online, waiting for its highest bidder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are police firearm auctions and why are they held?

Police firearm auctions sell seized, unclaimed, or surplus guns legally, helping law enforcement recover storage costs and fund department operations.

Are the firearms sold at police auctions safe and tested?

Yes, each firearm undergoes serial verification, background checks, and safety inspections before public auction to ensure compliance and proper functionality.

How can someone participate in an online police firearm auction?

Participants must register on approved auction platforms, verify identification, accept firearm laws, and place secure bids during the live auction.

What Is Openlane?

What is Openlane? It’s an online auction platform where car dealers can shop and sell without leaving their desks. As we found on their official site, it’s built for licensed dealers in the US, Canada, and Europe to trade wholesale used cars. Many ask, ‘Is Openlane legit?’ — yes, it’s a trusted marketplace designed specifically for professional dealers.

The platform lists thousands of vehicles sourced from off-lease returns or dealer trade-ins. They are listed with complete condition reports and manually captured photos. They also offer an “As Described” guarantee, which adds more reliability when buying. Dealers can join timed auctions or shop 24/7 using their always-open listings. So, overall it’s an all-in-one platform where dealers handle most of their wholesale needs easily.

Is Openlane Legit?

One of the first questions that comes to every dealer’s mind is, “Is Openlane really legit?” Based on what we saw, the answer is yes. The platform is run by Openlane Inc., formerly KAR Auction Services. It is a reliable and pretty old company in the remarketing world.

As we dug into their press releases, we learned they sold 1.3 million vehicles in 2022 and had over $23 billion in used car transactions. That’s not a small operation to run without having an excellent team. They also work with over 50,000 dealers, OEMs, rental companies, and fleet operators. 

In our opinion, numbers like these don’t happen unless a company is both trusted and capable. So if you are worried about credibility, Openlane has made a name for itself and earned its place.

Who Owns Openlane Auction?

Here’s something interesting we found: Openlane wasn’t always called that. The company was originally KAR Auction Services and it acquired the Openlane startup back in 2011. Peter Kelly is the co-founder of original Openlane and now the CEO of the entire operation.

In 2023, KAR decided to drop its old name and rebrand everything under the Openlane banner. From what we’ve seen, the change positioned themselves as a global online platform for wholesale vehicles. The same leadership has been involved since the early days give dealers extra confidence that the platform’s direction is in pretty good hands.

What is Openlane? Is Openlane Legit? A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Openlane

Let’s walk through using Openlane because it’s actually pretty straightforward with easy steps. 

1. Log in and click Find Cars to narrow down your search using filters. You can also save your searches for viewing them at a later time. 
2. Now suppose you have found the vehicle you like. Then take a good look at all the details first. Then place your bid for the vehicle and you can’t take it back.
3. You can also choose to bid with the Bid Agent. This will automatically bid up to your maximum amount while keeping your visible bid low. If you are confident about the purchase, go for a direct maximum bid. It shows your full amount right away. 
4. If you are the highest bidder for the vehicle, you’ll hear back from the seller within two working days.
5. Once the deal is confirmed by both the parties, you will get 24 hours to accept it.
6. Now you can choose whether to pick it up yourself or get delivered to your location.
7. The final step is to make your payment in about 48 hours. Then handle pickup with the usual paperwork like damage reports and delivery certificates.

Openlane Reviews From Dealers: What They’re Saying

Here’s what dealers are telling us about working with Openlane. It’s a mixed bag with both positive as well as negative reviews. The Openlane reviews on Trustpilot have some buyers who warn about condition reports not matching reality:

“Paid $18,135 … clearly had a large amount of bondo … none of this was listed … DO NOT TRUST THIS AUCTION PLATFORM!”

On the upside, some praise specific Openlane team members:

“Manuel Gonzalez Somoza … always helps … very friendly & humble.”

So, in our view: Openlane offers big reach and useful tools. But it always pays to double-check vehicle reports and have clear expectations.

Openlane Auction Reviews: What is Openlane and How Fair is the Bidding?

Are you curious to know how fair the auction experience feels on Openlane? From what we’ve seen, they have some excellent features to help you bid. This is useful in conditions where the competition gets high for certain cars.

1. You’ve got options like Bid Agent to manage your bids quietly or go with a direct maximum bid to make a bold move.
   
2. They also offer the Ultimo feature if you’re the highest bidder. You get a final 5 minute chance to raise your offer. It’s a good safeguard if someone tries to outbid you at the last second.
   
3. Openlane website is transparent as we noticed they offer a bidding advisor. This uses past auction data to guide what sellers may accept.

In our take: the bidding tools are good if you use them wisely. But it’s still smart to be ready, steady, and check the data before making your final bid.

Openlane Customer Service Review

Customer service is what can actually make or break your experience with any online auction. We took a closer look at how Openlane handles dealer support.

From what we saw, they offer multiple contact points for customer service. They take queries via telephone, email, and website help tickets. On their North American site, there’s even a dedicated dealer support number for quicker assistance. That’s the good part for any company who takes pride in handling their client queries.

However, reviews online have had a mixed response. Some dealers have praised individual reps for going above and beyond. Others mention long wait times, slow responses, or situations where they felt the rep was just reading from a script.

One recurring theme is that service seems more helpful when dealing with billing or account setup issues. On the other hand, it is less so when it comes to disputes about vehicle condition or post-sale problems. That’s worth noting if your business relies on fast resolutions.

Want to know our take? It’s a support system that works for general queries and tech help. But you’ll need to keep your own paper trail and photos for any serious claims after the purchase is complete.

Online Auction Software Options For Car Dealers

Now, here’s where we shift gears. Are you a dealer who’s tired of relying upon big platforms like Openlane? Now you can start running your own branded auction website. That’s exactly what GetUltimateAuction offers.

Here’s how we stand out as the best auction marketplace software globally:

• Fully Branded Platform : You get your own domain, your own colors, and your own branding. So, the buyers are going to see you, not a third-party logo.
  
• Multiple Auction Formats: Timed auctions, reserve price auctions, and even “Buy Now” listings. So you’re not locked into one way of selling for sure.
  
• Detailed Vehicle Listings: Upload unlimited photos, condition notes, and inspection PDFs as well. Everything’s in your total control.
  
• Real-Time Bidding: Buyers see updates instantly without refreshing. It’s a real-time experience for them and more competition for your listings.
  
• Dealer & Buyer Management: You can approve or block buyers you want and set fees. It’s also possible to manage payments through integrated gateways.
  
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Your site works on phones and tablets without extra apps.
  
• No Middleman Cuts: You control your fees and keep 100% of your selling price.
  

From our perspective, this is huge for dealers who already have a customer base or work with repeat buyers. Instead of sending them to Openlane (and competing with thousands of other dealers), you bring them to your platform.

Our car auction software has all the setup assistance and ongoing support. So even if you’re not tech-savvy, you can still run your own auction site without any issues. In short, it’s not about replacing Openlane but about building a direct sales channel of your own.

Should You Use Openlane for Your Car Business?

So, the ultimate question is if it’s worth using Openlane? Based on what we’ve seen, it’s a good platform in wholesale car trading. The reach is massive and the platform is practical. It’s tough to compete with when it comes to sourcing large volumes of vehicles across borders.

That said, no platform is perfect. Fees, competition, and the occasional mismatch between condition reports and reality do happen. You’ll also be one dealer among thousands, so standing out is tricky.

That’s why we think a mixed strategy makes sense. Use Openlane for its reach and variety, but also consider having your own auction site. That way, you can tap into the big marketplace and still build your own buyer base where you set the rules.

So, what are you waiting for? Try a free demo of the best car auction software used by thousands of car dealers.

What is Openlane and Is Openlane Legit? Explore Advanced Features in Our Car Auction Software

Creating auction listings just got easier. With our new VIN Decode (NHTSA API) feature, you no longer need to type every detail manually.

Smart VIN Decode (NHTSA API)

No more manual entry! With the VIN Decode feature integrated into our Car Auction Software, simply enter a 17-digit VIN and click “Lookup VIN” — the system will instantly auto-fill all key vehicle details such as:

• Make, Model, Year
• Engine type, Cylinders, Fuel type, Transmission, Drive type
• Vehicle class, Body style, Color, Mileage

Benefits: Saves time, eliminates errors, ensures consistency, and builds buyer trust with complete and accurate specs.

For Admin:

For Seller:

Auto Background Remove Feature (Powered by Pixelcut API)

High-quality vehicle photos play a major role in attracting buyers. To make this easier, we’ve integrated Pixelcut’s Auto Background Removal feature directly into our software.

• Seller Side: When sellers upload car images, the background is automatically removed for a cleaner, more professional look.
• Admin Side: Admins have the option to manually remove backgrounds. While uploading interior or exterior photos, simply click on the Edit > Remove Background option, and the background will be cleared instantly.

This ensures that all car images in your auction listings look polished and stand out to buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a licensed dealer to use Openlane?

Yes, Openlane is strictly for licensed dealers and fleet operators. Retail customers can’t sign up. This keeps the platform focused on wholesale transactions alone.

How does payment work after winning an Openlane auction?

You’ll have about 48 hours to make payment. Payments are handled through the platform, and you can choose pickup or arrange delivery.

Can I run my own auctions alongside using Openlane?

Absolutely. In fact, many dealers do exactly that by using car auction software. You can set the rules and keep the commission to yourself.

What if a car I bought on Openlane doesn’t match the condition report?

Openlane has dispute processes but you’ll need to act quickly. It should be ideally within 24 hours of delivery or pickup. Without solid evidence like photos, videos, and inspection documents, it’s pretty hard to win a claim.

Is GetUltimateAuction only for large dealerships?

Not at all. It works for single-location dealers just as well as bigger groups. The platform scales to your needs, so you can run 5 listings a week or 500 as well.