Common Questions
Q: Can I preview auction items?
A: Yes, previews are available for our auctions. Specific preview times can be found by clicking the specific auction tab on our website. Please note that we do not offer open daily access to any auction. All auction items are fully described and photographed online for your review.
Bidding & Auction Process
Q: How do I bid at an auction?
A: To place a bid, you must first register and provide valid credit card information. You may bid in two ways:
Place a bid at the current asking price.
Enter a maximum bid, allowing the system to bid on your behalf up to that amount.
Q: Why do you require bidding increments?
A: Bidding increments ensure a smooth and fair bidding process, preventing minimal increases such as a penny over the current bid.
Q: What is a soft close?
A: A soft close extends the auction if a bid is placed in the final seconds. At The Swicegood Group, we typically use a 3-minute soft close. For example, if a bid is placed with 50 seconds remaining, the timer resets to 3 minute. We recommend placing your bids early to avoid last-minute issues.
Q: I’m a broker, can I participate with my client in the auction.?
A: Yes, you can represent a buyer in an auction. As a broker, you’ll need to fill out the FAQ, Broker participation form. You will not bid for your buyer.
Buyer’s Premium & Sales Tax
Q: What is a buyer’s premium?
A: A buyer’s premium is a percentage added to the final bid amount.
Example: If the buyer’s premium is 15% and you win an item at $100, your total cost is $115.
Q: Is sales tax applied to the buyer’s premium?
A: Yes, sales tax is collected on the buyer’s premium in accordance with applicable state laws.
Q: What if I forgot to submit my tax-exempt form?
A: If we have not yet submitted sales tax to the state, we can process your refund once your exemption form is received and approved. If the tax has already been remitted, you’ll need to request a refund directly from the state.
Payments
Q: What forms of payment do you accept for online auctions?
A: All online purchases must be paid via credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Note: Credit cards are not accepted for titled vehicles or purchases over $2,000.
Q: When are payments processed?
A: Payments are automatically processed within one hour of the auction’s conclusion.
Q: What payment methods are accepted for titled vehicles?
A: For titled vehicles, we accept:
Cash
Wire transfers
Certified funds
Item Pick-Up & Removal
Q: When do I need to pick up my items?
A: Pick-up times are stated in the auction website. For auctions held off-site, times and locations will vary by location. Items not picked up within the scheduled timeframe will be deemed abandoned, with no refunds issued.
Q: How does pick-up work?
A: You will be provided a calender link to schedule a time for pickup. You are responsible for loading and securing your purchases. Our staff does not lift, load or pack. We do have a shipping department for various items. You will need to reach out to the auction lead to discuss item to be shipped. This is a cost separate from your purchase. Some larger items may require an outside vendor to ship.
Q: Do you provide packing materials or loading help?
A: No, we do not supply packing materials or loading assistance. However, our staff will ensure the correct items are delivered to the appropriate buyers.
Q: Where can I find pick-up times and addresses?
A: All relevant pick-up information is posted on the auction page. Once an auction concludes, it is moved to the “Recently Completed” section near the bottom of our homepage.
Q: What happens if I don’t pick up my items on time?
A: Items not collected during the designated removal window will be discarded or repurposed, and no refunds will be issued. Additionally, your bidding privileges may be suspended or revoked.
Item Condition & Warranties
Q: Are items covered by a warranty?
A: No. All items are sold as-is, where-is, with no guarantees or warranties expressed or implied. Most assets are consigned from estates or business liquidations and are not owned by The Swicegood Group, Inc.
