FAQs for Storage Auctions:
Q. Can I bring my son or daughter to the auction?
A. If they are over 18, 'yes'. Because of the large crowds, most operators no longer allow persons under 18 to attend the auction.
Q. How long do I have to clean out a units that I purchased?
A. Most storage operators allow just 24 hours to clean out a unit, typically you have until the end of the next business day. Most operators only allow you to be on site while the office is open. Usually 9:30 to 6:00 Pm on M-F; weekend and holiday hours vary. If you have any questions, please check with the storage manager.
Q. Why are there auctions "a" and "b" on the storage auction schedule.
A. Many days were a conducting two auctions circuits, usually a large distance apart, using of course 2 auctioneers. one auctioneer does one circuit, from start to finish.
Q. Do I need to pre-register before the storage auction?
A. No. Registration is held just before the auction. Any one who participates in the sale must register. Be sure to bring your drivers license or some other form of picture ID. Usually you register at each location.
Q. Can I use my credit or debit cards to pay for the units I purchased?
A. Almost all sales require the buyer to pay all in cash. In some states, cash is the only method of payment allowed.
Q. How much cash should I bring?
A. There is no guaranteed return from selling the contents of a storage unit, so how much could you afford to spend and still pay your monthly bills.
Q. I've heard this statement at auctions, "Everything is sold As Is, Where is, with no warranty expressed or implied." Can you tell me what it means?
A. Simply stated there are no returns at auction. The auctioneer and the seller do not guarantee any lots. So buying a TV in a storage bin may not work, but you can't return it. The risk is assumed by the buyer and not the seller.
Q. What will happen if I can't clean out the storage bin in the time allowed?
A. Not cleaning out the unit you purchased in the prescribed time is the number one reason buyers get banned from sales. If you can't comply with the time limits, talk to the manager in charge of the location as soon as possible. You can consider renting it for a month to give you enough time to clear it.
Q. Do I have to pay sales taxes on my bins?
A. Most states require you to pay sales tax unless you have valid resale tax certificate and plan to resell what you buy. Check with the state treasurer or comptroller where you live.
Q. Is there a minimum age to bid?
A. Yes, 18 in most states, also called the age of Majority. Because you must be an adult to enter into contract, and a bid by a buyer an acceptance by the auctioneer is a contract.
Q. Can I take pictures?
A Typically, no. Most operators have policies against taking pictures. Many states have laws against taking video and/or pictures with out permission.
Q. How much will I have to pay for a storage unit?
A. As much as you are willing to pay. The range of units is $ 0 to $17,500. Most untis sell for under
$ 250.00.
Q. Will I need to place a deposit if I win a bid on a unit?
A. Some operators require a refundable clean-out deposit to make sure you come back. Clean out the unit in the time allowed and your deposit will be refunded.
Q. When is lunch?
A. We do not have a scheduled lunch break. Bring your own lunch if you want to keep up with the tour. Sometimes, buyers will take a lunch when a location cancels an auction.
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