Material Handling
Industrial Robot Auctions
KD Auctions runs industrial robot auctions nationwide, reaching 500,000+ industry contacts for every sale. Whether you're buying or selling, our team handles everything from appraisal through final settlement.
Get a Free ConsultationEquipment We Auction
Who Buys at These Auctions
Automotive manufacturers, food and beverage processors, electronics assembly operations, and any facility automating material handling, welding, painting, or assembly operations.
Browse Upcoming AuctionsWho Consigns This Equipment
Automotive plant changeovers (releasing robots from discontinued model lines), plant closures, and corporate portfolio rationalization.
Get a Free ConsultationHow the Auction Process Works
Consultation & Appraisal
KD assesses your equipment, recommends the right sale path, and provides a realistic recovery estimate. USPAP-compliant appraisals available for lenders and court-supervised situations.
Cataloging & Marketing
Professional photography, detailed specs, and marketing to 500,000+ industry contacts via BidSpotter, email, LinkedIn, and trade publications. Typical marketing period is 2–4 weeks.
Auction & Settlement
Online timed auction closes, buyers coordinate removal within the specified window, and KD delivers a complete financial settlement with full accounting of all proceeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What robot brands are most sought-after at auction?
Fanuc, KUKA, ABB, and Yaskawa/Motoman are the most actively bid. Fanuc robots have the largest installed base and active buyer pool in North America, particularly for arc welding and material handling applications.
Are robot programs included with the sale?
Existing programs are included on the controller. Generic motion programs (pick-and-place, path demonstrations) are typically available. Proprietary part-specific programs may not be applicable to the buyer's application but come with the robot.
Do robots need to be complete cells to sell well?
Complete cells with controller, teach pendant, EOAT, and a proven program sell best. Bare robots without controllers can still sell but at a discount. KD Auctions recommends keeping cells intact when possible.
What is the buyer pool for collaborative robots (cobots)?
Cobots (Universal Robots, Fanuc CRX, KUKA LBR) have a growing and active buyer pool among small and mid-size manufacturers and educational institutions. Cobots typically command strong prices given their relatively recent introduction.
How old can a robot be and still sell at auction?
Robots from major brands can remain serviceable and attract buyers even at 15–20 years old, as long as the controller is functional and replacement parts remain available. Fanuc robots are particularly known for longevity.
Related Auction Types
Power of Two
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KD Machinery has material handling equipment available for immediate purchase, no auction required.
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