Online vs. On-Site Auctions: Which Is Best?
When selling used industrial machinery, one of the most important decisions is choosing between an online auction or an on-site (live) auction. Each format has its advantages depending on your goals, timeline, location, and the type of assets being sold.
At KD Auctions, we help you determine the best strategy, whether it’s a fully online event, a traditional on-site sale, or a hybrid format combining both. Here’s how each auction type works, and which one may be the right fit for your needs.
Online Auctions: Reach, Speed, and Convenience
Online auctions are conducted entirely through our secure digital platform, allowing bidders from across the country (and beyond) to compete in real-time or timed formats.
Benefits of Online Auctions:
– Wider Buyer Reach: Attracts national and global bidders
– Lower Overhead: No need to host buyers at your facility
– Convenient for Sellers: No in-person setup or hosting required
– Flexible Scheduling: Auctions can run over several days
– Ideal for Scattered Assets: Sell from multiple locations at once
Best for:
– Sellers with limited space or remote locations
– Time-sensitive liquidation
– Asset portfolios located in different states
– Popular equipment categories like CNC, plastics, fabrication
On-Site Auctions: Energy, Urgency, and Local Impact
On-site auctions take place at the seller’s location, often with auctioneers, on site bidders, and real-time site location bidding.
Benefits of On-Site Auctions:
– Immediate Buyer Engagement: Live environment encourages impulse bids
– Higher Competition for Niche Equipment: Great for unique or specialty machinery
– Full Facility Experience: Buyers can inspect, test, and bid on-site
– Local Market Impact: Attracts nearby buyers, resellers, and end users
Best for:
– Complete plant liquidations
– Heavier equipment needing in-person inspection
– Regions with strong local buyer bases
– Sellers looking to clear out space quickly
Hybrid Auctions: The Best of Both Worlds
Hybrid auctions combine the benefits of online and on-site formats. Bidders can participate in person or remotely via live webcast.
Benefits:
– Maximum Exposure: In-person and online bidders compete
– Flexible Logistics: Ideal for high-value or complex sales
– Real-Time Transparency: Live auction action streamed digitally
– Custom Strategy: Tailored to your assets and market
So… Which Format Is Right for You?
Our team will help you decide based on:
– Your goals: Speed vs. maximum value
– Asset location: Single site vs. multiple warehouses
– Machinery type: Commodity vs. specialized equipment
– Buyer base: Regional vs. nationwide interest
– Facility access: Ease of inspection, power availability, rigging conditions
Let’s Plan the Right Auction for You
Not sure which option to choose? We are here to help.
– Talk to an auction strategist
– Explore our auction services
– Or call us at 480.455.3910 or email service@kdauctions.com
KD Auctions – Online or on-site, we deliver auction solutions that work.