Government Auctions: How to Find Hundreds of Items

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Matthew Impelli is a Newsweek staff writer based in New York. His focus is reporting social issues and crime. In January 2023, Matthew traveled to Moscow, Idaho where he reported on the quadruple murders and arrest of Bryan Kohberger. Matthew joined Newsweek in 2019 after graduating from Syracuse University. He also received his master’s degree from St. John’s University in 2021. You can get in touch with Matthew by emailing [email protected]. Languages: English.

Matthew Impelli

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Understanding how government auctions work and how to navigate platforms like GSA Auctions can help individuals and businesses take advantage of opportunities.

What Is A Government Auction?Government auctions provide a way for the public to purchase surplus or forfeited goods from various federal agencies at competitive prices. These auctions often feature vehicles, office equipment, electronics, industrial machinery and even real estate. The auctions are held by government entities such as the General Services Administration (GSA), which facilitates the sale of unneeded government property to businesses and individuals.

One of the largest platforms for these auctions is the GSA Auctions website, where people can find thousands of items available for bidding. Government agencies dispose of items that are either surplus to their needs or have been seized in legal actions, offering the public a chance to purchase them at reduced rates compared to retail prices.

What To Know About The GSA Auction WebsiteThe GSA Auctions website (gsaauctions.gov) is the federal government’s official online auction site, providing access to surplus property sales. The platform offers a wide range of categories, including:

Vehicles – Sedans, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and even busesElectronics – Computers, office equipment and communication devicesMedical Equipment – Lab instruments, dental chairs and other health care-related itemsIndustrial Machinery – Construction tools, hand tools and shop equipmentFurniture – Desks, chairs, cabinets and office suppliesReal Estate – Surplus federal buildings, land and residential propertiesBidders can browse items by category, location or auction status. The website provides detailed descriptions, images and bidding timelines to help potential buyers make informed decisions.

A man holds up his hand while bidding on a work of art inside Christie’s auction house during the Post-War and contemporary Art sale on November 15, 2006, in New York City.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images/Getty Images
How To Bid On Government Auction ItemsParticipating in a government auction is straightforward but requires registration. Here’s how to get started:

Create an Account – Visit GSA Auctions and sign up for a free account.Browse Available Items – Use the search function or browse by category to find active listings.Review Auction Details – Each listing includes specifications, photos and bidding instructions. Some auctions may require a deposit.Place a Bid – Enter your maximum bid amount. Many auctions use proxy bidding, meaning the system automatically increases your bid incrementally up to your limit.Monitor the Auction – Stay updated on your bid status, as auctions can be competitive.Complete Payment – If you win, follow the payment instructions provided by GSA Auctions.Arrange for Pickup or Shipping – Depending on the item, you may need to pick it up from a specified location or arrange for delivery.Government auctions present an opportunity to purchase valuable items at a fraction of their market price. Whether you’re looking for a used government vehicle, office supplies or even a home, platforms like GSA Auctions provide access to a wide range of surplus and forfeited assets.

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