FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Seller Guide
How much does it cost to sell a car on WorldAutoAuction.com?
Listing a car on WorldAutoAuction.com is completely free—sellers receive 100% of the final sale price!
Will you consign every vehicle that you’re offered?
At WorldAutoAuction.com, our mission is to bridge the gap between buyers seeking reliable, affordable vehicles and sellers looking to quickly and effortlessly sell their cars. We specialize in high-quality automobiles that big-box retailers often overlook or undervalue— Did you know CarMax doesn’t make offers on vehicles over 11 years old? We think it’s their loss.
We consider placing any vehicle on our platform but our main goal is to provide value to both buyers and sellers. The cars that our audience want are reliable and yet enjoyable, rides that are cool because they bring peace of mind and don’t leave you in financial pain. Vehicles that may bring little trade-in credit but still hold significant retail worth.
How do you choose cars to list?
We focus on affordable and good condition cars , trucks, and SUVs, both modern and classic. If you’re looking to sell a good condition or sought after vehicle, we’re most likely interested in listing it. Our audience is most interested in good condition vehicles, it doesn’t hurt if they are also interesting or “fun” whether that means performance vehicle or off roading SUV. We review each submission to see if it’s a good fit for WorldAutoAuction.com.
What is the process for submitting a vehicle for auction
Click on the “Sell a Car” link in the website header. You’ll need to provide basic information like make, model, year, VIN, photos, and other relevant details. If your vehicle is accepted, we’ll reach out for more information to create your listing. Registration and title will be checked to make sure both are in your name.
What information do I need to provide?
Initially, we need basic details: make, model, year, VIN, and photos. If we proceed, we’ll ask for more in-depth information about the vehicle’s history, features, and condition to craft an accurate listing.
If we like what we see we will reach out with any further items that are needed before we can go live. Usually we will recommend extra high quality images, a walk around video of the vehicle outside/inside and a video demonstrating a cold start.
How can I take great photos of my vehicle?
Photography Tips and Preparation
To showcase your car effectively and attract potential buyers, we recommend the following steps before your photo session:
- Give Your Car a Thorough Cleaning: Wash and detail your vehicle inside and out. A spotless car will shine in photos and demonstrate your attention to maintenance.
- Remove Personal Items: Clear out cup holders, center consoles, the trunk, and any other storage areas. A clutter-free interior allows buyers to focus on the features of the car without distractions.
- Include Documentation: If you have service records or important documents, take clear photos of them to include in your listing. Be sure to conceal any personal information such as names, addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses. Covering sensitive details with a sticky note works well.
- Seek Additional Advice: For more tips on capturing great photos of your car, consider exploring photography guides or tutorials that offer best practices and techniques.
By following these suggestions, you’ll enhance the appeal of your listing and provide potential buyers with a clear, detailed view of your vehicle.
Is it beneficial to include a video?
Yes, videos showcasing the exterior, interior, engine start-up, and operation can enhance buyer confidence and interest.
Should I get my car inspected before listing?
An inspection can increase bidder confidence and potentially lead to higher bids. Providing a detailed report of your vehicle’s condition assures buyers of its quality. Inspections typically assess the vehicle’s exterior, interior, mechanical condition, and overall performance.
Who writes the listing description?
Our team will craft the final listing based on the information you provide. We’ll seek your approval before it goes live.
How can I contact you about my listing?
Once you’ve submitted your vehicle, we will primarily communicate with you by email. If needed we will reach out to you by text or phone.
Can I schedule when my auction starts?
You can express your preferences, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.
How long does an auction run?
Auctions typically run for seven days. In the final minute, any new bids reset the clock to one minute to allow continued bidding in order to prevent “sniping.”
Can I edit my listing after it’s live?
You can’t directly edit your listing, but you can contact us to make changes or add comments and additional photos to the listing. In addition you can make comments of your own and answer bidder questions directly in the listing.
How should I engage with bidders during the auction?
Actively participate by responding to questions in the comments and Q&A sections. Positive and prompt engagement can enhance buyer confidence.
Can I set a reserve price?
Yes, you can choose a reserve (minimum acceptable price) or opt for a no-reserve auction. If setting a reserve, we’ll discuss the amount with you.
Should I disclose my reserve price to bidders?
We advise against revealing your reserve price, as it may discourage bidding.
Who can bid on my vehicle?
Any registered user with a verified email and valid credit card on file can bid. Bidders are expected to pay in full within one week of the auction’s end.
Can I sell my car outside of the auction platform?
No, all sales must go through WorldAutoAuction.com until the end of the auction period. Attempts to circumvent this process may result in a ban. Afterwards, if the sale is not successful you may do as you please.
What happens if my reserve isn’t met?
We’ll work with you and the highest bidder to negotiate a potential sale. If an agreement is reached, we’ll facilitate the transaction with a reduced buyer’s fee.
How does the buyer contact me and make payment?
After the auction, both parties receive contact information to arrange payment and vehicle transfer with one another.
How do I securely receive payment?
We recommend using secure methods like wire transfers or cashier’s checks. Discuss payment details with the buyer and ensure funds are received before transferring ownership.
You can use a service like keysavvy to facilitate the transaction and serve as an escrow agent. https://www.keysavvy.com/
How should I prepare for selling my car?
Research your state’s title transfer process and be ready to address any liens or loans on the vehicle. Clear communication with potential buyers about these details is crucial.
Do I need a Bill of Sale?
Yes, we recommend creating a Bill of Sale that includes all relevant details of the transaction. Both parties should sign and keep copies.
What if the winning bidder doesn’t complete the purchase?
If a buyer fails to follow through, we’ll work with the next highest bidders or consider re-listing your vehicle.
How long are past auctions available for viewing?
All past auctions remain available indefinitely for transparency and reference.
Buyer Guide
What fees am I responsible for when buying on WorldAutoAuction.com?
When you purchase a vehicle through WorldAutoAuction.com, you’ll pay the final sale price to the seller plus a buyer’s fee to us. This buyer’s fee is 4.5% of the sale price, with a minimum of $225 and capped at a maximum of $4,000.
How do I sign up to bid on vehicles?
To get started, click the “Sign In” button at the top of the website front page, then select “Create Account” in the pop-up window. Create a username and password, and verify your email address using the link we send you. Once verified, you can log in and complete your registration to start bidding.
If you’d rather wait, that’s fine. When you’re ready to bid on a vehicle, click a bid amount in the listing. You’ll be prompted to register at that point before you can submit your bid. You’ll need to provide your credit card information, as we place a hold on your card during the auction.
How do I place a bid on a vehicle?
After registering, find the vehicle you’re interested in and click “Place Bid” on its listing page. Enter your bid amount, ensuring it’s higher than the current highest bid and meets any minimum increment requirements. We will place a hold on your credit card for 4.5% of your bid amount (with the same minimum and maximum as the buyer’s fee) until the auction ends.
Can I participate in auctions if I’m outside the U.S. or Canada?
Yes, international buyers are welcome. However, you must pay for the vehicle in full promptly after the auction ends. All responsibilities related to importing the vehicle—including fees, transportation, and legal requirements—are entirely yours. Please ensure you understand these obligations before bidding.
How can I contact a seller privately?
You can send a private message to the seller by clicking the “Ask the seller a question or make a comment”” link on the vehicle’s listing page. This allows you to communicate with the seller.
How do I know if a vehicle has been inspected?
Vehicles that have been inspected will display an “Inspected” badge near the listing title. You can view the inspection report by clicking the provided link on the listing page, usually found near the main image or alongside the vehicle history report.
What does a vehicle inspection include?
Inspections cover detailed assessments of the vehicle’s exterior, interior, mechanical condition, and overall performance. For more specifics, please visit contact us.
Will the vehicle be test-driven during the inspection?
Inspectors will test-drive the vehicle if it’s road-legal, safe to drive, and if the seller agrees. In some cases, due to certain restrictions, the inspector may not be able to perform a test drive. In such instances, the seller or their representative may conduct the test drive.
Does WorldAutoAuction.com offer proxy bidding?
Yes, if you are unable to attend an auction but would like to place a proxy bid you may.
Why is there a hold on my credit card when I bid?
We place a hold on your credit card to cover the buyer’s fee in case you win the auction. The hold amounts to 4.5% of your bid, with a minimum of $225 and a maximum of $4,000. If you don’t win, the hold is released after the auction concludes.
I didn’t win the auction; why is the hold still on my card?
We release the hold immediately after the auction ends if you’re not the winning bidder. However, your bank may take a few days—up to seven business days in rare cases—to reflect this release. Please contact your bank for more details on their processing times.
Can I find out the reserve price of a vehicle?
If a vehicle is listed without a reserve, it will have a “No Reserve” tag on the listing page. If there’s no such tag, the auction has a reserve price, which is confidential. We ask that you refrain from asking the seller about the reserve during the auction. You’ll know the reserve has been met if the vehicle sells when the auction ends.
What happens if the reserve isn’t met?
If the reserve price isn’t met, we’ll work with you (the highest bidder) and the seller to negotiate a mutually agreeable price. If an agreement is reached, we’ll facilitate the transaction, and the buyer’s fee may be reduced. Only the highest bidder is eligible for post-auction negotiations.
How do I complete the purchase after winning an auction?
Upon winning, you’ll receive the seller’s contact information, and they’ll receive yours. You should reach out to arrange payment and discuss pickup or shipping details.
How can I arrange financing for my purchase?
We partner with reputable financial institutions to offer financing options. You can explore and apply for loans through these vendors. If you have questions, feel free to contact our finance team at Admin@worldautoauction.com.
What are my options for receiving the vehicle?
As the buyer, you’re responsible for transportation costs. You can choose to pick up the vehicle yourself or arrange for it to be shipped. Options include flying out to drive the vehicle home or hiring a shipping service. Shipping quotes can often be obtained directly from the auction page. Coordinate with the seller to ensure your plans align with their availability.
How should I securely pay the seller?
We recommend using secure payment methods like wire transfers or cashier’s checks. Discuss payment options with the seller to find a method that works for both of you. Always take precautions to ensure a safe transaction.
Are there guidelines for commenting on auctions?
Yes, we have community guidelines to maintain a respectful environment. When participating in auction comments, please focus on the vehicle and avoid:
- Offensive language
- Personal attacks
- Sharing personal contact information
- Spamming or unrelated advertising
- Asking about the reserve price
- Speculating on the final sale price
- Posting inappropriate content or links
- Promoting personal businesses or social media
- Discussing unrelated topics
Shipping Questions
How do I contact WorldAutoAuction.com about shipping?
Email us at Admin@worldautoauction.com for any shipping inquiries and we can help introduce you to a trusted carrier.
Should I choose open or enclosed transport?
Open transport is more cost-effective but exposes the vehicle to the elements. Enclosed transport offers protection but at a higher cost. Choose based on your needs and the vehicle’s value.
Does WorldAutoAuction.com handle international shipping?
Yes, although we aren’t an international shipping carrier we can can assist you with finding a trusted business. Reach out to discuss specifics at admin@worldautoauction.com
How will I be contacted about shipping details?
Sign-In Questions
How do I sign in to my account?
Click “Sign In” at the top-right corner and enter your email and password.
What if I forget my password?
Use the “Forgot your password?” link on the sign-in page, and we’ll email you instructions to reset it. Be sure to check your email spam folder if the email doesn’t arrive within a few minutes.
Why is my email address required?
We use your email for account verification, communications, and to connect you with buyers or sellers after auctions.
Still having trouble signing in—who can help?
Contact us at Admin@worldautoauction.com, and we’ll assist you.
Get in Touch with Support
Our dedicated support team is here to assist you. Reach out to us for any inquiries, assistance.
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