Tool 06 / Auction Day Prep
Decide where you stop bidding before the auction starts.
Start from what the car will sell for and the profit you want to keep. We work backwards through recon, fees and buyer’s premium to the highest bid that still pays.
01
Max bid
Bid sheet
Live
Target resale$13,200
Less recon$1,200
Less your profit$2,500
Less flat fees$300
Buyer’s premium on top10.0%
Stop bidding at
$8,364
All-in cost at that bid$10,700
Every dollar over this comes straight out of your $2,500 profit.
02
What run and drive status really means
General definitions used across most salvage auction sites. Confirm the exact wording on the site you’re bidding on.
- Runs and drives
- Started and moved under its own power at the time of inspection. Lowest risk, but no guarantee there are no issues.
- Starts
- The engine starts, but the car may not be safe or able to drive. Could mean transmission, drivetrain or safety problems.
- Enhanced vehicle / not applicable
- No start was attempted or possible. Assume it needs mechanical work until proven otherwise.
- Stationary / non-running
- Confirmed not to start or run. Budget for engine or major drivetrain diagnosis before you bid.
03
Pre-bid checklist
0 / 14 checked
Max bid is a planning estimate based on the numbers you enter. Auction fees vary by platform and location, so check the exact fee schedule before you bid.
Run the numbers before your next offer.
Open the Deal Analyzer
Free / no account / takes two minutes