| Even in these trying economic times there is still a | | | | out their prospective vehicles at the auction house's |
| way for the general public to acquire well maintained | | | | Inspection Day. Bear in mind that there may be as |
| vehicles at significant savings. Of course I am talking | | | | many as a few hundred vehicles slated for a single |
| about the ever reliable Government Auto Auctions, | | | | auction, which means that a couple hours, at the |
| where the general public can purchase pre-owned | | | | least, should be allowed for a detailed inspection. |
| American-built vehicles. At times, it is not uncommon | | | | It is important to thoroughly review the Auction |
| to find Alternative Fuel Vehicles, which is almost | | | | Catalog so as to get as much information on the |
| impossible to find at any other Auction. | | | | vehicles you have decided on after the physical |
| These Government surplus vehicles which are | | | | inspection. And I said "vehicles" because there is |
| generally under the control of the General Services | | | | never going to be a guarantee that you will win at |
| Administration are mainly two or three year vehicles. | | | | your first bid. These catalogs list the vehicles in the |
| Such fleet comprise of cars, trucks, vans and SUVs. | | | | order they will be offered for sale. The listings will |
| All well maintained and ready for immediate sale. | | | | include the vehicles' make, model, year, mileage, VIN# |
| These Government Auto Auctions are held | | | | and any special features. By now I'm sure you see |
| nationwide at scheduled times throughout most of | | | | why a Government Auto Auction is so superior to |
| the year, and are always open to the public. | | | | any other. |
| You can be assured that the General Services | | | | Finally, you should use resources like Kelly Blue Book, |
| Administration is dedicated to serving the needs of | | | | National Auto Dealers Association and Edmunds |
| those who, for years, have dreamed of satisfying | | | | among others, to determine the present cost of |
| their transportation needs with a steal of a deal. The | | | | your targeted vehicle in advance of making a bid. |
| idea behind their efforts is to make you auction | | | | Another important factor to keep in mind is that all |
| experience a rewarding and enjoyable one. In fact | | | | used vehicles are not the same. A vehicle may have |
| you are encouraged to familiarize yourself in advance | | | | a higher or lower mileage than a similar one. The |
| with the way their Auctions are conducted. | | | | condition may differ as well as the included options. |
| All Government Auto Auctions are conducted | | | | So be sure to make allowance for these differences, |
| through registered auction lots across the United | | | | since they can play a significant role in the price you |
| States. You are required to register and secure your | | | | bid. |
| bidder number at the auction site prior to the | | | | Bear in mind that you will be bidding against people |
| commencement of the sale. | | | | like yourself who are also looking for a deal. So don't |
| Next, it's time to inspect the vehicles so as to | | | | for one moment feel that you are bidding too low. |
| familiarize yourself with those vehicles that peak your | | | | However if that's the case, remember there is that |
| interest. Some experienced bidders as much as check | | | | other vehicle you looked at still to come. |