To participate in the auction, you must first register. New to our website? Simply create an online profile to get started. Once registered, you can participate in any of our personal property auctions. You must register each time for real estate auctions. You’ll need to verify your account by having a valid credit card on file. After the auction concludes, this card will be used for payment.
interested in buying or selling? we’re here to help.
buyers
Welcome to Kraft Auctions, where every bidder is welcome! Whether you’re a seasoned auction participant or new to the process, we believe that buying at auction should be straightforward, exciting, and rewarding. Kraft Auctions is your gateway to incredible finds and unbeatable opportunities.
buyers key terms
Registration
A valid driver’s license or government-issued ID is required for live auction registration. For online auctions, buyers must register with a valid credit card to verify their account and enable bidding.
Buyers Premium
A percentage added to the winning bid price to determine the final sale price of an item. The buyer’s premium varies by auction and is clearly outlined in the terms for each event.
Sales Tax
The applicable sales tax rate depends on the auction details and the buyer’s location. Each auction’s terms specify whether sales tax will be applied and at what rate. For out-of-state buyers, Nexus laws may require local taxes to be charged when items are shipped to their location.
Payment
Accepted payment methods include cash, check, and major credit cards for all auctions.
Absolute
An auction format where all items are sold to the highest bidder with no reserve or minimum bid, ensuring that every item changes hands regardless of the final bid amount.
Reserve
An auction format where certain items have a minimum bid (reserve price) that must be met before the auctioneer can complete the sale. Typically used for high-value assets, such as residential or commercial real estate, this approach ensures the seller retains the right to accept or reject the highest bid if the reserve is not met.
Soft-Close
A bidding format used in Kraft’s online-only auctions to ensure fair competition. In a soft close, items are scheduled to close in timed increments, usually 15 seconds apart. If a bid is placed within the final two minutes of an item’s countdown, the closing time automatically extends by another two minutes. This process continues until no new bids are placed in the final two minutes, at which point the item is sold to the highest bidder. Each item features a visible countdown timer to track its closing status.
Multi-Par
A multi-par auction, or multi-parcel auction, divides a larger property into smaller parcels that can be bid on individually or in combination. This format is often used for land and farm auctions with multiple property types or large acreage.
- Key Features of a Multi-Par Auction:
- Buyer Control: Buyers can focus on specific parcels and have more control over their acquisitions.
- Bidding Process: Bidding starts on individual parcels, with the total bid displayed. Bidding then opens for the entire property, with the total bid needing to exceed the sum of individual tract bids.
- Additional Bidding: After initial bidding, buyers can increase their bids on individual tracts, combine tracts, or raise the total bid for all parcels.
- This format offers flexibility and control, allowing buyers to acquire land according to their needs.
Times the Money
When multiple items are being offered for sale, but the winning bidder must purchase all the items at the bid amount multiplied by the number of items being sold.
Absentee Bidding
Absentee bidding allows participants to bid without being present at the auction. The bidder sets a maximum bid in advance, and the auction house places bids on their behalf, up to that limit. The auctioneer will compete against other bids but will not exceed the absentee bidder’s maximum.
As-is Where Is
Items are sold in their current condition, with no warranties or guarantees from the seller. The buyer is responsible for inspecting the item and accepts it with all existing faults, whether visible or not. The seller is not liable for any repairs, improvements, or issues with the item. Buyers should make their own inspections and judgments prior to bidding.
Choice Out
When multiple similar items are offered for sale, the bidder may choose to bid on individual items. The winning bidder can select as many items as they wish at the bid price. If they don’t want all of the items, the remaining items are made available, and bidding continues until all lots are sold. This strategy is typically used for selling large quantities of similar items.
Why Buy Through Kraft Auctions?
Unmatched Variety
From collectibles and antiques to heavy equipment and vehicles, we offer a diverse range of items across our auctions. Whether you’re hunting for a rare treasure or practical equipment, we’ve got something for everyone.
Competitive Pricing
Auctions provide the opportunity to purchase unique items at market-driven prices. The excitement of bidding ensures you only pay what the item is worth to you.
Transparency and Fairness
Our process is straightforward, with detailed item descriptions, transparent fees, and a “soft close” for online auctions to prevent last-second bidding wars.
Convenience
With online and live auctions, you can participate wherever you are. Plus, our shipping services and load-out assistance ensure you can retrieve your items hassle-free.
Expertise and Trust
With decades of experience, Kraft Auctions has built a reputation for professionalism and customer satisfaction. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
What to Expect on Sale Day
Online Only Auctions
Registering for the Auction
Auction Preview
An auction preview is a designated time before the auction when potential buyers can examine the items that will be sold. Previews are free and open to the public, making it the perfect opportunity to:
- Check the condition of items: Inspect items up close to ensure they meet your expectations. Remember, all items are sold “as is, where is.”
- Ask questions: Our team is available to provide additional information about items whenever possible.
- Taking advantage of the auction preview ensures you feel confident in your bidding decisions.
How to Bid on Items
Bidding in an online auction is simple and convenient. Once you’ve registered for the auction, you can start bidding immediately. About 30 minutes before the first lot begins closing, a “live” catalog becomes available on our website. This feature displays the lots in closing order, allowing you to follow the action in real time. You can continue bidding as items close, ensuring you never miss out on your favorite lots.
When the Auction Begins Closing
At Kraft Auction Service, we use a “soft close” format for our online-only auctions to ensure every bidder has a fair chance. Items close in timed increments, typically 15 seconds apart, until all are sold. If a bid is placed within the final two minutes of an item’s countdown, the clock resets on that item for an additional two minutes. Once no further bids are made during the final two-minute window, the item is sold to the highest bidder. Each item has a countdown clock that keeps you informed in real time, ensuring you know exactly when it’s time to act!
Paying for Your Items
Payment for your winning bids is seamless. After the auction ends, the card on file is automatically charged, and you’ll receive an invoice via email. For larger purchases, we also offer the option to pay at pick-up with cash or check—simply let us know in advance.
Picking Up or Shipping Your Items
Every online auction includes scheduled pick-up days, which are outlined in the auction listing. Be sure to review these details before bidding to ensure you can retrieve your items at the designated times.
Can’t make it to the pick-up location? No problem! We offer worldwide shipping and home delivery services for all our auctions. After the auction ends, simply request shipping or delivery, and our automated system will handle the rest, bringing your purchases straight to your doorstep.
What to Expect on Sale Day
Live Auctions
When to Arrive
We recommend arriving at least an hour before the auction begins. Our team will be onsite and ready to assist during this time, giving you the opportunity to inspect the items being sold. This is highly encouraged, as all items are sold “as is, where is.” While the auctioneer will disclose known details, it’s ultimately your responsibility to assess the condition of items you’re interested in.
Registering for the Auction
Before bidding, you’ll need to register either at the auction office (for auctions at our facility) or at the onsite auction trailer. Bring a valid ID with your correct address to complete the process. Once registered, you’ll receive a bidder number—this is essential for tracking your purchases, so keep it handy.
Sales tax applies to many auctions, so if you’re tax-exempt, be sure to bring your tax ID and notify our staff during registration.
How to Bid on Items
When the auctioneer reaches an item you want to bid on, raise the bidder card you received at registration. The auctioneer will acknowledge your bid and move to the next increment, taking bids from in-person and online bidders.
You may notice a ring man assisting the auctioneer by signaling bids from the crowd. If the ring man sees your bid, they’ll ensure it’s relayed to the auctioneer. Auctions move quickly, so bid promptly!
After the Auctioneer Says “Sold”
Once the auctioneer declares an item sold, it’s officially yours, and you’re responsible for it. To keep smaller items safe, bring a box or container to store them. Larger items will be marked with your bidder number for identification.
Paying for Your Items
A clerk records all sales as the auction progresses. When you’re ready to check out, visit the registration desk. The cashier will have a record of your purchases and provide a total.
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards, though credit card payments include a 3% convenience fee. Once payment is made, you’re ready to take your new treasures home!
sellers
At Kraft Auction, we understand that every seller’s needs are unique. Whether you’re looking to downsize, liquidate a business, or sell a valuable collection, we have the tools, expertise, and nationwide reach to ensure your auction is a success. From antiques and collectibles to heavy machinery and luxury vehicles, our team is committed to making the selling process seamless, transparent, and rewarding.
With over 45 years of experience, Kraft Auction Service has the expertise and capability to serve all your auction needs, whether you’re a buyer or seller. Our team is fully licensed in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Washington, and Virginia, and we’ve successfully conducted auctions in states such as Arizona, California, Oklahoma, Michigan, Kansas, and Nebraska. No matter where you are or what you have to sell, our reputation for excellence and commitment to results ensures your success.
Advantages of Selling with Kraft Auction Service
Choosing Kraft Auction Service means choosing a team that is dedicated to making your auction process seamless and successful. Here’s what sets us apart:
Free Consultations
Whether you need help determining the value of your items or selecting the best type of auction for your situation, we’re here to guide you—at no cost.
Clean-Out Services
From full house clean-outs to complete business liquidations, our team and equipment can handle everything, including trash removal.
Pick-up and Delivery
Can’t bring your items to us? No problem! Call us to make convenient arrangements for pick-up or delivery.
Quick Turn Around
You’ll receive the proceeds from your auction within seven banking days in most cases.
Advertising
From layouts to designs, we handle all the advertising so your auction reaches the widest audience possible.
Comprehensive Documentation
We provide a detailed listing of all items sold, along with their sale prices, for your records.
No Upfront Costs
Our auctions can be conducted without any advance fees from you.
Sales Tax Management
Leave the details to us—we handle the collection and payment of all associated sales taxes.
types of auctions
With over 48 years of experience
This is our most common auction format. An online only auction is a timed auction format where all the bidding takes place on our website. There is no live auction or live bidders. Bidders can inspect items at the preview times, place all their bids online, and then pick their items up at the designated removal times. We also offer shipping and delivery options for these sales and all of our other auctions too.
This type of auction is a live auction with a live crowd, but includes online bidding on one or multiple bidding platforms bringing all bidders to the auction at once. These types of auctions are traditionally used for our largest auctions and lead to the greatest auction results.
The traditional auction everyone imagines of an auctioneer calling bids in-front of a live auction crowd. Though the history of our company is based on strong live auctions and champion auctioneers, this today is not a type of auction we do often because without the use of the internet at the auction leads to lower returns for our seller. Either a live auction with simulcast bidding or online only auction is our preferred method of sale.
What items are sold at Kraft Auctions?
At Kraft Auction Services, we sell a wide range of items, including antiques, collectibles, tools, vehicles, heavy equipment, farm equipment, real estate, and more. Check our Auction Calendar for detailed lists of upcoming sales.
How does Kraft Auctions differ from eBay?
Unlike eBay, where individuals post items, we curate and manage all auctions for our selling clients. Our auctions feature a “soft close” system, ensuring that the bidding extends until the highest bid is secured, preventing last-second bids from winning unfairly.
How do I sell items at Kraft Auctions?
We are always accepting consignments of various items, including real estate. Contact us to discuss your needs and find the right auction for your items.
Are items sold with guarantees?
All items are sold “As is, Where is.” Buyers are responsible for inspecting items prior to purchase. We encourage you to attend previews or request condition reports by phone or email.
Will I get a title if I buy a vehicle or titled item?
Yes, titles are provided for all vehicles and titled items, subject to the following:
- A $40 processing fee applies to all titled items.
- Titles will be assigned with the buyer’s name, address, sale date, and purchase price. Open titles are not permitted.
- After payment is made, you’ll receive an email to confirm title assignment details. If no response is received, titles will be assigned to the name and address on your invoice.
- If payment is made by check, titles will be held for 10–14 days to ensure payment clears.
- Titles marked “in transit” in the catalog will be forwarded as soon as Kraft Auction Service receives them.
- Titles are shipped via UPS with tracking, insurance, and a required signature. Shipping details will be emailed to you.
- Buyers are responsible for transferring titles to their name within 30 days of receipt. Kraft Auction Service is not responsible for lost or unprocessed titles after this period.
What if I can’t attend the auction?
No problem! Most of our auctions include an online bidding option, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your home or on the go. Simply register online and place your bids in real-time as the auction unfolds.
If online bidding isn’t an option for you, we also offer absentee bidder services. With this service, you can submit your maximum bid in advance, and our team will bid on your behalf during the auction. This ensures you don’t miss out on items, even if you can’t be there in person.
What should I do as the executor of an estate?
Kraft Auction Services offers solutions for estate management, including real estate and personal items. Contact us to set up a consultation.
How can I get an accurate appraisal for my items?
If you’re curious about the value of an item or need an appraisal for insurance, estate planning, or other purposes, Kraft Auctions can help. Our team has expert knowledge and stays closely connected to current market trends, allowing us to provide professional, accurate appraisals for high-value single items, estates, businesses, or collections. With specialty expertise and a network of global professionals, we offer fair market valuations and detailed reports tailored to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appraisal, contact us here.
What is a Buyer’s Premium?
A Buyer’s Premium is a percentage added to the final bid price, payable at closing. The specific premium will be listed in the terms for each auction.
Do I have to pay sales tax?
Sales tax may apply depending on the auction location and buyer’s location. Auction terms will state whether sales tax is charged.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, or major credit cards. Full payment is required at the conclusion of the auction.
Do you offer shipping or assistance for large items?
Yes, we offer shipping and delivery services. Buyers must arrange for item removal during designated times, and we provide load-out assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.
How can I inspect items before bidding?
We highly recommend inspecting items during the auction preview. The dates and times for previews will be listed on each auction’s page.
What are “Absolute” and “Reserve” auctions?
In an Absolute Auction, all items sell to the highest bidder with no minimum price. In a Reserve Auction, certain items have a minimum bid that must be reached before the item is sold.
What does “As-Is, Where Is” mean?
This means the item is sold without warranty or guarantee. Buyers must rely on their own inspections and are responsible for the item’s removal after the sale.
What is a “Soft Close” auction?
A soft close means if a bid is placed in the final minutes of an online auction, the bidding time extends by two minutes. This ensures fair bidding and prevents last-second “sniping.”
How do I register for an auction?
For live auctions, you’ll need a valid ID. For online auctions, register with a valid credit card on our website to bid. You must accept and agree to the terms of the auction in order to bid.
How do your onsite personal property auctions work? Is both live and online bidding available?
When we conduct onsite sales, we have the capabilities to make sure that our auctions are an easy experience from end-to-end for our sellers. From the very beginning, we will bring an experienced team that can line up and catalog items and clean up the location. The team will be there for the preview to answer any questions from buyers and help them inspect items.
On Auction day, we will bring our wifi-enabled mobile office to check in customers, clerk the sale and complete check out. We are fully capable of conducting live online simulcast sales at the sellers location as well as online only sales. Our team will be there to conduct the sale and assist buyers to ensure a simple and easy experience for our sellers.
Post sale, our team will coordinate with buyers to ensure all items are removed from the location and provide buyers any assistance they need with loading items. We work hard to ensure a fully transparent experience for our sellers and share a detailed settlement sheet listing all items sold, commissions and any expenses along with payment.
Do you use marketing for an auction property?
Yes. When marketing your property, we market the individual property through multiple channels: online, print, mailers, and yard signage. For online marketing, our marketing covers our website and multiple auction websites, the MLS which also covers Realtor.com and other major real estate websites, and social media including our 20,000+ followers on Facebook.
For print advertising we still advertise in local newspapers and create auction flyers for each property. We will also create a mailer and mail that to a list of previous clients plus the 100 surrounding property owners. Lastly we will use yard signage to attract attention to the property. With all of this coverage, we are sure to find the right buyers for your property.
