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When it’s time to sell your machine shop equipment, choosing the right auction format is key to maximizing your return. With Backes Auctioneers, you have two main options: online auctions or in-person auctions. Both have their advantages, but which one is the best fit for your equipment, timeline, and goals? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision.

Online Auctions: Convenience and a Larger Buyer Pool

Online auctions have become increasingly popular, especially for industrial equipment. With buyers able to place bids from anywhere, online auctions open the door to a much larger audience than traditional, in-person sales.

Benefits of Online Auctions for Machine Shop Equipment:

• Wider Reach, More Bidders – Your CNC machines, lathes, and milling equipment will be seen by a national (or even global) audience, increasing competition and potentially driving up bids.
• Sell Without Moving Your Equipment – No need to transport large, heavy machinery to an auction site. Buyers bid remotely, and winning bidders arrange pickup.
• More Flexible Timing – Online auctions often run for several days, allowing more potential buyers to participate compared to a single-day, in-person event.
• Easy, Contact-Free Selling – If convenience is a priority, online auctions allow you to liquidate your assets without needing to attend or coordinate an on-site event.

When to Choose an Online Auction:

• You want to reach more buyers and maximize competition.
• Your machine shop equipment is highly specialized and may appeal to niche buyers outside your local area.
• You need to sell quickly but want the flexibility of an extended bidding window.

In-Person Auctions: Hands-On Bidding and Immediate Results

In-person auctions offer a more traditional, hands-on approach, allowing buyers to inspect equipment before placing bids. This format works well for heavy machinery and industrial equipment that buyers want to see in action before committing.

Benefits of In-Person Auctions for Machine Shop Equipment:

• Live Competitive Atmosphere – Some buyers prefer to be on-site, where they can inspect machines and bid in real-time, which often leads to higher final prices.
• Instant Sales, Faster Closings – In-person auctions happen in one day, meaning sellers get immediate results rather than waiting for online bidding to close.
• Great for Local and Regional Buyers – If your equipment appeals to buyers in your area, an in-person auction can help attract serious bidders who are ready to transport their purchases quickly.
• Ideal for Large Liquidations – If you’re selling an entire machine shop, hosting an on-site auction allows buyers to see everything at once and potentially buy multiple pieces of equipment.

When to Choose an In-Person Auction:

• You have multiple large machines that buyers may want to inspect before purchasing.
• Your machine shop is closing, and you need to sell everything quickly in one event.
• You’re located in an area with a strong local market for industrial equipment.

Which Auction is Right for Your Machine Shop Equipment?

Still unsure which auction type is best for your situation? Backes Auctioneers can help. Whether you choose an online or in-person auction, our team will guide you through the process and ensure you get the best possible return on your machine shop equipment.

Call us today at 800-876-8070
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