Mobile and Localized Auctions Offer Personalized Options and Priced-Right Inventory For Smaller Dealers

Typically located in major metropolitan areas, wholesale auctions are a noisy, fast-moving scene of buyer, seller, auctioneer and all of the other players it takes to pull off a multi-lane event. For some dealers, especially Independents and BHPH dealers, it’s a love-hate relationship: They love the vehicles but hate the hassle of distance, transportation expense and being away from the store for a whole day. As a result, they’re finding new ways to source and acquire inventory both online and at live auctions closer to home.

This hasn’t gone unnoticed by the big auctions. No one wants to lose business. More importantly, it’s a source of pride. Every major auction location started off humbly, building on relationships and service to achieve success. Manheim, for instance, has realigned its offerings to address the various needs of its client segments with a three-tier model that consists of full-service auctions serving regional and national audiences; locally focused auctions that service needs closer to home, commonly within 75 miles; and mobile auctions where Manheim brings the auction to your local market. The goal in all three cases is to provide the level of service and support that each unique group needs and deserves.

Locally Focused Auctions Ensure Dealers Are Heard and Their Needs Are Met

More and more, dealer clients expect a great auction experience. Regardless of auction brand, you need to be assured that the auction is listening to your needs and is working hard to ensure your needs are being met and they’re focused on driving your success. If you’re going to stay local with your inventory acquisition strategy, look for auctions that are nimble and resourceful in finding inventory that’s primarily dealer inventory where you’re buying from and selling to dealers like you.

Auctions focused on the needs of dealers are a priority for Manheim. Each location operates like a small, independent auction where personal relationships, service and providing the right inventory are central to their operational strategy. Manheim’s local auctions are able to focus on bringing in-demand inventory specific to a local market – operating as “matchmaker” between buyer and seller in their own backyard. They’ve got flexibility in putting together deals so more deals get closed.

When selecting a local auction, consider how the auction handles relationships, convenience and value, including:

• How many lanes?
• Are there opportunities at all price ranges?
• What’s the conversion rate?
• What types of sales do they offer (e.g., consignment, salvage, etc.)?
• Is there a family feel at the auction with personal contact?
• Is there a willingness to solve your problems based on your needs?
• Is it willing to customize policies for you needs?
• Is there service after the sale to ensure you get everything you expect and your problems are resolved cheerfully and efficiently?
• Finally, is the auction atmosphere fun and enjoyable?

In the end, you want to feel like you’re getting the most money for your cars and there’s true value in what you’re paying for the auction’s services.

Mobile Auctions Offer the Ultimate in Local Convenience

You need inventory — or you need to get rid of it — but you just can’t travel to an auction. Mobile auctions give you the flexibility to buy or sell close to home because the auction comes to you. Whether it’s on your premises, a fairground, an abandoned lot or some other piece of land, if you’ve got 100 cars to sell, you can host a mobile auction.

One advantage to Manheim Mobile auctions is Simulcast, where the live auction experience is made available online. Also provided are site setup and prep, staging for buyer inspections and all technology and personnel, including an auctioneer and ringman. Generally, mobile auctions also offer full arbitration, buyer protection and post-sale inspections.

For buyers, mobile auctions are better for your bottom line

Since many of these vehicles are $5K and under, mobile auctions are a great opportunity to beef up your inventory while minimizing transportation time and costs. It’s a hassle-free, hometown experience where you get convenient access to select inventory in your local market. There’s one lane for quick and easy views, and financing is always available. Other benefits include lower transportation costs and personalized service.

Mobile auctions have professional arbitration, which brings added confidence to transactions. Title processing adds convenience as well as floor planning. Both of these tools bring added buying power.

For sellers, mobile auctions let you move dealer trades fast

Looking for an easy way to move your dealer trades? Manheim Mobile Auctions have very high conversion rates. There are other positives, too, such as guaranteed funds, a captive audience (no competition), fee and transportation savings, greater control of the sale, above-average MMR and excellent run numbers. While most other mobile auctions don’t have a comparable-quality simulcast service, Manheim’s Simulcast goes to a larger buyer audience, which can result in cars being sold for greater than 100% MMR.

Buy and Sell on Your Terms

Auctions have come a long way and they’re eager to please dealer clients, large and small. If the large format, big city auction isn’t right for you, take a look at local auctions and mobile auctions. They’re the ultimate in convenience and “old-timey,” personalized business, and they’re perfect for the $3K to $5K segment.

Looking Ahead

Manheim is expanding into many smaller cities – places like Cleveland, Norfolk, Wichita, Wilmington, and more to help dealers buy and sell cars more efficiently and in their own local market. To learn more about Manheim Local and Mobile auctions, visit Manheim Mobile Auctions online.