In today’s fast-paced world, online auctions are a convenient and efficient way to buy and sell machinery, equipment, and other assets. At Watts & Associates Auctioneers, we combine traditional auction expertise with modern technology to make online bidding simple, transparent, and accessible for everyone. We have put together this guide to help people navigate the process.

1. Browsing and Finding Lots

Our website features detailed listings of all our lots with:

• High-quality images and videos
• Descriptions to include various details such as the make, model, year of manufacture, and more
• Lot numbers for easy reference
• A ‘Watchlist’, so you can save lots for later

All of the above allows buyers to research and compare items from the comfort of their home or office.

We also have specified viewing days for each auction which is an opportunity to visit site and inspect the lots in person. With the information above, many buyers feel confident to bid on lots without doing so, but have the option to do so either way.

2. Registering to Bid

Before placing a bid, buyers must first register online for an account, which is a straightforward process:

• Fill out a short registration form via our website (“Register to bid” -> “Create an account“)
• Agree to our auction terms and conditions
• Provide proof of ID & address via email
• Give our office team a quick call on 01226 247591 for approval. It will only take a few minutes, but we need to briefly speak with you to confirm a few details

Your account will then be approved for bidding!

3. Placing Bids

Our auctions are hosted in 2 main formats – Live Auctions and Timed Auctions. The bidding for these works slightly differently:

Timed Auctions:

• Enter your bid amount directly on the lot page
• The system will confirm whether your bid is the current highest
• Option to enter a maximum bid and let the system bid incrementally on your behalf
• Be notified via email if you are outbid
• The system will count-down to the end time
• If someone bids within the last 5 minutes, the system will extend the bidding by a further 5 minutes (to allow the under-bidder chance to bid again)

Live Auctions:

• Enter your maximum bid on the lot page and allow the system to bid incrementally for you

OR

• Watch the live stream webcast (link found at the top of the auction catalogue) and bid in real time!

If you are bidding on the live stream webcast, you will need to click the ‘activate to bid’ button, on each lot that you want to bid on.

4. Winning and Payment

If you are the highest bidder when the auction closes, congratulations! Here’s what happens next:

• You will receive an invoice via email
• Payment can be made via bank transfer or debit card in the office

Once we receive payment, we will issue you a paid invoice via email.

5. Arrange collection 

Our yard is open on Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

We are equipped with forklifts, telehandlers, and loading ramps. We understand lorry space is valuable, and our experienced yard team are excellent at getting tricky items to fit!

If you have only bought a few small items and would like them securing to a pallet for courier collection  – just let us know!

If you need any help organising transport, we have a dedicated section on our website to help you – https://wattsauctions.co.uk/transport-hauliers-and-shippers/ 

Our team is always available to help with any questions on 01226 247591 or via email at info@wattsauctions.co.uk 

Ready to experience the excitement of online auctions? Visit our website at www.wattsauctions.co.uk to browse upcoming lots, register, and join our growing community of buyers and sellers!