Anyone ever bought a vehicle at a machinery auction before?

[AeroEngineer]

Someone told me about a machinery auction here in Tampa this weekend where government/fleet surplus vehicles and machinery are sold to the public. I'm looking for a "home depot run" truck, nothing terribly reliable, and I'd like to pay in cash. The local used car market has been slim pickings lately (cash for clunkers?), so this sounded like it could be a good opportunity to find what I need.


Should I expect to get a good deal, or will I probably be paying close to fair market value?

[PeterGriffin]

Depends. Most auctions I've been to I haven't been impressed, prices end up being close to market value, and considering the rush and little time to inspect the vehicle, I'd rather pay a little more to know more about what I'm buying.

If they are actual government fleet vehicles though, IME they're usually very well maintained.

What is the inspection like? Typically they will allow some walk around time and hopefully you can hear 'em run.

[AeroEngineer]

Depends. Most auctions I've been to I haven't been impressed, prices end up being close to market value, and considering the rush and little time to inspect the vehicle, I'd rather pay a little more to know more about what I'm buying.

If they are actual government fleet vehicles though, IME they're usually very well maintained.

What is the inspection like? Typically they will allow some walk around time and hopefully you can hear 'em run.

Yeah, I'm only interested in government vehicles, I know they've been kept up.

I can visually inspect any vehicle, but they will only be started the day of the auction. I might just go this week to see what I can expect. If its worthwhile, I'll come back with money next month.

Thanks peter.