How to Register and Get a Bidder Number

Before you can bid at almost any auction, you need to register and receive a bidder number. This guide is for first-time and occasional buyers who want to know what registration involves, what to bring, and how to avoid last-minute problems that keep you from bidding.

Why registration is required

Registration tells the auction company who is bidding, how to reach them and how they plan to pay. Your bidder number is how the auctioneer and clerk identify you during the sale. When you win a lot, the clerk records your number, and that number links the purchase to your account and invoice.

Because your number is tied to you, treat it like a key. Do not lend your bidder card to anyone, and report it right away if you lose it during the sale.

What to bring to register in person

Requirements vary by company and type of sale, so check the sale listing or call ahead. Commonly requested items include:

• A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license.
• Your current address, phone number and email.
• A payment method, which some companies record at registration, especially for high-value sales.
• A resale or tax-exemption certificate, if you are buying for resale and want to claim an exemption.
• A bank letter of guarantee or deposit, sometimes required for real estate, vehicles or expensive equipment.

If you are bidding for a business, you may be asked for the business name and the details of the person authorized to bid on its behalf.

Registering at the sale

At most in-person auctions, there is a registration table or office near the entrance. You fill out a short form or give your details to a clerk, show your ID, and receive a card or paddle with your number on it. Some companies keep your information on file, so returning buyers may only need to confirm their details.

Arrive early. Lines at the registration table can get long just before the first lot, and you do not want to miss an item while waiting.

Pre-registering before sale day

Many auction companies let you register ahead of time by phone, email or through their website. Pre-registering has several advantages:

• It saves time on sale day.
• It gives the company time to approve you if approval is required.
• It lets you ask questions about payment, deposits or exemptions in advance.

Registering for online bidding

If the auction offers online bidding, you will usually create an account on the company's website or on the bidding platform it uses. Expect to provide contact details and, often, a credit card. The card may be used to verify your identity or to place a temporary authorization, depending on the platform.

Online registration often requires approval for each individual sale, even if you already have an account. Approval can take time, so register a day or more before the auction when you can. If approval is pending close to the sale, contact the auction company directly.

Registering for phone or absentee bidding

Phone and absentee bids are usually arranged directly with the auction company. You may need to fill out a separate form listing the lots you are interested in and, for absentee bids, your maximum bid on each. Companies commonly set a deadline for these forms before the sale begins, and may limit phone bidding to lots above a certain estimate.

Read what you sign

When you register, you are usually agreeing to the auction's terms and conditions, whether you sign a paper form or check a box online. Those terms cover the buyer's premium, payment deadlines, pickup rules and how disputes are handled. Take a few minutes to read them, or ask for a copy to review.

Common registration problems

• Expired ID: Check your license before you leave home.
• Card declined for authorization: Let your bank know you may make a large purchase.
• Missing exemption paperwork: Without it, the company will likely charge sales tax.
• Online approval not received: Call the company rather than waiting.
• Wrong contact details: Double-check your email and phone so you receive your invoice and pickup instructions.

Quick checklist

• Check the sale listing for registration requirements.
• Bring a valid photo ID and payment method.
• Bring resale paperwork if you plan to claim an exemption.
• Pre-register or apply for online approval early.
• Read the terms you agree to at registration.
• Keep your bidder number to yourself.