Where can I buy used auction equipment at a fair price?

Used auction equipment often changes hands when companies retire, downsize, or upgrade. Ask around at state auctioneer association meetings, auction schools, and among auctioneers you know. Equipment sometimes shows up at auctions of auction company assets, too. You can also find auction companies in the BidBuySmart directory who may know of equipment for sale.

Test sound systems, printers, and card readers before buying, and ask how old they are and how they were stored. Batteries and wireless microphones wear out, so factor in replacement costs.

Tents, tables, and display cases are good candidates for buying used, as long as frames are straight and fabric is free of tears and mildew. For anything that handles payments or customer data, make sure it is still supported and meets current security requirements before you rely on it.