Whether your agency is selling a single item or a full inventory of surplus, following these best practices will help you attract more bidders and get the highest return. If you ever need help, our team is always here to support you.

1) Upload high-quality photos and videos:

Clear, well-lit photos make the biggest difference in how confident bidders feel. Try to show the item from multiple angles, include close-ups of important features or any wear, and capture any model or identification tags. If possible, add a quick walk-around video. Your first photo should always be your best one because it appears everywhere your listing is promoted.

2) Write a complete and honest item description:

A good description helps bidders understand exactly what they're buying. Share the item's condition, operating status, any known issues, measurements, age, usage history, and what is or is not included. Being upfront builds trust and leads to stronger bidding.
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If you want help writing it, our AI Listing Assistant can create a clear, professional description using the information you enter. You can edit it to fit your needs, but it's a great way to make sure your listing starts off strong.

3) Start with a low, competitive starting price:

Low starting prices encourage early bidding. We recommend starting at around 10% of the estimated value or less. Early activity builds momentum and often leads to higher final prices.

4) Only set a reserve if you have a required minimum:

Reserve prices can limit early engagement, so only use one when your agency must meet a specific minimum. Even without a reserve, you are never obligated to accept a bid. If you're not sure whether you need one, we can help you decide.

5) End your auction at an ideal day and time:

The best time to end an auction is Monday through Friday between 9 AM and 9 PM. Avoid holidays or the day before a long holiday weekend, and try to align the end time with any approval meetings your agency must follow. Well-timed closings usually bring in more last-minute bids.

6) Run your auction for 10 to 14 days:
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Listings that stay live for about two weeks consistently perform best. This gives bidders enough time to discover your item, ask questions, and feel ready to bid. Shorter listings often miss potential bidders, and longer listings may lose momentum.

7) Include a contact person:

Even though bidders can use the Q&A feature on the listing page, it helps to include a contact person for questions and scheduling inspections. Sharing a name, email, and/or phone number makes communication easier and builds confidence for anyone interested in your item.

8) Respond quickly to questions:

Fast answers help bidders feel more informed and ready to place a bid. You'll get an email each time someone asks a question on your listing. Responding within a day is ideal and helps keep interest high.

9) Make sure your auction dates match any required public advertising:

Some agencies must run a legal notice or newspaper ad before selling surplus property. If that applies to you, confirm the ad schedule and set your auction dates so the listing opens after the ad is published and stays active for the full required timeframe. This helps you stay compliant and avoids the need to relist anything.

10) Clearly explain payment and pickup details:

Let bidders know how payment works, who they should contact, where pickup will occur, when they need to arrive, and whether any help or equipment is available for loading. Clear expectations make the entire process smoother for both sides.
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If you have any questions along the way, we're always here and happy to help.
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Live Chat: Blue icon at the bottom right of any Municibid page
Email: support@municibid.com
Phone: 800-531-6074 (Option 4)
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Our team is always happy to assist with pricing, descriptions, listing setup, and more.