Understanding
Pre-Bidding vs.
Live Bidding
Auctions at Blue Box Auction Gallery offer two distinct bidding phases: pre-bidding and live bidding. Each phase provides unique opportunities for bidders to secure their desired items. Here’s how they work and how to make the most of each period.
What is
Pre-Bidding
Pre-bidding opens as soon as the auction is listed on our platform. During this phase:
- Bidders have the first opportunity to preview and place bids.
- Max Bid Advantage: You can set a maximum bid, allowing the system to bid incrementally on your behalf against other bidders.
- Bid Visibility: The highest pre-bid at the start of the auction sets the opening bid when live bidding begins.
Pro Tip: Pre-bidding is perfect for those who want to get a head start and secure their maximum bid early.
What is
Live Bidding
When the auctioneer begins calling the auction, pre-bids are aligned to the highest bid from all platforms. At this point:
- The auctioneer announces, “Live bidding has begun.”
- Only live bids, the highest pre-bid, and those placed using the “Max Bid” or “Absentee” feature will be accepted until the fall of the hammer or the auctioneer announces “SOLD”.
- Many of our auctions feature live audio bid calling on auction day, available on our bidding platform at bid.blueboxauction.com. You don’t need to register to watch the auction, making it a great way to observe the process if you’re new to auctions. However, registration is required to place bids.
Pro Tip: Live bidding is fast-paced, so it’s crucial to place and have the auctioneer confirm your bids early to account for any system or broadcast delays.
Key Differences
Pre-Bidding offers a flexible, extended window to research, strategize, and place bids at your convenience before the auction goes live. You can set a Max Bid to let the system bid on your behalf up to your limit, ensuring you stay competitive without needing to monitor the auction in real-time.
Live Bidding is the fast-paced, real-time auction experience where bids are placed and accepted instantly. Unlike pre-bidding, live bidding requires quick decisions as the auctioneer announces the current bid, accepts competing bids, and declares items “SOLD” in a matter of seconds. Participating live allows you to react to bidding activity and adjust your strategy in the moment.
Pro Tip: Live bidding is fast-paced, so it’s crucial to place and have the auctioneer confirm your bids early to account for any system or broadcast delays.
Best Practices
Do Your Research
- Review descriptions, photos, and request additional details at least two business days before the auction.
Use the Max Bid Feature
- Let the system bid automatically for you, ensuring you stay competitive without monitoring the auction in real-time.
Monitor Your Bid Status
- Check back to confirm your bid is still leading as the auction approaches.
Factor in All Costs
- Remember to consider buyer’s premium when setting your max bid.
Mistakes to avoid
Waiting Until the Last Minute
- Pre-bidding allows you to secure a strong position early, don’t wait and risk missing out.
Ignoring Item Details
- Always review condition reports and auction terms before placing a bid.
Not Accounting for Delays
- Live bidding moves fast. If you plan to bid live, set your pre-bids ahead of time as a backup.