The equipment and sawmill auction market continues to show resilience as buyer demand remains steady across multiple categories. With recent auctions delivering solid results and upcoming sales featuring premium equipment, early indicators suggest a strong first half of 2025. From the well-attended Michiana auction to the growing momentum behind the Premium Cut Lumber series, the market is proving to be dynamic and promising.
In this report, we break down the latest auction performances, highlight standout categories, and look ahead to major upcoming events that buyers and sellers should have on their radar. Whether you’re tracking trends in skid loaders, sawmill equipment, or high-quality rolling stock, these insights will help you stay informed and make strategic auction decisions.
Michiana Auction – A Steady Market with Strong Demand
The Michiana auction delivered a solid performance, with steady bidding and strong attendance. Eugene Hochstetler described the market as “fair to good,” showing clear improvement from a year ago. The crowd was larger, and the equipment selection expanded some. The auction closed at just under $700,000 in total sales, with several categories performing well.
Skid loaders, scissor lifts, forklifts, and vehicles remained steady, while tractors performed well. Nothing stood out as extraordinary, but the auction maintained a consistent pace from start to finish, reinforcing that demand remains stable.
Ring Two saw particularly strong results for imported equipment, with toolboxes standing out as a top performer. Shipping containers held steady at their usual price range, and attachments also had a strong day.
Premium Cut Lumber Auction – A Growing Success
The recent lumber auction was a success, with good demand from buyers and a satisfied seller that wants to do it again! While prices weren’t through the roof, it was a great start for what we hope to be a continuous project. With momentum building, the next auction on March 24th is set to nearly double in inventory, expanding beyond pallet material to include fence posts and maybe some other products (see the Bid Book for complete catalog). The team is actively working to bring in more consignors and vendors, aiming to establish a long-term trading platform for the lumber industry. Early interest has been promising, and with each auction gaining traction, this series is poised for continued growth.
Hoover Construction Equipment - March 26, Liberty, KY
This will be an exciting auction with lots of quality equipment! From rolling stock to metal working to antique tractors (even a greenhouse!), there will be something for everyone at this event. You may as well get your driver lined up and plan to attend!
Yoder Sawmill Auction – April 4 in Millersburg, OH
Set for April 4th in Millersburg, Ohio, the Yoder Sawmill auction will showcase some of the best sawmill equipment to hit the auction block in recent memory. This is a must attend event for serious buyers looking for late-model, high-quality machinery.
Most of the equipment in this auction is one-owner (new in 2010) and exceptionally well-maintained, making it a rare opportunity to secure top-tier sawmill assets. Rolling stock is still being added, further strengthening the already impressive lineup. Additionally, the Arrowhead Sawmill, owned by E-Pallet, will also be sold on the same day. Located in Fredericksburg, OH, this sale adds even more depth to the auction, with premium sawmill machinery and related equipment available for purchase.
Market Outlook – Strong Pipeline and Continued Demand
With multiple high-quality auctions on the horizon, the equipment market remains strong. The steady performance seen in recent sales suggests that demand is holding firm, and with additional inventory entering the market, buyers will have plenty of opportunities in the coming months.
Between the growing success of the lumber auction series, the premium Wood-Mizer lineup in the IronRing auction, and the top-tier offerings at the Yoder Sawmill sale, the first half of 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting time for the equipment industry.
Mark your calendars for these new auction listings
- Salem Sawmill - Cynthia, KY - April 15 - 9 AM (Virtual)
- Lavern Yoder Sawmill - Marion, KY - April 15 - 11 AM (Virtual)
- Precision Pallets & Lumber - Fort Hill, PA - April 15 - 1 PM (Virtual)
- E&E Sawmill - North Adams, MI - April 15 - 3 PM (Virtual)
- Marlin Hochstetler Farm Auction - Mio, MI - May 23 - (Onsite)
