Introduction
When it comes to selling heavy equipment, trucks and trailers, the way you present your equipment can significantly impact the success of your sale. With IronRing's monthly virtual auction, staging your equipment properly is crucial. Here are some expert tips to help you prepare your heavy machinery for auction and ensure it catches the right eyes.
Note: If you have several high dollar pieces, a fleet, or are selling a complete liquidation, Bright Star handles ALL these details for you!
Table of Contents:
1. Deep Clean and Detail
First impressions are everything in an auction. A thorough cleaning, inside and out, including pressure washing to remove mud and grime, touching up paint, and polishing chrome accents, can make your equipment look almost new and highly appealing to potential buyers.
2. Minor Repairs and Maintenance
Addressing minor issues can greatly increase the value of your equipment. Simple actions like replacing worn bulbs, tightening loose bolts, adding air to the tires, and lubricating parts can demonstrate to buyers that the equipment has been well-maintained and is ready to go to work.
3. Staging and Positioning
How you arrange your equipment matters. Ensure the setting is clean and organized, allowing easy movement and inspection. A recommended setting to take photos would be in front of a building, in an empty field, or in front of a row of trees. It is not advisable to have other equipment in the background when you take your photos. The position of the sun (or lack thereof) can have a big impact on how your photos will look on a screen.
4. Stage Equipment in Working Condition (if possible)
Demonstrating key functions, like starting engines, moving the bucket up and down, forward and reverse, can be more persuasive than static images, showing buyers the equipment is in good working order.
5. Prepare High-Quality Photos and Videos
Invest in professional photography (or do it yourself) and create short action videos to showcase your equipment’s best features. Videos should be 1-2 minutes and feature the machine in action. Detailed close-up photos of major components can also be a significant selling point. Try to take 50-100 photos of each piece of equipment. Photos should be from all angles from the outside, a few of the cab, several of the motor and then the tires, tracks, undercarriage, and all moving parts. You can visit our website https://brightstarauctions.com/auction-results/ to see thousands of pictures of machines that we have sold in the past.
Here are a few resources and how to guides to help you take your own pictures using your phone or tablet:
- Apple: https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/camera-basics-iph263472f78/ios
- HubSpot - https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/good-pictures-phone-tips
- https://www.theschoolofphotography.com/tutorials/how-to-take-good-photos-with-a-phone
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs4S07E5NC0R7pVuzBJ0e8Q
6. Write Compelling Descriptions
Your descriptions should be both accurate and comprehensive, including key specifications, model years, hours of operation, and any recent upgrades. Always include the manufacturer, make, year, model, and serial number. Highlight what makes your equipment unique. Please note all defects to the machine and be completely honest and transparent. Doing this will build buyer confidence, resulting in more competitive bidding for your equipment.
7. Gather Maintenance Records and Manuals
Providing documentation such as service logs and user manuals can build trust with potential buyers and show responsible ownership. Make sure to have your title in order before attempting to sell your equipment.
8. Provide Accessible Inspection
Allow potential buyers to freely inspect and test the equipment under supervision. Being open and honest about any concerns can build credibility. We request that you allow inspection to potential buyers the day before the auction from 8-4.
Conclusion
Properly staging your heavy equipment for IronRing's monthly virtual auctions can significantly enhance your chances of a successful outcome. By following these tips, you can present your machinery in the best light, attracting more buyers and potentially higher bids.
