Customs auctions off seized items. This also includes cars. Anyone looking for a new used car should definitely take advantage of this goldmine. The best tips on how you can buy cars from customs!
What is a customs auction?
Foreclosure of real estate is no longer a secret. If you can’t pay your debts, you have to give up your home for it. Only a few consumers know that customs also conduct such auctions.
Background: Since 2009, tax offices have had to forward seized cars to customs. Since cars have a relatively high value, they are popular in foreclosure proceedings. In addition, retired government vehicles come under the hammer. The Federal Ministry of Finance in Bonn takes care of organizing the auctions.
Types of Cars Available at Customs Auctions
Customs auctions are a treasure trove for car enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. The variety of cars available is impressive, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs. Whether you’re in the market for a sleek rear wheel drive sedan, a practical front wheel drive sedan, or a versatile wheel drive wagon, customs auctions have something for everyone.
You can find everything from luxury cars with leather trim and advanced features to family-friendly vehicles equipped with power windows and air conditioning. Popular models from well-known brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Holden often make an appearance, offering reliable options for everyday use.
For those with a taste for the extraordinary, customs auctions occasionally feature high-performance cars, classic cars, and even rare vehicles that are hard to find elsewhere. In addition to passenger cars, you might come across light commercial vehicles, buses, and trucks, making these auctions a great place to find a variety of vehicles for different purposes.
The types of cars available can vary depending on the specific auction and the vehicles being sold. Some auctions may specialize in certain types of vehicles, such as luxury cars or classic cars, providing a unique opportunity to find exactly what you’re looking for. With such a diverse selection, customs auctions are a fantastic option for anyone looking to buy a car.
How can I buy cars from customs?
The procedure is quick and simple:
- first you need to register on the portal.
- now you log in.
- bid on interesting vehicles.
- you have to wait for the auction to end. The auction can be cancelled at any time. When the owner pays his debts, the lien is released. This can also happen during a car auction.
- if the bid was successful, you have to pay for the car by bank transfer. In rare cases, cash payment is also possible.
- now you can pick up the car at the given address.
Usually an auction runs for 14 days. Within this period you can make a binding bid. The amount depends on the specifications of the bidder. The tax office sets an initial bid. In addition, a certain minimum bid must be reached.
Bids are made according to the following pattern:
- from 100 to $500, the bidding increments are 10 euros each
- up to $1000 you have to raise by 20 Euro
- up to $5000 the steps are 50 Euro
- above $5000 you have to add 100 Euro or more
In general, higher bids are also possible. You can increase a price of 360 euros immediately to 1,240 euros. Only the upper minimum increments have to be observed. The last bid must last five minutes. If someone outbids you one minute before the end, the auction will be extended by at least four minutes.
Legal framework
As already mentioned, an auction can be cancelled according to § 3 para. 8 of the auction conditions. Therefore you should check if you really won the customs auction of the car.
Please note: According to § 3 para. 4 of the auction conditions no revocation is possible. You must hope for a higher bid from a fellow bidder. Otherwise you are obligated to pay and pick up the vehicle. Therefore, you should carefully consider whether you really want to buy the car. We strongly advise against bidding for fun. Customs will not take a joke.
Normally you have to pick up the vehicle within 10 days. If you exceed this deadline, you will have to pay additional fees for the parking space.
According to § 4 para. 2 of the auction conditions, the warranty is excluded. No claims can be made due to a material defect. There is also no warranty.
You must read the description carefully. If you miss the point that the vehicle was not roadworthy, you are out of luck. A return is not possible at the customs auction of the car.
Inspecting and Evaluating Cars at Auction
When it comes to buying a car at a customs auction, inspecting and evaluating the vehicle is crucial to ensure you make a smart purchase. Here are some essential steps to follow:
- Thorough Inspection: Before placing a bid, take the time to inspect the car thoroughly. Look for any signs of damage or wear on both the exterior and interior. Check for scratches, dents, and other imperfections that might affect the car’s value.
- Mechanical Check: Pop the hood and examine the engine, transmission, and other mechanical components. Ensure everything is in good working condition and there are no obvious issues.
- Safety Features: Verify that the car’s safety features, such as airbags, ABS brakes, and power steering, are functional. These features are critical for your safety and the car’s overall performance.
- Service History: Review the car’s service history and any available maintenance records. A well-documented service history indicates that the car has been properly cared for, reducing the risk of future problems.
- Professional Opinion: If possible, consider having a mechanic inspect the car before you bid. A professional can provide a detailed assessment of the car’s condition and help you avoid costly surprises.
- Market Value: Evaluate the car’s market value and compare it to the auction price. This will help you determine if you’re getting a fair deal and prevent overbidding.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the auctioneer or seller about any concerns you may have. Clear communication can provide additional insights and help you make a more informed decision.
By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the auction process and find a car that meets your needs and budget. Remember, a thorough inspection and evaluation are key to avoiding unexpected issues and ensuring a successful purchase.
Customs car auction: advantages and disadvantages
Since it is a government institution, you can assume a serious processing. As a rule, the goods are described correctly and accurately. For this purpose, the vehicle is inspected by an expert and competently evaluated. An inspection of the car is possible after making an appointment. The contact details are deposited in the offer description.
Before publication, each vehicle is inspected. You can see the exact condition in the description. The report is free of charge and can be viewed without registration. After registration you will be spared from spam mails. Zoll-Auktion is a government platform and therefore does not advertise.
Tip: You don’t have to sit at the computer all the time to bid for a car from customs. For this there is the bidding agent. The function automatically bids up to a maximum bid set by you.
A small disadvantage is the limited supply. Buying a car at auction from customs is a matter of luck. Maybe just the right vehicle is there. However, you should not hope for too large a selection. Usually about 100-500 vehicles are auctioned. Some vehicles may also come equipped with cruise control, adding to the convenience and comfort for long drives.
The biggest minus point remains the lack of warranty.
Arguments at a glance:
- reputable contract partner
- Inspection by an expert
- Bargain possible
- no risk of fraud as with private purchases
- convenient online processing
- automatic bidding agent
- limited offer
- owner can redeem car during auction
- warranty and guarantee excluded
- no shipping of the car by forwarding agency
Is there a reasonable alternative?
Car auctions from customs only take place via customs auction. Thus, the tax offices have a central point of contact. The situation is different in the free market. There are numerous online auction portals. This is an advantage because you can choose the best provider. In addition, there is a much wider range of available vehicles.
Info: The biggest difference is the warranty. Normal online auction portals offer this service. At the Zoll Auto Auction, there is no warranty obligation in principle. If you want this protection service, you are better off with a classic online portal.
If you buy seized cars from customs, you take no risk. All offers are serious and there is no fraud. With a normal online auction house, a dubious auction can sneak in.
However, auctions remain pure luck. You have to find the right vehicle. Therefore, you should look around on all portals to find the perfect car.