This article is for buyers. It guides you block by block through reading a listing, so you know exactly what you're buying, under what conditions, and where you'll need to collect the item.
Summary
- A listing is organized into blocks: photos, bidding, participation conditions, description, documents, sale information, viewing and collection, seller, and questions and answers.
- The bidding block changes depending on whether the sale is upcoming, ongoing, or ended.
- Every listing includes at least four photos of the actual item.
- Always read the
Participation conditionsandViewing and collectionblocks before bidding.
1. The top of the page
Here you'll find:
- a breadcrumb trail, to go back to the item's category or the homepage;
- the listing's title;
- the sale the item belongs to, with a link to all the items it contains;
- the location: country, city, and postal code, taken from the collection location;
- a button to add the item to your favorites, available once you're logged in.
2. Photos and videos
The first photo is displayed large, the following ones as thumbnails. Click a thumbnail to enlarge it.
Every listing has at least four photos, often more. Look at all of them: any defects are visible there, and they are part of what you're buying.
3. The bidding block
This is the heart of the listing. Its content depends on the sale's status.
Upcoming sale
You'll see the opening date and time, a blue Upcoming badge, and the starting price.
Ongoing sale
You'll see the countdown to closing, a green Ongoing badge, the number of bids already placed, and the current bid amount. If the item has a reserve price, the listing indicates whether it has been reached.
You have a field to enter your amount, quick bid suggestions, and an automatic bidding option.
A banner always shows you whether you're the highest bidder, or whether you've been outbid.
Ended sale
You'll see the closing date and time, the Ended status, the number of bids, and the final price.
4. Participation conditions
Some items are not open to all bidders. When that's the case, a dedicated block appears below the bidding block.
It specifies:
- the allowed profiles: professionals, automotive professionals, machine tool dealers, rolling stock and public works equipment dealers;
- the required documents: proof of business registration for a sale reserved for professionals, ID when the item requires it.
Plan ahead: submit your documents before the sale closes. Validating them takes a little time, and without it you won't be able to bid.
5. The item description
Details are grouped by theme: general information, item condition, technical information, additional information, documents, miscellaneous, accessories, and options.
The themes shown depend on the item's category: a vehicle doesn't require the same information as a lot of furniture.
6. Documents
Depending on the category, the listing may include a registration certificate, a certificate of conformity, an inspection report, or other supporting documents. Check them: they usefully complement the description.
7. Sale information
Information | What it means |
Type of sale | Public auction: we handle payment and secure the transaction until the item is delivered. Brokered sale: we connect buyer and seller, who organize payment, viewing, and collection between themselves. |
Start and end dates | The period during which you can bid. |
Starting price | The amount from which bidding starts. |
VAT rate | The tax regime that applies to the item, to include in your calculation. |
Item number | The reference to mention in any exchange with us. |
General terms | The terms applicable to this sale. |
Your bid amount is not the final amount: fees are added to it, as well as VAT where applicable. The summary shown when you bid gives you the full cost.
8. Viewing and collection
This block indicates whether a viewing is possible and on what dates, as well as the item's collection details.
The exact collection address is only shared after payment. Before bidding, check the city shown at the top of the listing and make sure you can travel there and transport the item.
9. The seller
This block gives you access to the seller's page, where you'll find all their items for sale.
10. Questions and answers
You can ask the seller a question from this block, and view exchanges already published. Start by reading them: your question may already have been answered.
11. Similar items
At the bottom of the page, comparable items are suggested to you. This is a good way to compare prices before making your move.
Our tips
- Read the listing completely before bidding: a bid commits you.
- Compare the description and photos: if in doubt, ask a question or come see the item.
- Calculate your total budget: bid, fees, any VAT, transport.
- Note the closing date and collection location before making your move.
Frequently asked questions
Is the displayed price the final price?
No. Fees are added to your bid amount, as well as VAT when it applies. The summary shown when you bid gives you the total.
What does "reserve price not met" mean?
The seller has set a minimum amount below which they are not obligated to sell. Until it is reached, the sale can close without being awarded, even if bids have been placed.
Why isn't the exact address shown?
To protect sellers' sites. Only the city appears before the sale; the full address is provided to you after your payment.
Can I bid on an item reserved for professionals?
Only if your account matches the required profile and the necessary documents have been validated.
What's the difference between a public auction and a brokered sale?
In a public auction, we handle payment and secure the transaction. In a brokered sale, we connect the parties, who organize payment, viewing, and collection between themselves.
The details are incomplete, what should I do?
Ask your question from the listing's questions and answers block: the answer will be visible to all interested buyers.