This comprehensive guide explains how to access and participate in Copart's used and salvage car auctions. It covers registration, membership options, bidding process, locating vehicles, and finalizing purchases, helping buyers navigate the auction system efficiently and increase their chances of winning desired vehicles safely and legally.

Comprehensive Guide to Participating in Copart Used & Salvage Car Auctions

Looking to buy damaged or used vehicles for repairs, parts, or resale? Copart provides a vast inventory of cars suitable for various needs. Understanding local laws and obtaining necessary licenses can help smooth the bidding process. Some regions require brokers or dealerships for certain transactions, so staying informed on regulations is crucial.

Register with Copart Today
Joining Copart as a member grants access to a wide selection of salvage and used vehicles. The registration process is straightforward—just follow a few steps to start bidding right away.

Complete the registration form with your details.

Receive login credentials via email after registration.

Use these credentials to access your account.

Sign in from the homepage once your account is active.

Choose between Basic or Premier memberships and complete payment.

Upload required verification documents like IDs or business licenses. Approval typically takes around two days before you can bid.

Initially, members can only browse and monitor vehicles unless they upgrade their membership.

To enhance bidding capacity and participate actively, consider upgrading your membership or making deposits. Premier members benefit from higher bidding limits and do not need deposits for multiple bids. Upgrades require an annual fee and refundable deposits, ideal for high-volume buyers. Basic members can improve their limits by depositing funds without necessarily upgrading.

Begin Bidding

Both Basic and Premier members can join no-license auctions with valid IDs and deposits. For licensed vehicles, working with authorized brokers or registering as a business is often necessary. Several brokers are approved to facilitate bidding for licensed vehicle sales.

Locate Vehicles for Sale

Utilize the Vehicle Finder tool by entering keywords like "Copart auto auction near me." Filter results by categories such as Copart Select or Hot Items. New listings are added regularly, so frequent visits to the website help stay updated.

Participate in Bidding Events

After shortlisting a vehicle, submit pre-bids or participate in live online auctions. An account is required for active bidding. View live auctions in the 'Today’s Auctions' section or check the Auction Calendar for upcoming events. The Copart Mobile App allows you to bid remotely, viewing real-time updates and current offers.

Bid and Win Vehicles

Place bids beforehand or during the auction. Bids are accepted until shortly before the lot closes. Use your smartphone, computer, or broker to bid, and take advantage of automatic bidding options. The highest bid at the auction's end wins, with sellers potentially counter-bidding if minimum prices or pending statuses apply.

Complete Payment & Collection

Pay for your winning vehicle through the available payment methods. Some options are specific to domestic transactions. After payment completion, coordinate the pickup or delivery of your vehicle as per the auction's procedures.