News

Published on 2/5/2020 on AgDirect

An emphasis on used equipment due to the downturn in the ag economy has increased the number of machinery auctions in recent years.

“Current auction prices are strong and we’re continuing to see a lot of bidding activity across all equipment categories,” says Mark Stock, president and co-owner of BigIron.

Stock says demand for older-model tractors has been high for two reasons – either producers can’t afford the high-tech bells and whistles driving up newer-model prices, or they prefer an older tractors’ reliability, ease of function and repair.

A significant spike in retirement sales has also played a role in supplying a steady stream of used equipment inventory and motivating buyer interest.  

“Last year we held 239 retirement sales,” says Stock. “When you have that many producers transitioning out of farming, there’s bound to be some good equipment bargains.”

Traditional vs. Online

When it comes to buying used equipment at a traditional auction versus an online sale there are various pros and cons to consider. 

Traditional auctions allow potential buyers to examine the machinery up close and ask questions before bidding. At a local sale, buyers may have personal knowledge of the equipment’s servicing background and how well it was maintained and cared for.

In a live setting, buyers can also feel the satisfaction of shaking hands with the seller and going home with their purchase after placing the winning bid, but traditional auctions aren’t always convenient when factoring in time and travel.

In contrast, online auctions give buyers the freedom to shop for the best deal by narrowing their search and widening their geography from the convenience of their computer, tablet or smartphone.

“We started to see a shift toward online auctions between 2007 to 2009,” says Stock. “BigIron online auctions mirror traditional auctions by including pictures and videos of the equipment along with the owner’s name and phone number to help buyers feel just as confident with their bids.”

“With online auctions you don’t to worry about the weather or rely on the availability of the auctioneer, and bidding can take place 24 hours a day,” he adds.

Stock says online auctions also allow sellers to be more strategic in selling their equipment lines throughout the calendar year rather than at a one-day sale.

For example, a seller might start by listing their planter, sprayer or haying equipment in the first few months of the year before readying their combine or grain cart ahead of harvest.

“Do your due diligence before bidding online,” advises Stock. “Call the owner and ask questions, watch the video footage of the machinery when available and read the descriptions carefully. The most important thing is to focus on is whether the equipment will work for your operation at the price it is being sold.”

Auction Financing

As the auction market has grown, equipment financing companies like AgDirect have responded with faster, streamlined services.

“At auction, payment is typically due the day of or within 48 hours of the sale,” explains Stock. “AgDirect has done a great job of catering to those lending needs.”

AgDirect offers competitive finance and lease options for machinery purchased through traditional and online auctions, along with the same attractive interest rates for both new and used equipment.

Producers planning to bid at an upcoming auction can benefit from a fast and simple application process that can be completed online, in person or over the phone.

Here’s how it works:

• Step 1: The process beings by working with an AgDirect team member to complete an application. It’s a good idea to complete this step at least two days prior to the auction.
• Step 2: A credit decision is returned to the applicant, typically within 2 hours.
• Step 3: Once approved, the applicant is free to bid at auction. AgDirect will provide an auction approval letter if proof of financing is needed.  
• Step 4: Bill of sale is procured.
• Step 5: Lien searchers are completed on the buyer and seller to ensure the equipment is free and clear of debt or other obligations.
• Step 6: An AgDirect team member provides the required financing documents.
• Step 7: Documents are reviewed, electronically signed and returned to AgDirect.
• Step 8: Finally, funds are disbursed for the sale.

“Unlike financing an equipment purchase at the dealership, auction financing requires the completion of a lien search, but it’s a step we handle on behalf of our customers to protect their best interests,” says Aaron McWhirter, AgDirect auction and private party representative.

“Whether you’re looking to purchase equipment through a traditional auction or online, we can help you get the financing you need before the sale so you can bid with confidence,” he says. “In cases where financing is needed after a bid has been won, we can also offer auction financing as a refinancing option for purchases made within 90 days of the sale.”

Learn more about auction financing by locating your nearest AgDirect territory manager or contacting the AgDirect financing team at 888-525-9805.