According to the results of 2024, a total of over 9 million cars were sold through existing auction platforms in the USA. Among them were both practically new SUVs and a number of rare, collectible and exclusive models.
In practice, buying through auctions allows you to save about 40% compared to prices on the local market. But the benefit largely depends on how well you manage to choose the platform.
Today we will tell you about 5 proven and reputable auction platforms in the USA.
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What difficulties can you encounter when buying a car in 2025
- Increase in cost: Used car prices have increased significantly in the last few years. The average is around 20-30%.
- Limited choice: Local markets usually offer a small selection, especially for cars less than 5 years old.
- Purchase risks: Sellers may hide real mileage or technical defects.
- Taxes and additional costs: Many countries have increased fees for registration and secondary market purchases.
To avoid these risks, buying directly from US auctions is a smart choice — offering official condition reports and 20-40% lower prices.
The Best American Auction Platforms
Below are some of the top car auction platforms in the US:
Copart
- Basic Membership: $59/year, Premium: $199/year
- Buyer’s Premium: ~$70 for a $1,000 car
- Online Bid Fee: $39–$49
- Side Fee: $59
- Storage Fee: $20/day after the free period
IAAI (Insurance Auto Auctions)
- Membership: $200
- Service Fee: $95 per lot
- Environmental Fee: $15 per unit
- Additional fees vary by volume, license type, etc.
Manheim
- Membership: $99/year
- Purchase Fee: $350 + 2% for cars up to $2,000; $450 + 2% for higher-priced cars
- Administrative Fee: $88
- Other fees for payment, storage, etc.
Carfast Express
This platform provides access to all of the above auctions without requiring separate registration or a dealer license. Benefits include:
- Access to all major US auctions
- Free 30-day storage in US terminals
- Secure loading with video and photo documentation
- Dealer access reduces commissions by 5%
- No mandatory membership fees
Additional services:
- Car inspection: $30 – full condition check with photos and video
- VIN check: Legal status and safety verification
- Logistics: Delivery, documentation, customs support
How to Choose the Right Auction
- Auction type: Some specialize in accident or insurance vehicles (50% savings), others require a broker.
- Fee structure: Copart uses variable fees, IAAI offers fixed rates, brokers may charge flat or percentage fees.
- Logistics & geography: Shipping from the East Coast is cheaper; Carfast Express offers terminals and better rates.
- Lot history: Always check the VIN and avoid blind purchases.
Helpful Hint: Always check the window sticker by VIN before bidding — it reveals full trim, factory options, MSRP, paint and interior codes, often missing from reports or photos.
Car auctions in the USA are a real and valuable opportunity to buy a quality vehicle 20-50% cheaper than locally. To avoid mistakes, work with professional brokers who can guide the process, handle logistics, and ensure legal compliance.
