How to Create a Private Auction for Free

Do you want to sell something to a specific target audience? Or would you rather decide for yourself who is allowed to bid? Then a private auction is just right for you. In this step-by-step guide, you'll learn how to create a private auction for free with Auctionizer.

Create an Auction

You don't need a user account to create an auction on Auctionizer. You can enter all the details about your item in four simple steps using the wizard.

Step 1: Description

Describe your item and its condition as thoroughly and accurately as possible. Pictures speak louder than words, so be sure to add a few photos showing the item from different angles.

In the "Conditions" field, you can specify which payment methods you accept, what deadlines apply, or how the item will be delivered. These details are important to avoid problems after the auction ends.

Step 2: Settings

In the settings, you can define the starting price, currency, and bidding increments. You also have options to limit the pool of potential bidders. You can either restrict bids to certain countries or enable bidder verification. In this case, bidders must apply first before they can place a bid. You will then receive an email with the bidder's contact details so you can review and approve them. This helps prevent fake bids or incomplete information.

However, this might discourage potential bidders since you'll see their contact information even if they don't win the auction. Carefully weigh what's more important to you – more control or as many bids as possible.

Step 3: Contact Information

So that the winner can contact you after the auction ends, your contact details are required. On the auction page, only your name and country will be displayed. If you don't want your full name to appear on the listing page, you can set an alias instead.

We care about your privacy! Your contact details will never be sold or used for any other purpose. Learn more in our Privacy Policy.

Step 4: Terms

Finally, you'll need to accept the Terms and Conditions.

Review and Start Your Auction

After creating your auction, you'll receive an admin link via email, which you can use to manage your auction.

Initially, the auction will be in preview mode. This means no bids can be placed yet. As long as it hasn't started, you can make changes to the description and settings using the admin link. Double-check everything carefully before clicking "Start Auction".

Share the Link to Your Auction

Once the auction has started, you can share the link with your interested parties or target audience. Make sure you send them the auction link and not the admin link. ;)

If you notice a mistake in the description or settings, you can delete the auction as long as no bids have been placed yet.

Auction End

If bids have been placed, the contact details between you and the winner will be automatically exchanged after the auction ends. Please get in touch promptly to discuss the next steps.

The auction will remain online for another 90 days after it ends before being automatically removed by our system.