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Buying eBay inventory at storage unit auctions


Storage unit auctions are modern day treasure hunts.

eBay sellers have found all sorts of interesting venues for purchasing inventory to resell on eBay. One fascinating method of inventory procurement is the Storage Unit Auction.

Self-storage facilities hold auctions to evict non-paying tenants. Auctions are usually open to the public and many eBayers and Craigslist sellers frequent these auctions to find treasures to resell.

But, storage unit auctions can be more complicated than just showing up and bidding on items. Here are a few tips to consider if you are new to finding inventory at these auctions.

Be openminded. Most storage units contain household items, clothing, furniture, and office supplies. You may get lucky and uncover a huge collection of something. You may find cash. You may find nothing.

Always bring cash. Usually, cash is the only method of payment accepted.

Bring a large vehicle to haul your treasures away. You will need to have the merchandise off the lot by the end of the day.

Bring all the tools for moving large or heavy items - a pair of hand trucks, bungee cords, blankets, and some strong helpers.

Bring a lock in case you have to lock the unit to leave for any reason.

Have a plan for trash. You won't want to keep every single thing in the storage unit. But, once you win the auction, it is yours and you have to haul it away. Have a plan for taking unwanted items to a Goodwill drop off or a dumpster.

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eBay Examiner

Suzanne Wells, The eBay Coach, has been an eBay Power Seller since 2003. She is a stay at home mom who has sold over 18,000 items worldwide on eBay...

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