Calculating Your Total Cost on AutoBidMaster

Before bidding on or buying a vehicle through an online salvage auction platform like AutoBidMaster.com, make sure your budget covers the total cost, not just the vehicle’s sale price. Factor in auction fees, documentation fees, shipping costs, and other potential expenses.

Let’s start with the basics.

What Is AutoBidMaster

AutoBidMaster is an online platform that lets you bid on salvage vehicles. We are a registered broker for Copart, one of the largest car auction companies in the world.

What makes AutoBidMaster stand out is that it gives users access to vehicles that would otherwise be available only to licensed dealers.

Our platform offers a huge inventory of cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, boats, and other vehicles from sources such as banks, insurance companies, rental companies, and dealerships.

Key Features and Services: 

Now let’s take a look at the key features and services on AutoBidMaster.

1. Wide Selection of Vehicles: One of AutoBidMaster’s biggest advantages is its extensive vehicle inventory, including salvage, clean-title, and rebuilt-title vehicles.
2. User-Friendly Interface: AutoBidMaster’s platform is easy to navigate, with tools that let you search, filter listings, and access detailed vehicle information, including photos, VINs, and condition reports.
3. Membership Options: AutoBidMaster lets you choose your membership level. Each level offers different benefits. These include lower AutoBidMaster fees, access to advanced tools, and enhanced customer support.
4. Bidding and Buying: Users can place bids from the comfort of their homes. The bidding process is transparent, allowing users to see the current highest bid and make informed decisions.
5. Vehicle Inspection and History Reports: Interested buyers can get a history report on the vehicle they want to purchase. They can also request a physical inspection to better assess the vehicle’s condition.
6. Shipping and Transportation: AutoBidMaster assists buyers with vehicle shipping by providing quotes and logistics support for domestic and international deliveries.
7. Customer Support: AutoBidMaster offers customer support through multiple channels. These include phone, email, and live chat.

AutoBidMaster Benefits:

• Cost Savings: If you buy a car through AutoBidMaster, you can save a lot of money compared to purchasing from a traditional dealership. Use the AutoBidMaster fee calculator to estimate the total purchase cost.
• Accessibility: AutoBidMaster is accessible to everyone. Individuals without dealer licenses can bid on a wide selection of vehicles.
• Convenience: Online auctions let you browse vehicles and place bids from the comfort of your home, without having to attend an auction in person.

Overall, AutoBidMaster simplifies buying vehicles at auction prices. The platform also provides tools and resources to help buyers make informed decisions and find vehicles that meet their needs and budgets.

Calculating Your Total Cost on AutoBidMaster

Calculating the total AutoBidMaster cost involves more than checking the winning bid. You also need to account for AutoBidMaster fees, shipping, taxes, and any additional expenses, such as licensing or vehicle repairs. The following step-by-step guide explains what to include in your budget before bidding.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Winning Bid

The winning bid is the final amount you are willing to pay for a vehicle at auction, excluding additional fees.

2. AutoBidMaster Fees

Beyond the winning bid, consider AutoBidMaster fees, plus transaction, membership, and documentation fees. The transaction fee depends on the winning bid amount, while the AutoBidMaster membership fee depends on your selected plan. Documentation fees cover the paperwork associated with your purchase.

3. Auction Fees

The auction fees you pay on each vehicle are determined by your membership level.

• Basic members ($35/year) pay a flat $299 transaction fee per vehicle.
• Advanced members ($189/year) pay 5% of the vehicle’s sale price or $299, whichever is greater.
• Premium members ($349/year) pay 4% of the vehicle’s sale price or $150, whichever is greater.

Higher membership tiers may help reduce transaction fees, even after accounting for their annual membership costs. Keep in mind that Basic members can only bid up to $2,200 and are limited to one vehicle purchase before upgrading.

Copart auction fees also depend on the final bid amount. A separate documentation fee covers title reassignment and mailing costs. You can find a breakdown of these charges on each vehicle’s listing page. Below the maximum bid field, the “Fees Calculator” provides an estimate of the applicable purchase fees.

At the end of the auction, your total purchase cost includes the vehicle’s sale price (your final bid), Copart auction fees, AutoBidMaster transaction fees, and documentation fees.

In certain cases, such as vehicles listed with “Biohazard/Chemical” damage, additional fees may apply. Check the “Fees Calculator” for an estimate of the applicable charges before placing your bid.

4. Payment Processing Fees

These are the fees charged by banks or payment processors for transferring funds. Fees vary by bank; some charge less, while others charge more.

5. Shipping Costs

That’s not all you need to consider, though: you’ll also need to factor in vehicle shipping. Every lot listing on AutoBidMaster has a vehicle shipping quote calculator from EasyHaul.com, a company we’ve partnered with for years. If you’re buying a vehicle from an online car auction based in Kansas City and you live in California, your shipping quote will be much higher than if you’re buying from an online car auction in Oregon or Arizona, for example. To cut shipping costs, use the search filters to specify locations and find a vehicle closer to you.

Overall, you can find the information you need on the vehicle’s listing page. The “Fees Calculator” shows the estimated purchase fees for your maximum bid. Add the shipping quote displayed on the right side of the page, along with any applicable taxes and other expenses, to estimate your total cost.

Keep in mind that vehicles may incur storage fees, which vary by salvage yard. Most yards start charging storage fees two days after the vehicle is awarded, and the buyer is responsible for these costs. So pay for your vehicle and shipping as soon as possible to avoid accumulating storage and late payment fees and keep your total price in line with your calculations.

One more thing: while it isn’t required, we highly recommend getting a ClearVin VIN Check Report. A quick car VIN number lookup can provide information on a car’s accident history, service records, and more. This data can be valuable when dealing with used vehicles.

Advanced and Premium members get motor vehicle records from ClearVin, while other buyers can purchase a single ClearVin report for $10.99. Consider adding this expense to your total budget. It’s a worthwhile investment.

Now that you have a better idea of a vehicle’s total cost at the end of an auction, take a look at our available lots and start bidding!

6. Additional Costs

In addition to AutoBidMaster fees and shipping fees, there are other costs to consider:

• Inspection Fees: If you choose to have the vehicle inspected. 
• Storage Fees: If you don’t pick up the vehicle within a certain period. 
• Title Processing Fees: Fees for processing the vehicle’s title.

7. Taxes and Licensing

Depending on your state, you may also need to account for taxes and licensing fees. These include the following:

• Sales Tax: Depending on your state or country, you may need to pay sales tax on the purchase.
• Registration Fees: Costs associated with registering the vehicle in your name.
• Environmental Fees: Any applicable fees for emissions testing or environmental impact.

Example Calculation

So, how can you calculate the total cost without using the auction fee calculator? Let’s assume you won an auction with a $5,000 bid. Here’s how to estimate your total cost:

1. Winning Bid: $5,000
2. AutoBidMaster Fees:
   • Transaction Fee: $250 (example rate; actual rate varies)
   • Documentation Fee: $50
3. Auction Fees:
   • Auction House Fees: $300 (example rate; check actual fee schedule)
4. Payment Processing Fees:
   • Bank Transfer Fee: $30
5. Shipping Costs:
   • Domestic Shipping: $500 (varies based on distance and location)
6. Additional Costs:
   • Inspection Fee: $150
   • Storage Fee: $50 (if applicable)
7. Taxes and Licensing:
   • Sales Tax: $350 (based on 7% sales tax rate)
   • Registration Fee: $100
   • Environmental Fee: $25

Total Estimated Cost:

• Winning Bid: $5,000
• AutoBidMaster Fees: $300
• Auction Fees: $300
• Payment Processing Fees: $30
• Shipping Costs: $500
• Additional Costs: $200
• Taxes and Licensing: $475

Total Estimated Cost: $6,805

As you can see, you can easily estimate the total cost even without using the car auction fee calculator.

Tools and Resources

There are also tools available to make the process easier. These include:

• AutoBidMaster Calculator: Use AutoBidMaster’s car auction fee calculator to estimate auction fees.
• Shipping Calculator: An online shipping calculator can help you estimate vehicle shipping costs.
• Tax and Licensing Information: Check with your local DMV or equivalent agency for accurate tax rates and registration fees.

By considering these factors, you can get a clear estimate of your total cost when purchasing a vehicle through AutoBidMaster.

Calculating Your Total Cost on AutoBidMaster: FAQs

Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

1. What is the winning bid?

The winning bid is the final amount you agree to pay for the vehicle at auction. Keep in mind that this amount does not include additional fees and expenses associated with the purchase.

2. How much does AutoBidMaster charge?

Your total cost depends on your membership plan, the winning bid, and applicable auction fees. AutoBidMaster charges transaction and documentation fees, while additional expenses may include shipping, payment processing, taxes, and storage. Review the fee breakdown before bidding to understand your estimated total cost.

3. Are there any auction fees?

Yes, the auction house charges fees based on the final bid amount. These fees help cover the costs of running the auction.

4. What are payment processing fees?

Payment processing fees are charges the bank applies. These include bank transfer fees or credit card transfer fees.

5. How do I estimate shipping costs?

Shipping costs depend on the distance between the auction site and the delivery location. Fortunately, AutoBidMaster offers a shipping calculator to help you estimate these costs.

6. Are there any additional costs?

Yes, additional costs may apply, including the following:

• Inspection Fees: You may need to pay an inspection fee if you choose to have the vehicle inspected.
• Storage Fees: If you don’t pick up the vehicle on time, storage fees may apply.
• Title Processing Fees: Fees associated with processing the vehicle’s title transfer.

7. What taxes and licensing fees should I expect?

Depending on your location, you may need to pay sales tax, registration fees, and environmental fees.

These fees vary by state. To determine the applicable costs, contact your local DMV and ask about any additional fees associated with purchasing and registering the vehicle.

8. How can I get an accurate total cost estimate?

Start with the winning bid and add auction fees, transaction fees, shipping, taxes, and any other charges. The AutoBidMaster fee calculator provides an estimate of applicable purchase fees based on your bid amount. Also, review shipping quotes and potential repair costs to create a realistic budget.

9. What are some examples of additional considerations?

Other expenses to consider include insurance, vehicle repairs (especially for salvage vehicles), and currency exchange fees for international buyers.

10. What is the AutoBidMaster membership fee?

The AutoBidMaster membership fee depends on the plan you choose. Different membership levels offer different bidding limits, benefits, and transaction fee structures. Higher-tier memberships may be worth considering if you plan to purchase multiple vehicles or bid on more expensive cars. Compare the available plans and their current fees before signing up.