Types of Sales

We conduct different types of sales by using different sales methods taylored to the specific commodity. The method chosen depends on the type of property, the quantity and condition of the item(s) to be sold, the location of the property, and the special nature of the item. Some sales types include the following:

• Auctions—open to the general public with inspection allowed the day before the auction. Our auctions are always advertised in local newspapers, on our calendar of upcoming sales, and sometimes on Cable Channels 12 and 20 in surrounding counties. Complete property listings are not mailed in advance of the auction; however, postcards announcing upcoming auctions are mailed to customers on our mailing list. Item listings are usually not complete until 2 or 3 days before the auction. Certain items are sold via our online auction. Prospective bidders must register before placing a bid.
• Sealed bid sales—a method used to sell large quantities of material or for specialized commodities (e.g., instrumentation or machinery). Sealed bid sales are suited for large companies and brokerages and are also open to the general public. Bids are submitted in sealed envelopes. On closing day, all bids are opened and the bids are compared to determine the successful bidder. All awards are generally made to the highest bidder or highest qualified bidder and are subject to Special Conditions as specified in the sale and to General Terms and Conditions.
• Spot bids—held in lieu of auctions, also known as "silent auctions" and generally held for office equipment, vehicles, and items of interest to the public. Spot bids typically consist of small lots (usually one item) and are more suitable for individuals. Bidders are allowed to inspect the items and then submit their bid card in the designated locked repository. Bids are opened at the designated place and time on the announced date to determine the highest bidder.
• Contract sales and service contracts—annual sales subcontracts that pertain to large quantities of material generated over a continuing period of time (e.g., scrap metal, tires, batteries, cardboard, paper). These sales are generally open to licensed/permitted firms.
• Negotiated sales— authorized for city and county government bodies and their entities (such as school systems). If you have questions about whether your organization is qualified to negotiate with the government for sales, contact J. D. Huddleston; 230 Warehouse Road, Building 1916-T2, MS 8269; Oak Ridge, TN 37831-8269; 865.576.1451.
• Fixed-price sales— open to the general public and held in conjunction with public auctions. Items are "selected" and sold "where is—as is," at the invoiced price and are limited to quantities available for the store. Prices are not negotiable and items are sold on a first come, first served basis. Listings are not mailed prior to sale date. Property may be withdrawn at any time.