UPDATED CONTENT 2025
What Can You Buy at These Government Auctions?
Government auctions offer an astonishing variety of surplus items that are no longer needed by federal, state, and local governments. These can include:
- Military Vehicles & Equipment – Humvees, armored trucks, transport vehicles
- Police & Fire Department Vehicles – Patrol cars, motorcycles, fire trucks, ambulances
- Construction & Heavy Equipment – Bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks
- Electronics & Office Supplies – Laptops, printers, network devices, furniture
- Medical & Laboratory Equipment – Hospital beds, surgical tools, diagnostic equipment
- Confiscated & Forfeited Items – Jewelry, watches, high-end electronics, collectibles
- Recreational Vehicles & Boats – ATVs, boats, jet skis, trailers
- Scrap & Recycling Materials – Metal, wood, glass, industrial waste
These auctions are a goldmine for businesses, resellers, and enthusiasts looking for bargains on high-quality equipment at unbeatable prices.
GovPlanet Government Auction Categories
GovPlanet offers a vast array of surplus government equipment across different categories, including:
- Agricultural and Forestry Equipment – Tractors, mowers, farming tools
- Aircraft and Aviation Support – Aircraft parts, engines, and maintenance gear
- Construction Equipment – Excavators, loaders, bulldozers
- Commercial Trucks and Vehicles – Box trucks, dump trucks, flatbed trucks
- Military Vehicles & Equipment – Humvees, tactical vehicles, field gear
- Office & IT Equipment – Computers, printers, furniture
- Medical & Laboratory Equipment – Hospital beds, diagnostic tools, lab equipment
- Marine & Boats – Military boats, personal watercraft, navigation systems
Guide to GovPlanet – Government Auctions
GovDeals Government Auction Categories
GovDeals specializes in auctions for local and state government surplus, featuring a broad range of items, including:
- Police & Emergency Vehicles – Patrol cars, ambulances, fire trucks
- Municipal and School Vehicles – School buses, transit buses, public service vehicles
- Heavy Equipment – Excavators, forklifts, backhoes, skid steers
- Consumer Electronics – Laptops, tablets, mobile phones
- Office Furniture & Supplies – Desks, chairs, filing cabinets
- Confiscated & Forfeited Goods – Jewelry, watches, designer items
- Recreation & Sporting Equipment – Gym equipment, bicycles, boats
- Industrial Equipment – Generators, compressors, power tools
Why Buy Items from Official Government Auctions?
Buying from official government surplus auctions provides several advantages over traditional marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist:
- Reliable Source: Items come from government agencies, ensuring legitimacy.
- Tested & Maintained: Many government-owned vehicles and equipment receive regular maintenance.
- Incredible Discounts: Auctions start at low prices, often far below retail value.
- Eco-Friendly: Buying surplus helps reduce waste and promotes resource recycling.
- Secure Transactions: No worries about scams or fraudulent listings.
How Do Government Auctions Work?
Government auctions operate similarly to other online auction platforms like eBay, but with a few key differences:
- Registration – Users must create an account and verify their identity.
- Bidding – Auctions have start and end times, with some allowing auto-bidding.
- Winning & Payment – If you win, you’ll receive an invoice for payment within a set timeframe.
- Pickup & Shipping – Buyers must arrange pickup or shipping, as most items are sold “as-is, where-is.”
Comparison: GovPlanet vs. GovDeals
| Feature | GovPlanet | GovDeals |
|---|---|---|
| Auction Type | Weekly live & online auctions | Online auctions only |
| Specialties | Military surplus, heavy equipment | Municipal, police, school surplus |
| Vehicles | Military Humvees, tactical trucks | Police cars, school buses, SUVs |
| Inspection Options | IronClad Assurance® on select items | Buyers must contact sellers |
| Best For | Businesses, resellers, military collectors | Individuals, small business owners |
What Can You Buy at These Government Auctions?
Government auctions offer an astonishing variety of surplus items that are no longer needed by federal, state, and local governments. These can include:
- Military Vehicles & Equipment – Humvees, armored trucks, transport vehicles, tactical gear
- Police & Fire Department Vehicles – Patrol cars, motorcycles, fire trucks, ambulances
- Construction & Heavy Equipment – Bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks, road maintenance equipment
- Electronics & Office Supplies – Laptops, printers, network devices, office furniture, storage solutions
- Medical & Laboratory Equipment – Hospital beds, surgical tools, diagnostic equipment, dental instruments
- Confiscated & Forfeited Items – Jewelry, watches, high-end electronics, luxury collectibles
- Recreational Vehicles & Boats – ATVs, boats, jet skis, motorhomes, camper trailers
- Scrap & Recycling Materials – Metal, wood, glass, industrial waste, repurposed materials
These auctions are a goldmine for businesses, resellers, and enthusiasts looking for bargains on high-quality equipment at unbeatable prices.
Why Buy Items from Official Government Auctions?
Buying from official government surplus auctions provides several advantages over traditional marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist:
- Reliable Source: Items come directly from government agencies, ensuring legitimacy and transparency.
- Tested & Maintained: Many government-owned vehicles and equipment are regularly maintained and in good working condition.
- Unmatched Discounts: Auctions start at rock-bottom prices, offering savings of up to 80% off retail.
- Eco-Friendly Purchasing: Buying surplus items reduces waste and promotes sustainability by repurposing quality goods.
- Fraud Protection: Transactions are secure, and there’s no risk of fake listings or scams often found on private marketplaces.
- Business Resale Opportunities: Entrepreneurs and small businesses can purchase bulk lots to resell at a profit.
How Do Government Auctions Work?
Government auctions operate similarly to other online auction platforms like eBay but with a few key differences:
- Registration – Users must create an account and verify their identity before bidding.
- Bidding – Auctions have set start and end times, and some offer auto-bidding features.
- Winning & Payment – If you win an auction, an invoice is generated, and payment is typically due within 3–5 business days.
- Pickup & Shipping – Buyers must arrange pickup or shipping, as most items are sold “as-is, where-is.”
- End-User Certification (EUC) – Some military surplus items require additional clearance and documentation before being released to buyers.
Government Auction #1 – GovPlanet
GovPlanet is one of the premier online platforms for purchasing government and military surplus. It offers a vast selection of:
- Military vehicles (Humvees, 5-ton trucks, armored carriers)
- Heavy construction and industrial equipment
- Communication gear and IT equipment
- Field gear, tactical clothing, and survival tools
- Generators, portable power units, and infrastructure supplies
Unique Features:
- IronClad Assurance® – Provides detailed, certified inspection reports for transparency.
- Priority Bidding – Enables users to submit maximum bids in advance.
- Trade Security Clearance (TSC) Processing – Required for certain tactical and military assets.
Guide to GovDeals – Government Auctions
Government Auction #2 – GovDeals
GovDeals specializes in auctions for surplus government property, including police-seized goods, municipal assets, and school district items. Commonly available items include:
- Police vehicles, fire trucks, and EMS units
- School buses, transit buses, and municipal service vehicles
- Office furniture, electronics, and IT equipment
- Confiscated items like luxury watches, jewelry, and high-end consumer goods
- Construction and maintenance equipment
Unique Features:
- Daily Auctions – New listings are added frequently, with rolling bidding deadlines.
- Local Pickup Focus – Many sellers prefer in-person pickup, reducing shipping costs.
- Bulk Lot Sales – Great for resellers looking to purchase inventory at deep discounts.
Comparison: GovPlanet vs. GovDeals
| Feature | GovPlanet | GovDeals |
|---|---|---|
| Auction Type | Weekly live & online auctions | Online auctions only |
| Specialties | Military surplus, heavy equipment | Municipal, police, school surplus |
| Vehicles | Military Humvees, tactical trucks | Police cars, school buses, SUVs |
| Inspection Options | IronClad Assurance® on select items | Buyers must contact sellers |
| Best For | Businesses, resellers, military collectors | Individuals, small business owners |
eBay Government Auctions – The Hidden Marketplace for Military Surplus & More
While GovPlanet and GovDeals are well-known platforms for government surplus, eBay is an underrated but powerful marketplace where government agencies, military suppliers, and surplus resellers list police-seized goods, decommissioned military equipment, and surplus government assets.
What Can You Buy in eBay’s Government & Military Surplus Auctions?
Unlike GovPlanet and GovDeals, where you must compete in scheduled auctions, eBay offers both “Buy It Now” and bidding options, making it easier to secure government surplus deals without waiting. Some of the top government and military surplus categories on eBay include:
- Military Vehicles & Parts – Humvees, decommissioned transport trucks, and ex-military vehicle components
- Tactical & Survival Gear – Bulletproof vests, helmets, combat boots, tactical backpacks
- Police-Seized Property – Jewelry, watches, seized electronics, rare collectibles
- Government Office Equipment – Laptops, printers, industrial tools, office furniture
- Emergency & Survival Supplies – First-aid kits, MREs, and outdoor survival gear
Why eBay is an Excellent Alternative to Traditional Government Auctions
Unlike GovPlanet, which focuses on military surplus, and GovDeals, which specializes in municipal assets, eBay provides a wider selection of surplus items—often with fewer restrictions, lower fees, and direct shipping options.
- Daily Listings – Unlike scheduled government auctions, eBay sellers list new government surplus items daily.
- Lower Buyer Fees – Many government auction platforms charge a 10-15% buyer’s premium, while eBay’s fees are significantly lower.
- Immediate Purchase Options – Avoid auction bidding wars by selecting “Buy It Now” deals.
- Global Availability – eBay allows international buyers to access U.S. military and government surplus with global shipping options.
- Buyer Protections – Unlike direct government auctions, eBay provides dispute resolution and fraud protection for purchases.
How to Find Government & Military Surplus on eBay
To locate the best government auctions on eBay, try these search strategies:
- Search Terms:
- “Government surplus auction”
- “Military surplus eBay”
- “Ex-military vehicle for sale”
- “Police auction electronics”
- “Seized property auction”
- Browse Key Categories:
- eBay Motors → Military Vehicles
- Business & Industrial → Heavy Equipment → Surplus Supplies
- Collectibles → Militaria → Surplus Military Gear
eBay vs. GovPlanet vs. GovDeals: Which is Better?
| Feature | eBay | GovPlanet | GovDeals |
| Auction Type | 24/7 listings, Buy It Now & bidding | Weekly auctions | Online auctions only |
| Specialties | Military gear, seized property, police surplus | Military surplus, heavy equipment | Municipal, school, and police surplus |
| Vehicles | Ex-military trucks, rare finds | Humvees, tactical trucks | Police cars, school buses |
| Inspection Options | Buyer reviews & seller ratings | IronClad Assurance® reports | Contact seller for details |
| Best For | Collectors, resellers, individual buyers | Military surplus collectors, businesses | Individuals, small business owners |
Final Thoughts: Is eBay Worth Considering for Government Auctions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a broader range of surplus items and flexible purchasing options, eBay is a fantastic alternative to GovPlanet and GovDeals. The combination of competitive prices, buyer protection, and convenience makes it an ideal choice for resellers, collectors, and bargain hunters searching for government and military surplus deals.
🔎 Start browsing eBay government auctions today—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find!
Pickup & Shipping Logistics
- Self-Pickup – Most items require buyers to arrange transportation from designated locations.
- Third-Party Transport Services – Recommended for large equipment, available through GovPlanet’s logistics partners.
- Freight & International Shipping – Some items can be shipped internationally, though restrictions apply.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Not Checking Condition Reports – Always read inspection details carefully before placing a bid.
- Ignoring Storage Fees – Some auctions charge daily storage fees if items aren’t picked up on time.
- Forgetting to Factor in Transport Costs – Military vehicles and heavy equipment can require costly shipping arrangements.
Upcoming Government Auctions & Hot Deals
- GovPlanet Weekly Military Surplus Sales – Every Wednesday!
- GovDeals Police Seized Vehicles – Rolling auctions daily.
- Featured Heavy Equipment Auctions – Monthly sales on loaders, dump trucks, and more!
How to Start a Reselling Business with Government Auctions For Your Niche Website.
- Identify profitable categories – Electronics, vehicles, and industrial equipment have high resale value.
- Create a business strategy – Factor in shipping, storage, and potential repairs.
- Monitor listings regularly – Stay updated on new inventory to find the best deals.
- Set bidding limits – Stick to a budget to avoid overbidding.
- Leverage multiple resale platforms – Sell items on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and niche websites.
👉 Did you find this guide helpful? Share your experiences in the comments below!
General Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are government surplus auctions? Government surplus auctions are platforms where federal, state, and local governments sell used or unneeded items, including vehicles, equipment, electronics, and confiscated goods, to the general public at discounted prices.
2. Who can participate in government auctions? Most government auctions are open to the public, though some may require registration and verification before bidding. Certain items, such as military surplus with export restrictions, may have additional eligibility requirements.
3. How do I register for a government auction? To register, visit the auction website, create an account, verify your identity, and provide payment details. Some platforms require a refundable bid deposit.
Bidding & Buying
4. How does bidding work? Bidding is similar to eBay-style auctions, where users place bids until the auction closes. Some sites offer auto-bidding, which raises your bid incrementally until it reaches your set limit.
5. What happens if I win an auction? Winners receive an invoice and must complete payment within the specified time frame (usually 3-5 business days). Once payment is processed, pickup or shipping arrangements can be made.
6. Can I cancel a bid or return an item? Most auctions are final, with no refunds or returns unless otherwise specified. Read item descriptions and terms carefully before bidding.
Payment & Fees
7. What payment methods are accepted? Most government auction sites accept wire transfers, credit/debit cards, and financing for large purchases. Some sites may require payment via certified check or ACH transfer.
8. Are there additional fees when purchasing? Yes, expect a buyer’s premium (typically 10-15% of the final bid price), sales tax (unless exempt), and potential shipping or storage fees.
9. How does sales tax work for government auction purchases? Sales tax varies by state and item category. Buyers with tax exemption status must provide proper documentation before checkout.
Pickup & Shipping
10. How do I pick up an item I won? Winners receive a release form with pickup details. Buyers must schedule an appointment and bring identification and proof of purchase.
11. Can I arrange for shipping instead of picking up in person? Yes, many items can be shipped via third-party carriers. Some auctions offer integrated logistics support, while others require buyers to coordinate shipping independently.
12. Are international buyers allowed to participate? Some auctions allow international buyers, but certain military or government-restricted items cannot be exported. Always check individual item restrictions before bidding.
GovPlanet-Specific FAQs
13. What is GovPlanet’s IronClad Assurance®? IronClad Assurance® provides detailed inspections and condition reports on select items, ensuring transparency and buyer confidence.
14. Do I need special approval to buy military vehicles from GovPlanet? Yes, military vehicles often require an End-User Certificate (EUC) and Trade Security Clearance before purchase.
15. Can GovPlanet help with financing? Yes, GovPlanet offers financing options through third-party partners for large equipment purchases.
GovDeals-Specific FAQs
16. What types of items can I find on GovDeals? GovDeals offers municipal surplus, including police vehicles, school buses, office equipment, and confiscated goods.
17. Do all GovDeals auctions have a reserve price? Not all auctions have a reserve price, but some sellers set a minimum bid amount.
18. How does local pickup work on GovDeals? Most GovDeals listings require buyers to pick up items in person. Some sellers may assist with shipping upon request.
Common Pitfalls & Solutions
19. What if I fail to pay on time? Failure to pay within the deadline can result in penalties, forfeited deposits, or account suspension. Always check payment deadlines.
20. How do I avoid overbidding? Set a maximum bid limit and use auto-bidding strategically to prevent overpaying.
21. What should I check before bidding on a vehicle? Review inspection reports, verify vehicle history, confirm title status, and factor in transportation costs.
Reselling & Investment Opportunities
22. Can I resell items bought from government auctions? Yes! Many resellers buy bulk lots of electronics, vehicles, and tools to flip for profit on eBay, Craigslist, or specialty markets.
23. Are there any restrictions on reselling? Some military and police surplus items have resale restrictions. Check auction terms before purchasing.
24. What are some profitable items to resell from government auctions? Electronics, laptops, industrial equipment, and vehicles tend to have strong resale value.
Upcoming Auctions & Hot Deals
25. How can I find upcoming auctions? Check GovPlanet’s and GovDeals’ event calendars, subscribe to newsletters, and set up auction alerts.
26. Are there special discounts for bulk purchases? Some auctions offer bulk-lot discounts, especially for resale buyers or commercial purchasers.
27. How can I stay informed about the best deals? Follow auction sites’ social media pages, subscribe to deal alerts, and monitor high-turnover categories like electronics and vehicles.
Final Tips for Government Auction Buyers
- Always read the fine print before bidding.
- Factor in shipping, taxes, and storage fees.
- Research resale values before purchasing for profit.
- Set bid limits to avoid emotional overspending.
- Check GovPlanet and GovDeals regularly for new inventory.
For more details, visit GovPlanet and GovDeals
eBay Government Auctions & Military Surplus
Happy bidding!
