FAQ's

What is Carlisle Auctions?

Carlisle Auctions is the auction brand of the world's largest presenter of collector car events, Carlisle Events. The Carlisle Auctions team specializes in the sale of American classics, European sports cars, Detroit muscle, hot rods and customs. Each year the company hosts auctions in Carlisle, Pennsylvania; and Lakeland, Florida. The Pennsylvania based auctions are held in conjunction with the internationally recognized Spring and Fall Carlisle swap meets.

Where are the auction events located in North America?

SUN 'n FUN Expo Campus - Lakeland, Florida | 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland, FL 33811
Carlisle Expo Center - Carlisle, Pennsylvania | 100 K Street, Carlisle, PA 17013

Where can I keep up-to-date with Carlisle Auctions on social media?

Carlisle Auctions is an extension of the world's largest presenter of collector car events, Carlisle Events. Follow Carlisle Auctions on Facebook @CarlisleAuctions. You can also follow Carlisle Events on Twitter @CarlisleEvents or follow the Spring/Fall Carlisle and Carlisle Auctions Facebook event pages for which the auctions are held. For a complete list of social media links, visit CarlisleEvents.com or simply click the Facebook and other social media icon images located on the homepage associated with the auction you wish to attend.

Did you ever buy a vehicle at auction? If not, learn how and why by Bill Miller, Jr.

Having been in the car business all my life, I have bought and sold a lot of cars to make a living. This was not just a hobby experience for me as I had to make money for the dealer that I worked for and then for myself as I became a new car dealer in the 1970's. From 1966 until 1995 I bought and sold cars at auction often two or three times a week. Learn More

 

What is the cost to become a registered bidder if I am to attend the Carlisle, PA Auction and what does that cost include?

During Spring and Fall Carlisle, The registration fee is $100.00. Bidders receive one multi-day admission pass to the automotive flea markets of Spring Carlisle/Fall Carlisle held in conjunction with the auction and one guest pass to attend the auction held in the Carlisle Expo Center. Extra guest auction passes may be obtained for $50 each. A free shuttle operates to and from the Carlisle Expo Center and the Carlisle Fairgrounds. For the latest Bidder Registation Packet for download and instructions, visit the Register to Bid area.

How do I become a registered bidder?

Download the latest Bidder Registation Packet via the Register to Bid area. This includes directions and information on what to do next for in person bidding. Once processed, you will receive confirmation from one of our auction representatives via email or phone.

Can I register on site at the event or is it better to register in advance?

You can register on-site at the event; however, it is recommended to register by following the instructions in the Register to Bid area in advance to avoid potential delays while in line.

Do I need to send in a new application and required items for each auction I wish to attend?

Yes, we do require a new application to be submitted for each auction and request that you submit all required items each time as some of the items we require may have expired since the last event you attended. For the latest Bidder Registation Packet with download and instructions, visit the Register to Bid area.

What is required to register to bid?

Photo identification (driver's license or passport). Bank letters of guarantee are required if paying by personal or company check. Copies of dealer licenses are required if you are registering as and buying under a dealership.

What is a bank letter of guarantee?

A bank letter of guarantee is an irrevocable letter issued by your banking institution stating that the bank will guarantee a check written by you, indicating your account number and the monetary value of the guarantee; it must also state that no stop payments will be issued. The bank will state the guarantee is to be used for the purposes of the proposed auction on the date of the sale. Sample of forms are available for download at our ‘Register to Bid’ area.

What if I cannot obtain a bank letter of guarantee?

Some larger banks will not issue letters of guarantee. Other options are available. Please call the auction office at 717-960-6400 for details. Only a letter of guarantee allows you to pay with a personal or company check.

I've Won the Bid - Now What?

First and foremost, please pay for your purchase. On the phone, online or in person, a Carlisle Auctions team member will be in communication with you regarding settlement. If in person, please visit the auction office in a timely manner. Payment arrangements must be made within two hours of your winning bid.

Car Storage and Transportation

Winning lots should be removed from the auction facility no later than 5 PM the Monday following the auction. Carlisle Auctions offers 24 hour security of your lot in a secured location until the Monday deadline. Please call 717-960-6400 with further questions.

For buyers and sellers in Lakeland, Florida, transportation may be secured by way of Executive Auto Transport, LLC. Visit them online today to make arrangements or call Joseph Thebeau, executive sales manager, at 774-757-8013 to learn more.

Buyers are responsible for securing transportation for their winning lot.

Financing Options

AFC and Next Gear are two financing options for dealers who buy with Carlisle Auctions. While individual buyers are welcome and encouraged to participate, Carlisle Auctions does not offer financing options for them at this time.

What is consignment?

To "consign" literally means to "deliver" or "entrust." By consigning your property to Carlisle Auctions, you are simply setting the stage for that property to be sold at auction on your behalf.

What does it cost to sell my vehicle at an Carlisle Auctions?

To sell a vehicle at Carlisle Auctions, the Consignor is responsible for an entry fee as well as a sellers commission. Consignors receive one multi-day pass to the automotive flea market event held in conjunction with the auction and one guess pass to attend the auction. Extra guest passes may be obtained for $50.00 each. For the latest Consignment Packet for download and instructions visit the 'Consign a Vehicle' area.

What is a seller's commission if the vehicle sells?

A seller's commission is the amount owed to Carlisle Auctions for the sale of a vehicle.

If I enter a car to be sold at auction, is the entry fee refundable?

Yes and no. Monies are refunded only for unsold consignments that are 25 years or older. Any consignment 24 years or newer is done so with non-refundable fees. See the ‘FREE UNLESS SOLD Guarantee’ for details. In either instance, 25 and older or 24 and newer, if the vehicle sells, the entry fee is non-refundable and you will be obligated to pay the appropriate sellers commission.

What does "offered without reserve" mean?

The lot will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of the price achieved at auction.

What happens if the reserve price is not reached on an item?

The auctioneer will "pass" on the item once it is clear that there are no more interested bidders and then ask that the vehicle be taken off the stage. Vehicles that do not meet the reserve on stage during the auction still have the opportunity to sell on our "Still For Sale" list if an agreement can be made with a potential bidder and the owner.

I sold a car; when will I be paid?

Sellers checks will be mailed 10-14 business days from the conclusion of the auction.

Does the title have to be in my name to consign a vehicle?

Yes, unless you are a Dealer.

How do I get my vehicle to the auction site?

It is the Consignor's responsibility to get the vehicles to the auction site, however, Carlisle Auctions can offer you a suggested list of transport companies. .

When do I need to deliver my car?

This varies from sale to sale. A specific information letter will be included with your consignment package.

Do I have to be there when my car arrives?

Please check in at the auction office upon arrival to turn in your title and sign a few documents.

What happens after my car goes over the auction block?

When your car sells, it is moved back to its dedicated location until the new owner takes it home. If your car does not sell, it will need to be removed from the property by the end of the first business day following the end of the auction.