How to Find Government Surplus Auctions in Illinois

You can find great deals on surplus government goods in Illinois through either live auctions or internet auctions. Each year in Illinois, thousands of surplus items are sold to the public via government auctions at deep discounts.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services. The department offers auctions for everything from vehicles to furniture throughout the year. Check the department website for upcoming auctions.

2. View potential vehicle and property auction buys before you bid. For property auctions, you will usually be able to check out the property 2 days prior to the auction date. For vehicle auctions, most auctions allow for vehicle inspection early on the same day as the sale.

3. Sign up for the auction mailing list. You will periodically get timely and detailed information on upcoming government auctions and sales in Illinois.

4. Be prepared to pay for your surplus goods on auction day. Cash, money orders or bank guaranteed check are usually accepted forms of payment. Check with the auctioneer prior to the sale date and plan your payments accordingly.

5. Understand that Illinois surplus auction goods are non-returnable or non-refundable. And if you win the bid, you are responsible for removing the property in the time designated for each public auction.

6. Know that under certain circumstances in online auctions, you may be able to have your winning surplus items shipped to you. Be sure to read each auction's listing and shipping rules before bidding.

Resources

• Illinois Central Management Services
• Government Auctions in Connecticut