GSA Surplus Sales
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Whenever a government office or agency updates its operating equipment or ceases operations, the surplus property is put under the jurisdiction of GSA. If they determines that no other government agencies have a need for the property, it is sold to the general public by auction or a sealed bid sale. The property it sells is comprised of 97% government owned "civilian" property and 3% seized or confiscated personal property. GSA markets various motor vehicles; including automobiles, vans, trucks, tractors, and construction and agricultural vehicles. The condition of the property varies from good to fair to poor and is so stated in the bid catalogues. As GSA auctions are relatively simple to access and have such a wide variety of choice in items, they are a good starting point in learning about government sales. To find and prepare for these sales you must either very carefully watch the media GSA uses to advertise, or else gain entry to the GSA mailing list. The GSA sometimes advertises in publications such as "U.S.A. Today", the "Wall Street Journal" and the "New York Times". However, the "advertisement" may be on a bulletin board at the nearest courthouse. One excellent source for all government sale advertising is a publication called "Commerce Business Daily". To subscribe, send remittance and full mailing address to: While it doesn't hurt to watch for advertising, the best method for discovering what sales are coming up is to get on the mailing lists. So, the first thing you need to do is to sit down and write a short note requesting to be placed on the mailing list for the auction schedule and "Invitation To Bid" package. Send your letter(s) to the regional offices in the locations you are interested in. Address it to: After you have sent off your letter, call the nearest GSA office and ask for the telephone number for the pre-recorded information on the next sale. When you call the recording, you will find out when the next sale is, the item category of what is being sold ("Vehicles" or "Machine tools") and when the property can be inspected. At the end of the recording, a phone number is given for people who want to call and request an "Invitation to Bid". Whether or not you want to buy something, request the Invitation be sent to you (it details which lots contain what items, the acquisition price and the condition of properties) and bid a minimum amount at the sale on SOMETHING. Believe me, there is a deal at every auction. This is the first step in your education process. By attending the sale and bidding, GSA classifies you as a "serious" buyer. If there is a waiting list, your application will more than likely be promoted to active status. In addition, you will become familiar with the sale process and the sale officers in your region, and have the opportunity of networking with other auction-goers. You may even pick yourself up a partner! As a rule, for vehicles, the GSA likes to get 40-50% of the WHOLESALE value. They are very careful with these lots, however, recently a medical equipment lot purchased by the government for $176,000 and listed in "fair" condition sold for $61. That is only one of many, many examples. GSA has gotten tougher on vehicle prices but will still give you a better buy than the used car dealer on your block will.
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