Buying Through Auctions

Learn what you need to do if you want to purchase supplies or equipment for your department through an auction.

Online or live auctions offer a way of buying equipment and supplies for the University. Each auction vendor has specific requirements for participation that do not always correspond with University regulations. For this reason, requests to participate in auctions are handled on a case-by-case basis.

At least 10 days before you attempt to purchase any item through an auction, you must contact Purchasing for assistance. Purchasing:

• Assists you with required supporting documentation
• Determines if the auction vendor's requirements accommodate working with UCSD
• Ensures that all items are inspected before UCSD may participate
• Issues a one-time delegation of authority to the participant to bid and expend funds
• Ensures that the University's procurement policies are met:
  • Requirements for competition are satisfied
  • Negotiations are conducted according to established policies
  • No conduct of compromise to the public trust is present

When you look at the price of auction items, the savings may seem substantial. Be aware that often the reasons for the low price involve:

• Limited or no warranty
• No return policy
• Advance payment requirement
• Items of uncertain history and condition

Remember, all auction items are purchased on an "as is/ where is" basis.

Involve Purchasing early by contacting Mary Watt, (858) 534-6720 in Central Purchasing. If Purchasing determines that your participation is appropriate, a buyer will contact you. If participation is not appropriate, the buyer will assist you in finding other solutions.

Once Purchasing endorses the auction purchase, consider using your Express Card as payment if the item is under $4,999, including tax, shipping, and commission charges, and is not restricted.

Buy & Pay

Ways to Buy

• Purchase Orders
• Express Card
• Express Order
• New Marketplace
• On-Campus Retailers
• STORE
• Surplus Sales
• Auctions