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 Integrated Procure-to-Pay Solutions (IPPS) for assistance. IPPS:

• Assists you with required supporting documentation
• Determines if the auction vendor's requirements accommodate working with UCSD
• 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
• No terms & conditions with the purchase

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

Involve Integrated Procure-to-Pay Solutions early by contacting Tony Esquer, (858) 534-1479. If IPPS 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 Integrated Procure-to-Pay Solutions endorses the auction purchase, consider using your Procurement Card as payment if the item is under $4,999, including tax, shipping, and commission charges, and is not restricted.