Government surplus auctions have become one of the most reliable ways to purchase vehicles, heavy machinery, tools, and even real estate at a fraction of retail prices. Among the platforms available, GovPlanet, operated by Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, has emerged as a leader. With thousands of listings every month and a reputation for transparency, GovPlanet has transformed how individuals and businesses acquire surplus assets.
In 2024 alone, GovPlanet facilitated the sale of over 100,000 surplus assets, including more than 25,000 vehicles and 10,000 pieces of heavy equipment across North America.
This article is your complete guide to navigating GovPlanet auctions — from understanding what they offer, to bidding strategies, potential pitfalls, and how to maximize your investment.
What GovPlanet Offers
Vehicles: fleet cars, Humvees, trucks, buses, RVs, motorcycles.
Many buyers specifically search for military surplus vehicles for sale, and GovPlanet’s Humvee auctions are among the most popular. Compared to other government truck auctions, GovPlanet provides detailed inspection reports, which helps buyers make confident decisions.
Heavy Equipment: excavators, bulldozers, tractors, forklifts.
Supplies: tools, electronics, furniture, office equipment.
Real Estate: land parcels, surplus government buildings.
How GovPlanet Auctions Work
Auction Frequency: Weekly + timed auctions.
Browsing Tools: Filters for asset type, location, date.
Bidding Methods: Online, phone, absentee bidding.
The Bidding Process: Step-by-Step
-
Register your account.
-
Deposit funds.
-
Research items and inspection reports.
-
Place bids live or timed.
-
Pay hammer price + buyer’s premium if you win.
-
Arrange pickup or shipping.
Costs & Fees Explained
-
Hammer Price: Winning bid.
-
Buyer’s Premium: Usually 10–12%.
-
Taxes & Duties: Location-based.
-
Other Fees: Storage, paperwork, etc.
Benefits of GovPlanet
-
Below-market pricing.
-
Transparent reports and photos.
-
Flexible bidding and payment options.
-
Huge diversity of assets.
According to Ritchie Bros., online surplus and government truck auctions have grown by 35% year-over-year, reflecting rising demand for affordable used equipment and vehicles.
Risks and Considerations
-
Assets sold as-is, where-is.
-
Additional hidden costs.
-
Competitive bidding.
-
Limited returns or cancellations.
Case Studies
👉 Military Humvees on GovPlanet often sell for $4,000–$12,000, depending on mileage and condition. In comparison, similar models can resell privately for over $20,000, making GovPlanet one of the cheapest Humvee auction platforms in the USA.
Caterpillar backhoe purchased 30% below dealer price.
👉 Surplus land on GovPlanet has sold for under $1,000 per acre, while private market averages in the same regions often exceed $3,500 per acre. This demonstrates how surplus auctions can deliver significant savings.
GovPlanet vs. Other Auction Platforms
Many buyers compare GovPlanet vs. GSA Auctions before bidding. While GSA focuses primarily on federal government assets, GovPlanet offers weekly government truck auctions, surplus vehicles, and equipment, making it a broader marketplace.
| Feature | GovPlanet | GSA Auctions | Municibid | Ritchie Bros. (parent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Focus | Govt/Military surplus | Federal surplus assets | Local municipalities | Heavy equipment |
| Auction Frequency | Weekly | Continuous online | Varies by city/state | Global events |
| Asset Variety | Vehicles, equip., real estate | Mostly vehicles & furniture | School buses, city surplus | Heavy machinery only |
| Accessibility | Public | Public | Public | Public/business mix |
| Payment Flexibility | Multiple options | Limited | Varies | Financing available |
Pro Tips for First-Time Buyers
-
Set a firm budget.
-
Review past sales data.
-
Inspect assets when possible.
-
Plan shipping costs in advance.
-
Watch for bulk lots for better deals.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is GovPlanet legit and safe?
Yes. GovPlanet is a subsidiary of Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, one of the largest auction companies in the world. It is a legitimate and secure platform for buying government and military surplus assets.
2. Does GovPlanet sell to individuals or only businesses?
GovPlanet auctions are open to the general public. You do not need a business license to participate, but certain items may have restrictions.
3. How often are GovPlanet auctions held?
Most GovPlanet auctions are held weekly, typically every Wednesday. Some items are listed in timed auctions that run for several days.
4. What types of items can I buy on GovPlanet?
You can purchase vehicles (cars, trucks, Humvees, RVs), heavy equipment (bulldozers, tractors, forklifts), supplies (tools, electronics, furniture), and even real estate.
5. Do I need a dealer license to buy from GovPlanet?
No. Most items are available to the public without a dealer license. However, some assets may require an End-User Certificate (EUC) or other approvals.
6. Do GovPlanet vehicles come with titles?
Many vehicles are sold with titles, but some (like military Humvees) may not be road-legal and are sold with a bill of sale only. Always check the listing details.
7. Why are Humvees so cheap on GovPlanet?
Military Humvees are sold as surplus and often lack modern safety features, warranties, or road certifications. Their lower cost reflects these restrictions.
8. How do I get a GovPlanet EUC (End-User Certificate) approved?
If you buy restricted military equipment, GovPlanet requires you to submit an EUC form for government approval. Processing may take 2–8 weeks.
9. What happens if I win an auction but don’t pay?
If you fail to pay, GovPlanet may suspend your account, charge penalties, and block you from future auctions.
10. What does “as-is, where-is” mean?
It means items are sold in their current condition with no warranties or guarantees. Buyers are responsible for inspection before bidding.
11. Can I inspect items before bidding?
Yes. GovPlanet provides inspection reports with photos, and in some cases, you can schedule an in-person inspection.
12. How do I pay for items on GovPlanet?
GovPlanet accepts credit cards, wire transfers, checks, and financing partners for larger purchases.
13. Can I finance purchases on GovPlanet?
Yes. GovPlanet partners with financing providers through Ritchie Bros. to help businesses and individuals finance equipment purchases.
14. How does shipping work on GovPlanet?
You can arrange pickup at the auction site or hire a third-party logistics provider. GovPlanet also offers shipping estimates for many items.
15. What happens if my item is damaged during shipping?
If you hire a third-party transporter, damage claims must be handled directly with the shipping company. GovPlanet is not responsible once items are released.
16. Can I cancel a GovPlanet bid?
No. All bids are binding. Make sure you are committed before placing a bid.
17. Can I resell items purchased from GovPlanet?
Yes. Many buyers purchase vehicles, tools, and equipment with the intention of reselling for profit.
18. How do GovPlanet inspections work?
Each listing includes a condition report prepared by GovPlanet inspectors. Reports include photos, descriptions, and functional details of the asset.
19. What is the buyer’s premium on GovPlanet?
GovPlanet charges a buyer’s premium (typically 10–12%) on top of the hammer price. Always factor this into your bidding budget.
20. Is GovPlanet international?
Primarily, GovPlanet serves the United States and Canada, but some auctions and items are available internationally. Always check location restrictions.
Conclusion
GovPlanet is more than just an auction site — it’s a gateway to affordable, surplus government assets. Whether you’re a small business owner, contractor, investor, or enthusiast, GovPlanet’s weekly auctions provide access to vehicles, machinery, tools, and property that might otherwise be out of reach.
By understanding the bidding process, fees, and risks, you can maximize savings and minimize surprises. With preparation and strategy, GovPlanet can be a powerful resource for sourcing assets at below-market prices.
Additional Resources
For readers who want to explore more about surplus auctions and asset acquisition, here are some relevant organizations and platforms frequently associated with this industry:
-
GovPlanet – Leading online marketplace for government surplus assets.
-
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers – Parent company of GovPlanet and global auction leader.
-
U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) – Handles federal government surplus.
-
National Association of State Agencies for Surplus Property (NASASP) – Oversees surplus property programs at the state level.
Glossary of Auction Terms
-
Hammer Price: The final winning bid at which an asset is sold.
-
Buyer’s Premium: An additional percentage-based fee charged on top of the hammer price.
-
As-Is, Where-Is: A condition of sale where items are sold in their current state, without warranties or guarantees.
-
End-User Certificate (EUC): A government-required document for certain military surplus assets.
-
Reserve Price: The minimum amount a seller is willing to accept for an item at auction.
Acknowledgments
This article has been prepared using publicly available information, industry practices, and professional insights to provide readers with a comprehensive guide to GovPlanet and government surplus auctions.
About the Author
The author is a seasoned professional with experience in asset acquisition, auctions, and business strategy. With years of exposure to surplus marketplaces and buyer consulting, they bring practical knowledge to help individuals and businesses make informed decisions when participating in auctions.
Legal Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers should conduct their own research and due diligence before making purchasing decisions. The author assumes no liability for any actions taken based on the content of this article.
Article Citations
-
Data and statistics are based on publicly available information from GovPlanet.
-
Additional insights were drawn from Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers and U.S. government surplus property programs.
Author Contact Information
For questions, feedback, or inquiries, please feel free to contact the author at consumerauto.us@gmail.com.
