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Understanding Post-Auction Counter Offers on Copart
CarProxy Editors
Published in Buying on CopartDecember 10th 20255 min read
When bidding on salvage or used vehicles through online auctions like Copart, you might notice that not every vehicle sells as soon as the auction ends. In many cases, highest bid does not meet the seller’s minimum price, also known as the reserve price. But this doesn’t always mean you’ve lost the opportunity to buy the vehicle — this is where post-auction counter offers come in.The seller has until 7:45 p.m. (Pacific Time) on the next business day after the day of the auction to respond to an offer.
What Is a Post-Auction Counter Offer?
A counter offer happens when:- You were the highest bidder,
- But your bid was below the seller’s minimum acceptable amount,
- And the seller wants to negotiate a price after the auction ends.
How the Counter-Offer Process Works
Here’s what typically happens step-by-step:1. You Win the Bid — But Not the Sale
Example:- You bid $1,500
- The seller’s reserve is $2,200
- The auction ends, but the vehicle doesn’t sell
- The system marks the vehicle as “On Approval”.
2. The Seller Sends a Counter Offer
You might receive:- A direct counter offer (e.g., $2,000 instead of $2,200)
- A message that the seller is willing to negotiate
3. You Can Negotiate
You can:- Accept the offer
- Reject the offer
- Counter with your own price (e.g., reply with $1,700)
4. Final Decision
If you agree on a price, the sale is finalized, and CarProxy will process your payment, paperwork, and pickup arrangements.If counter offers are not accepted, the seller can still choose to accept the original bid. If at that time, buyer no longer wants the vehicle they will be charged the relist fee.
Why Counter Offers Can Be a Good Thing
Counter offers can actually work in your favor, especially for smart buyers. Here’s why:Buyers Get Better Deals
Sometimes the seller’s counter offer is lower than their original reserve, giving you a good discount simply because the vehicle didn’t meet expectations.Example:- Reserve: $3,000
- High bid: $2,000
- $2,300 - You save $700 off the original minimum price.
Buyers Have More Negotiation Power
If the seller wants to move the unit quickly, they may accept a reasonable counter from you — even if it’s only slightly above your original bid.There’s Less Competition
Unlike the live auction, the counter-offer stage is one-on-one. You’re the only buyer in the negotiation.Buyers Have More Time to Think
Some auctions move fast, but post-sale negotiations give you a moment to decide whether the car still makes financial sense.How Counter Offers Can Affect Your Purchase Strategy
Understanding counter offers helps you become a smarter bidder:You Can Bid Low Strategically
You don’t always need to meet the reserve during the live auction.A smart buyer might:- Bid slightly below what they’d be willing to pay
- Hope for a favorable counter afterwards
Watch Your Maximum Budget
Once a counter offer is made, excitement can cause buyers to overpay. Stick to your budget, factoring in:- Auction fees
- Broker fees
- Transport
- Repairs
- Title and registration costs
Don’t Ignore “On Approval” Listings
Some of the best deals come from vehicles that didn’t meet reserve. Many sellers expect negotiations and may price high at the start.Don’t Wait Too Long
Counter offers are usually time-limited. If you miss the window, the seller may relist the vehicle — or accept someone else’s late offer.Final Tips for Buyers
- Always set a max price before bidding
- Only bid on vehicles you truly want to own
- Expect counter offers on popular or lightly damaged vehicles
- Use counter offers to your advantage — don’t fear negotiation
- Factor in all costs before accepting
- Ask CarProxy for guidance if you’re unsure
Register with CarProxy and explore used and salvage vehicles for sale online.
