Ritchie Bros
Visit RitchieBrosRitchie Bros is one of the largest auctioneers of heavy equipment and machinery in North America, and they handle a significant volume of government and commercial surplus inventory. The company operates as both a traditional auction house and an online platform, running auctions multiple times per week across dozens of locations. Ritchie Bros specializes in heavy equipment categories like excavators, loaders, graders, dozers, trucks, and agricultural machinery. They also auction off smaller items including tools, vehicle parts, and office equipment depending on what's available from government liquidations. The company has been in business since 1958, so they have established relationships with federal, state, and local agencies that regularly consign surplus assets. Their bidding system works through both live in-person auctions and online platforms where remote bidders can participate in real time. Most equipment sells without reserve, meaning items go to the highest bidder regardless of price. Registration typically requires proof of identity and payment information, though requirements can vary by location and sale type. For buyers new to Ritchie Bros, tips help: inspect equipment before bid day if possible, as most sales are final. Check the equipment condition reports and photos posted online to understand what you're bidding on. Understand their buyer's premium, which adds a percentage to your winning bid. Payment is usually required within a few days, and pickup or shipping arrangements need coordination with the local auction site. Ritchie Bros also charges fees for administration and processing, so factor those into your budget when calculating total acquisition cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ritchie Bros legit?
Yes, and it is one of the oldest names in the business. Ritchie Bros has run industrial equipment auctions since 1958 and is a publicly listed company. Its traditional sales are unreserved, meaning no minimum price and no seller bidding. Buyer's premiums and fees apply and are higher than on government platforms, so check the total before comparing prices against GovDeals.
How do I register to bid on Ritchie Bros auctions?
Registration with Ritchie Bros requires creating an account on their website at rbauction.com. You'll need to provide a valid photo ID and set up payment information. For most auctions, online registration is free, but you may need to establish a credit or debit card on file. Some sales, particularly those with higher-value equipment, may require additional verification or a deposit. The registration process typically takes 10-15 minutes, and approval is often immediate for standard online bidders.
What payment methods does Ritchie Bros accept?
Ritchie Bros accepts major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and debit cards. Wire transfers are also accepted for larger purchases. Payment is due shortly after the auction closes, typically within 2-5 business days. When you place a bid, you authorize a hold on your payment method to confirm bidding ability. The final amount due includes your winning bid plus the buyer's premium (usually 10-15% depending on the sale) and any applicable taxes or fees.
How do I arrange pickup or delivery for equipment I win?
After winning an auction, you coordinate directly with the local Ritchie Bros auction site where your item is located. They provide pickup windows and can arrange for equipment to be held for a set period. Ritchie Bros does not typically ship heavy equipment; buyers are responsible for arranging their own transport. Some sites offer loading assistance for an additional fee. For smaller items, shipping may be available, but you should confirm directly with the auction site. Always plan your pickup within the required timeframe, as storage fees may apply after the holding period expires.
Is Ritchie Bros more expensive than government auctions?
On fees, generally yes. Commercial auction houses charge more than platforms like GSA, which charges no buyer's premium at all. What you get for it is scale, inspection reports and equipment that has usually been through a commercial fleet rather than a municipal one. Compare the landed total, not the hammer price.
Does Ritchie Bros sell government equipment?
Yes. Public agencies use commercial auction houses alongside government platforms, particularly for heavy equipment where the buyer pool is national. The Ritchie Bros group also includes GovPlanet, which handles ex-military inventory specifically.
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