Restaurant Equipment Auction Preview Days: A Guide
Bidding on equipment sight unseen is a risk most experienced buyers avoid. Auction preview days give you the chance to physically inspect items before bidding opens, and using that time well can be the difference between a great deal and an expensive mistake.
What Happens at an Auction Preview
Preview days typically allow registered bidders to walk the auction site, inspect listed items up close, and sometimes test power on equipment where it’s available. It’s your primary opportunity to assess condition beyond what photos and listing descriptions show.
What to Bring and Check
Coming prepared helps you make the most of limited preview time.
- A tape measure to confirm equipment will fit your space
- A flashlight to inspect interiors, seals, and hard-to-see components
- A list of your must-have items so you don’t miss the preview window on them
- Notes or photos of condition issues to inform your bidding limits
Questions to Ask During Preview
Ask auction staff about known issues, whether equipment was tested and functional prior to consignment, and what documentation, like manuals or service records, comes with the item. Not every question will have an answer, but asking establishes what you’re bidding on with open eyes.
Auction Preview Checklist
| Item | What to Check | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Overall condition | Rust, dents, wear on high-use components | Affects both function and resale value |
| Power/functionality (if testable) | Whether the item powers on or runs | Confirms basic operability before you bid |
| Dimensions | Measure against your intended space | Avoids winning an item that won’t fit |
| Included accessories/parts | Confirm racks, shelves, attachments are present | Missing parts add unexpected replacement cost |