Terms of Service
1. Platform Role & Scope
Auction Direct, Inc. (“Auction Direct”) operates a technology platform that facilitates online vehicle auctions between independent third-party sellers and buyers.
Auction Direct is not a licensed motor vehicle dealer, does not take ownership or possession of vehicles, and does not act as a seller or buyer in any transaction unless expressly stated in a written agreement executed by Auction Direct.
Auction Direct’s role is limited to providing marketplace technology, auction facilitation, payment processing, and transaction settlement services.
2. Transaction Types
Auction Direct supports multiple transaction types. Each auction listing is governed by the rules, disclosures, and requirements applicable to that transaction type. Users are solely responsible for reviewing and understanding the applicable terms prior to bidding or listing.
a. Dealer-to-Dealer Transactions
- Participation restricted to verified, licensed motor vehicle dealers
- Vehicles may be sold with title pending
- Buyer fees and seller fees apply as disclosed prior to bidding
- Vehicle purchase funds may be held in a custodial account pending delivery of required title documentation
- Sellers generally have up to forty-five (45) days to provide required title or ownership documentation
- If documentation is not provided within sixty (60) days, Auction Direct may initiate remediation actions, including but not limited to transaction cancellation, refund to buyer, fee retention, or other commercially reasonable actions
b. Public Transactions (Lien Sale & Charity Vehicles)
Public transactions may include statutory lien sale vehicles and charity-donated vehicles sold on behalf of a qualifying charitable organization.
Public transaction conditions include, without limitation:
- Vehicles are sold as-is, where-is, with no warranties
- Smog certification is not provided
- Buyer is solely responsible for registration, smog, taxes, and compliance
- Auction Direct does not guarantee DMV acceptance, registrability, or title outcome
3. Auction Participation Fee
Auction Direct may require a one-time auction participation fee to enable bidding privileges.
- The participation fee is non-refundable
- The participation fee is not a deposit and is not applied toward vehicle purchase
- The participation fee may be retained in the event of non-payment, chargeback, or violation of these Terms
4. Fees
Buyer fees, seller fees, participation fees, and service fees may apply.
- All applicable fees are disclosed prior to bidding or listing
- Fee schedules may be modified at any time with notice via the Platform and/or email
- Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of updated fee schedules
5. Payments & Custodial Funds
Platform fees are earned upon successful charge.
Vehicle purchase funds may be held in a custodial account pending completion of transaction requirements, including title or documentation delivery.
Auction Direct is not an escrow agent, fiduciary, or trustee, and does not provide escrow services.
6. No Guarantee of Sale, Title, or Registration
Auction Direct makes no guarantees regarding:
- Sale outcomes
- Vehicle condition
- Title acceptance or transfer
- DMV registration or compliance
All transactions are completed at the buyer’s and seller’s sole risk.
7. Acknowledgment
By using the Platform, users acknowledge and agree that Auction Direct acts solely as a marketplace facilitator and is not a party to vehicle sale agreements between buyers and sellers.