How to Prepare for Your First Storage Auction (for Buyers)

Dove Storage
May 6th, 2025

Storage auctions have surged in popularity across the United States, thanks in part to reality TV shows and online platforms. These auctions offer an exciting opportunity for buyers to snag valuable items at competitive prices. However, if you're new to the process, diving in without preparation can lead to confusion or costly mistakes.

This guide outlines everything you need to know to confidently prepare for your first storage auction—from understanding the rules to bidding strategies and legal considerations.

What Is a Storage Auction?

A storage auction occurs when a tenant fails to pay rent on a self-storage unit, typically for 30–90 days or more. After repeated notices and legal procedures, the storage facility has the right to auction off the contents of the unit to recover unpaid rent.Auctions can take place:

On-site at the storage facility

Online via platforms like StorageTreasures.com or Lockerfox.com

Buyers place bids on the entire contents of the unit (not individual items) based on what they can see from the unit’s entrance—no touching or entering the unit before winning.

Step 1: Understand the Rules and Legalities

Before attending or registering for an auction, read up on the rules. Each state has specific laws governing self-storage auctions, and storage facilities may have additional policies. Here are a few key legal points:

Lien laws vary by state and define the timeline and notification process before a unit can be auctioned.

Winning bidders must usually pay in full and in cash immediately after the auction.

Sales are final—you’re buying the contents “as-is” with no guarantees or returns.

Familiarize yourself with your state’s lien laws (available via local government websites) and ask the facility or auction site for a copy of their terms and conditions.

Step 2: Find Upcoming Auctions

You can find storage auctions through several methods:

Online platforms like StorageTreasures, Lockerfox, and Bid13

Local newspapers or facility bulletin boards

Calling storage facilities and asking if they host public auctions

Create an account on auction websites to receive alerts and updates for upcoming events in your area.

Step 3: Know What to Expect

At most auctions, you’ll be allowed to briefly view the unit from outside the doorway once it’s opened. Bring a flashlight or use your phone light to inspect what’s visible—furniture, electronics, boxes, tools, etc. You won't be allowed to move items or open containers.While this may feel like guesswork, experienced bidders look for clues to assess value. For example:

Stacked boxes labeled “kitchen” or “bedroom” may suggest organized, complete household contents.

Dust or cobwebs may indicate items have been untouched for years—possibly valuable or vintage.

Brand logos, tools, or electronics may suggest higher resale potential.

Step 4: Set a Budget and Stick to It

It’s easy to get caught in the excitement of bidding wars, especially if you spot something intriguing in the unit. But overbidding is a common rookie mistake. Here’s how to stay smart:

Set a firm budget before the auction.

Factor in other costs like transportation, cleaning, dumping, or storage for items you don’t sell right away.

Remember, you must take everything in the unit, not just the valuable stuff.

Keep your bids strategic and avoid emotional decisions. Many seasoned buyers win big by sticking to smaller, overlooked units others ignore.

Step 5: Bring the Right Supplies

If you win a unit, you'll typically be given 24–72 hours to clean it out. Come prepared with:

A lock (you’ll need to secure the unit after winning)

Gloves and garbage bags

A flashlight

A moving dolly or cart

A truck or trailer for transporting large items

Masks or dust protection in case of mold or old materials

Some facilities offer dumpster access or cleanup services for a fee—ask in advance.

Step 6: Reselling and Inventory Management

Once you’ve removed everything, sort and evaluate your items. Many auction buyers resell through:

eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist

Local flea markets or garage sales

Pawn shops or antique dealers

Keep a running inventory and organize items to prevent loss or damage. Some buyers even rent self-storage units of their own to manage overflow or seasonal resale operations.

Caution: What Not to Do

Don’t assume everything is valuable. Some units may contain mostly trash or broken items.

Don’t store illegal or hazardous items. If you find such materials, report them to the facility or local authorities.

Don’t forget taxes. Any resale income is subject to federal and possibly state tax reporting requirements.

Bidding on a storage unit can be an exciting and profitable experience if approached with preparation and patience. From understanding the rules and legal implications to setting a budget and planning for cleanup, the key to a successful first auction is doing your homework.Start small, learn from each experience, and over time, you’ll develop the skills to spot valuable units, manage inventory, and build a steady side hustle—or even a full-time business.

Thinking about diving into the world of storage auctions? Learn more about how storage facilities operate and explore affordable storage solutions with Dove Storage. Visit www.dovestorage.com to find a facility near you or contact us to ask about upcoming auctions at our locations.

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