Understanding how the auction works puts you in a better position to win. Here's everything you need to bid smart.
You must have a registered account before you can place any bids. Registration is free and takes only a minute. Once you're in, browse open lots and add the ones you want to your Watch List, this keeps everything organised and easy to track as closing time approaches.
Build your Watch List early
Don't wait until lots are about to close. Add items to your Watch List as soon as you spot them so you can monitor bid activity and plan your move in advance.
Quick bid
Places the next minimum increment above the current winning bid automatically. Good for getting into a lot fast. Example: if a lot is at $10, a quick bid puts you at $11. If it's at $120, you jump to $125. Enter your bid beside the green Submit Bid button.
Proxy bid
Set the maximum amount you're willing to pay. The system bids incrementally on your behalf — beating competing bids up to your limit — without revealing your maximum to anyone. Example: a lot sits at $30. You set a proxy bid of $50. The system immediately makes you the winner at $32.50 and continues outbidding anyone else until your $50 limit is reached. If you're outbid, you'll get an email notification and can choose to re-enter.
Proxy bids are your strongest tool
Setting a proxy bid means you don't have to watch the auction constantly. Decide your maximum, set it, and let the system work. It's the most effective way to stay competitive without being glued to the screen.
How increments are calculated
Every bid must meet the minimum increment for its price level. The higher the lot value, the larger the increment. Use this table to calculate your next bid.
How closing works — and why timing matters
Lots close in rolling groups, not all at once. Each lot has its own countdown timer. The event close time marks when lots begin closing, not when all lots have closed. Keep an eye on your Watch List as the auction progresses.
Auto time extend
If any bid is placed within the last 2 minutes of a lot closing, that lot's timer extends by 2 more minutes. This repeats until no bids land in the final window. It prevents last-second sniping and keeps competition fair for everyone.
Don't wait until the last second
Bidding in the final 10 seconds is a real risk. Slow internet or high platform activity can mean your bid doesn't register in time. Bid with a comfortable window — don't gamble on the last few seconds.
Watch your lots in the final hour
Outbid email notifications stop once the auction begins to close. That means your inbox won't warn you. Check your Watch List directly in the final hours to stay on top of the bids that matter.
What you're committing to when you bid
Every bid at SoftCanada Auctions is binding. Before your bid is submitted, you'll be asked to confirm twice — the system shows you the lot and the exact amount. Review it carefully before clicking confirm.
Bids cannot be retracted
Once confirmed, a bid is permanent. You cannot lower the amount or withdraw it. If you win, you are responsible for paying and collecting that lot. Only bid what you are prepared to pay.
Typographical errors
If you believe you've entered the wrong amount, contact us immediately. Withdrawals are not guaranteed and are only considered before the auction begins to close, at our discretion.
Tied bids
If two bids are identical, the earliest one wins. On lots you really want, bid early rather than waiting for the last moment.
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