Thank you for choosing Rail & Road Auctions as your destination for transportation collectibles. Whether you’re an avid collector or a first-time bidder, our Buyer FAQs are designed to provide you with essential information to enhance your auction experience. From understanding the bidding process to details about payment, pickup, and shipping, we’ve compiled answers to commonly asked questions to ensure your journey with Rail & Road is seamless and enjoyable. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to explore the FAQs below or contact us directly at info@RARauctions.com. Happy Bidding!
At Rail & Road Auctions, providing precise shipping costs upfront can be challenging due to the variable nature of auction outcomes. We understand the importance of transparency, and while we strive to offer accurate estimates, the final shipping cost is contingent upon factors such as the items won and their respective dimensions.
It’s important to note that our shipping calculations encompass various components including labor, materials, insurance, and the actual shipping label cost. It’s worth highlighting that the majority of our packing is conducted in-house, ensuring quality and efficiency. While our shipping department is structured to cover its operational expenses, it’s worth noting that our approach is significantly more cost-effective compared to external packing services such as those offered by local UPS stores or other third-party companies.
Rail & Road Auctions handles the majority of shipping in-house using the Shipping Saint system. After successful payment, the shipping department will send a total shipping invoice via Shipping Saint. Fragile or uniquely shaped items may be shipped via external companies, and customers will be notified accordingly. Many items are ready for shipping between one and four days after their auction invoice is paid. Freight / palletized orders may take longer.
Rail & Road prioritizes communication with consignors, providing clear and concise documentation at every stage of the selling process. The integrity of every item sold is upheld, ensuring transparency and trust. You will receive communication when we begin the catalog process, a month before the auction, and at settlement. Consignors are always welcome to email or call at any point during the process for updates and to discuss any questions they have about their collection.
Payment is due upon receipt of the invoice. Electronic payments can be made through our Auction Invoice Payment Page. You can access this page by Clicking Here. Invoices exceeding $5,000 must be paid by check, wire transfer, or money order, as specified in our terms and conditions.
Bidders using Rail & Road Auctions’ in-house bidding platform at www.RARAuctions.com can save up to 5% on their buyer’s premium. Participants through this platform only pay a 17% buyer’s premium. Learn more and register for upcoming auctions on our website.
Winners opting for item pickup must collect their items from Rail & Road in Lafayette, Indiana. Pickup dates are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for two weeks following the auction, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM Eastern Time. Our warehouse address is 1400 Canal Road Lafayette IN 47904.
Yes, Rail & Road Auctions provides a dedicated bidding and catalog app for both Apple and Android users. Search for “Rail & Road Auctions” in the App Store or follow the links on our website at www.RARAuctions.com to download the app.
Rail & Road guarantees a respectful handling of collections from pickup to the issuance of the last check. The selling process emphasizes communication, documentation, and integrity. Collections are fully insured while at Rail & Road, and consignors can expect payment approximately 30 days after the sale date.
Failure to pick up items or make shipping arrangements within 30 days of the auction’s close will result in the property being considered abandoned and becoming the property of Rail and Road LLC with no refunds.
Yes, out-of-state buyers picking up items in Indiana are subject to a 7% Indiana sales tax, as per state law. Exceptions are available for tax-exempt buyers with valid certificates.
For any additional questions, please email us at info@RARauctions.com. We appreciate your choosing Rail & Road, and we strive to make your bidding experience as positive as possible.