Buying brewing equipment at auctions in Ohio can be a cost-effective way to upgrade your brewery or start a new venture. However, without proper preparation, buyers can make costly mistakes that impact their business. Here are the top five mistakes to avoid when purchasing brewing equipment at auctions.

1. Failing to Research the Equipment Thoroughly
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is not conducting enough research before placing a bid. Auction listings often provide basic descriptions, but they may not include all relevant details about the condition, age, or specifications of the equipment.

How to Avoid It:

Research the specific model and brand to understand its performance and reliability.
Request additional photos or documentation if available.
Compare the auction price with the market value to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
2. Ignoring Hidden Costs
The price you bid isn’t always the final cost. Many buyers overlook additional expenses such as auction fees, taxes, transportation, and installation.

How to Avoid It:

Read the auction terms to identify the buyer’s premiums and any applicable taxes.
Calculate transportation costs, especially for large tanks or fermenters.
Factor in installation expenses, including electrical and plumbing modifications.
3. Overlooking Equipment Condition and Functionality
Auctioned equipment is often sold “as-is,” meaning there are no guarantees or warranties. Some buyers assume that everything is in working condition, only to find costly repairs are needed.

How to Avoid It:

Inspect the equipment in person if possible.
Ask for maintenance records or past usage details.
If in doubt, bring a brewing equipment expert to assess potential repairs.
4. Bidding Emotionally Instead of Strategically
Auctions can be competitive, and it’s easy to get caught up in bidding wars. Overbidding can lead to paying more than what the equipment is worth, negating the cost savings of buying at an auction.

How to Avoid It:

Set a maximum budget before the auction begins.
Stick to your limit and avoid impulsive bidding.
If the price exceeds your budget, be prepared to walk away and explore other options.
5. Failing to Plan for Logistics and Storage
Winning a bid is only the first step; you also need a plan for moving and storing the equipment. Many auctions have strict pickup deadlines, and failure to retrieve your items on time can result in extra storage fees or even forfeiture of the equipment.

How to Avoid It:

Confirm pickup deadlines and transportation requirements before bidding.
Arrange for professional movers or freight services if needed.
Ensure you have adequate space for storage or installation at your brewery.
Conclusion
Buying brewing equipment at auctions can be a smart investment, but only if you avoid these common mistakes. By researching equipment, understanding costs, inspecting conditions, bidding strategically, and planning logistics, you can maximize your auction purchases and set your brewery up for success.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Brewing Equipment at Auctions

Hi! I am Javier Silvia an expert in conducting online auctions and I have been working in this industry for the last 5 years. I am not the owner of the content which has been published here. This content is only for knowledge purposes. This content belongs to the respective owners and I do not hold any right to this content.