IronPlanet Auction Equipment Shipping: Complete Buyer's Guide

Step 1: Complete Payment Within 3 Business Days

IronPlanet requires full payment within three (3) business days of the auction. Failure to pay on time can result in default penalties and loss of the item. Payment methods accepted by IronPlanet include wire transfer, credit card (for smaller purchases), and IronPlanet's financing partners. Once payment is confirmed, IronPlanet processes your Item Release Form.

Step 2: Get Your Item Release Form

After full payment is received (and any required security clearances are approved for items requiring an End-Use Certificate), IronPlanet will make your Item Release Form available in your account. This form contains:

• The seller's location and contact information (if the seller has authorized release)
• The Item Release Code required for pickup
• Any special pickup instructions or site requirements
• The pickup deadline (8 business days from auction date)

For items requiring "IronPlanet Pickup Support," contact IronPlanet customer support to receive the site name and address after scheduling a pickup window.

Step 3: Book Your Transporter Immediately

This is where many buyers lose time. The 8-business-day pickup window sounds generous, but it disappears quickly when you factor in:

• Carrier availability (good lowboy carriers book out 3–5 days in advance)
• Permit processing time (1–5 business days for oversize loads)
• Seller site scheduling (some locations require advance appointments)

Book your transporter the same day you receive your Item Release Form — ideally before you even have the form, by contacting IronHaul Logistics as soon as you win the auction. We can begin the permit and carrier process while you complete payment.

Step 4: Provide Accurate Equipment Dimensions

IronPlanet does not provide additional dimensions beyond what is listed in the inspection report. Before booking transport, gather:

• Operating weight: Listed in the inspection report; confirm with the manufacturer's spec sheet for your model year
• Transport dimensions: Width, height, and length in transport position (boom down, blade lowered, etc.)
• Running condition: Can the machine drive on/off a trailer under its own power? Non-running equipment requires a crane or forklift for loading

Inaccurate dimensions can result in the wrong trailer being dispatched, permit violations, or the carrier refusing to load the equipment at the pickup site.

Step 5: Understand What IronPlanet Does (and Doesn't) Do

IronPlanet does not transport equipment or coordinate shipments. Their role ends when they release the item to you. Specifically:

• IronPlanet will not load equipment into containers or dismantle items for transport (unless the seller agrees to provide these services for an additional fee)
• IronPlanet partners with VeriTread for non-binding shipping estimates — these are estimates only, not bookings
• The buyer is solely responsible for arranging and paying for transport

Step 6: Pickup Documentation Requirements

When your carrier arrives at the pickup site, they must present:

• The Item Release Form (printed or digital)
• The Item Release Code
• For government-site pickups: personal identification, proper paperwork, and proof of insurance

Make sure your carrier has all required documentation before they depart for the pickup site. Missing documentation can result in the carrier being turned away, wasting a day and potentially triggering storage fees.

Step 7: Know the Storage Fee and Abandonment Policy

IronPlanet's storage and abandonment policy is strict:

• Equipment not removed within 8 business days of the auction allows the seller to charge storage fees
• Items not removed within 60 days may be deemed abandoned and disposed of, with all accrued storage fees and commissions deducted from any proceeds

Storage fees vary by seller location but can be $50–$200+ per day for large equipment. On a 30-day delay, that's $1,500–$6,000 in avoidable costs.

Common Mistakes IronPlanet Buyers Make

• Waiting to book transport: The most common mistake. Book your carrier the day you win — not after you receive the Item Release Form
• Providing wrong dimensions: Always verify dimensions against the manufacturer's spec sheet, not just the auction listing
• Assuming the equipment runs: Non-running equipment requires crane or forklift loading, which adds cost and time. Confirm running condition before booking
• Not accounting for permit time: Oversize loads need permits that take 1–5 business days. Factor this into your pickup timeline
• Ignoring export documentation: If you're exporting the equipment, you must provide a Bill of Lading or export documents within IronPlanet's required timeframe or you may be charged sales tax

IronHaul Logistics specializes in IronPlanet auction pickups nationwide. We know the process, the documentation requirements, and how to move fast when the 8-day clock is ticking. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form as soon as you win your auction — we'll handle the rest.