Everything You Need To Know About Hemmings Auction

The world of car auctions can be thrilling, especially if you're a classic car enthusiast or simply interested in buying or selling vehicles. One platform that has gained significant attention is Hemmings Auction. Known as one of the oldest and most respected marketplaces for classic cars, Hemmings has expanded its range which includes online auctions, allowing buyers and sellers to connect like never before. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding how Hemmings Auction works, its unique benefits, and how to arrange a smooth transaction with a reliable car shipping company.

What Is Hemmings Auction?

Hemmings Motor News, often referred to simply as Hemmings, started in 1954 as a printed publication dedicated to classic car enthusiasts. Over the years, it has evolved from a magazine to an online platform, now offering a wide range of services, including car listings, news, and an online auction service. The Hemmings Auction allows sellers to list their classic or collectible cars, while buyers have a secure place to bid on unique vehicles.

How Does Hemmings Auction Work?

Participating in a Hemmings Auction is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:

1. Listing the Vehicle: Sellers start by submitting their cars to Hemmings. Each listing undergoes a review process to ensure it meets Hemmings’ standards, which helps maintain the quality of the auction offerings.

2. Auction Live Time: Once approved, the car is listed for auction. Hemmings typically runs each auction for a period of 7 days.

3. Bidding Process: Buyers can place bids on the vehicle. Unlike some other auction platforms, Hemmings charges a buyer’s fee of 5% on top of the winning bid, with a minimum fee of $500.

4. Finalizing the Sale: At the end of the auction, the highest bidder wins the vehicle. Hemmings connects the buyer and seller to complete the sale, providing a secure transaction environment.

For buyers, the process is as simple as browsing the auction listings, placing a bid, and awaiting the outcome. Hemmings offers tools like saved searches and alerts to make it easier for users to find cars that fit their interests.

Why Choose Hemmings Auction?

Choosing Hemmings Auction has some clear benefits, particularly for collectors. Here are a few reasons why car enthusiasts turn to Hemmings:

• Reputation: Hemmings is known as a trustworthy brand in the classic car industry, with over six decades of experience. Many buyers and sellers feel confident using Hemmings due to its longstanding reputation.

• Wide Audience: Hemmings reaches an audience of over 200,000 monthly visitors, making it one of the most viewed sites for car enthusiasts in the U.S. This means a higher chance of attracting competitive bids.

• Curated Listings: Each vehicle on Hemmings Auction is reviewed by experts, ensuring that only high-quality cars are listed. This adds a level of trust that’s hard to find on some other platforms.

Statistics on Classic Car Auctions

The classic car market has been steadily growing. According to a report from Hagerty, the classic car auction industry saw a 19% increase in 2023, with more than $2 billion in total sales. Hemmings Auction has contributed significantly to this market by providing an online platform that makes it easier for both buyers and sellers to participate in the classic car market from anywhere in the country.

Hemmings vs. Other Auction Sites

While Hemmings Auction is highly regarded, there are other platforms to consider, such as Bring a Trailer and eBay Motors. Here’s a comparison of these platforms to give you an idea of what makes Hemmings stand out:

Platform Audience Size Auction Fees Listing Approval Process

Hemmings 200,000 monthly 5% buyer’s fee Curated listings

Bring a Trailer 300,000 monthly 5% buyer’s fee Extensive review

eBay Motors Millions Variable fees Limited review

Hemmings stands out for its curated listings, which ensures a level of quality control that is sometimes missing on broader platforms like eBay Motors.

Shipping Your Auction Car

One major aspect of buying or selling a car at auction is figuring out how to get it to its new location. Here’s where a car shipping company comes in handy. Many buyers purchase cars from Hemmings Auction from a different state or even across the country. Using a car shipping company can make this process easier and more affordable.

Why Use a Car Shipping Company?

Car shipping companies specialize in transporting vehicles safely and efficiently. Here’s why you might want to consider using one after a Hemmings Auction:

1. Convenience: Arranging for a car shipping company to handle transportation is often much easier than trying to drive the vehicle, especially if it’s far from your home.

2. Safety: Car shipping companies have the equipment and experience needed to transport cars without damaging them. This is especially important for classic and collectible cars, which may have unique needs.

3. Cost-Effective: Transporting a vehicle can actually save money when you factor in fuel, wear and tear, and time off work.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average cost of shipping a car across the country can range between $1,200 and $1,500, depending on the distance and type of car. Although this may sound like a large sum, it is often much more practical than trying to drive a collectible car long distances.

Tips for Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

When selecting a car shipping company, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Check Reviews: Look at reviews and ratings on platforms like the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company has a good reputation.

• Verify Licensing: Make sure the company is licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which is a good indicator that they meet industry standards.

• Ask About Insurance: Confirm that the company offers sufficient insurance coverage for your vehicle. Classic cars may need special coverage, so it’s essential to ask about this upfront.

Hemmings Auction has become a popular choice for both buyers and sellers of classic cars, and it’s easy to see why. Its reputation, audience reach, and attention to quality make it a reliable option for enthusiasts looking to buy or sell classic vehicles. Plus, with the option to arrange transport through a car shipping company, buyers and sellers can participate in auctions no matter where they are in the country.

Whether you're looking to buy your dream car or sell a collectible that’s been in the family for years, Hemmings Auction offers a trusted platform for doing so. Just remember to plan early for shipping if needed, so your car reaches its new home safely and on time. Happy bidding!

A passionate blogger focused on the automotive industry.