Preview vs Live bidding
What is this?
Preview lets you inspect lots before bidding opens; Live bidding is when bids are accepted.
How does it work?
- During Preview, view eligible lots, photos, condition, disclosures and location; auction prices are visible only to approved dealers with buying or bidding access, and no bids are taken.
- At the published opening time the auction becomes Live bidding.
- The auction page always shows one state: Preview, Live bidding or Auction ended.
What do I need to do?
- Use Preview to review condition, photos and location, and add lots to your Watch List.
What happens next?
When bidding opens, every open lot shows its countdown.
Last reviewed October 7, 2026
Related
- When bidding opensEach auction publishes its preview time, its bidding opening time and when its first and last lots close.
- How auctions workRegular auctions follow their event schedule and lot order. A 60-Minute Auction has its own single-unit opening and initial one-hour bidding window; later stages or extensions can change its final close.
Didn’t solve it? The Ride support team answers RideAuction questions by email.
Contact RideAuction