How Storage Auctions Work
Storage auctions in Springfield occur when renters abandon their units or fail to pay rent. Missouri law requires facilities to follow specific legal procedures before auctioning unit contents, including sending proper notice to the tenant and advertising the auction publicly. The unit is then sold as-is to the highest bidder at a public auction.
Storage auctions gained widespread popularity through TV shows like Storage Wars, American Storage, and Auction Kings. While these shows entertaining dramatize the process, real storage auctions require patience, research, and strategic bidding to be successful.
The Legal Process
Missouri’s storage lien law (RSMo §410.200) governs how facilities can dispose of abandoned property:
- Default: The renter stops paying rent or abandons the unit.
- Notice: The facility sends written notice to the last known address via certified mail.
- Advertising: The facility advertises the auction in a newspaper of general circulation.
- Waiting Period: A minimum waiting period (typically 30+ days) allows the renter to claim the unit.
- Auction: If unclaimed, the unit contents are sold at public auction.
- ** proceeds**: Proceeds first satisfy the lien, with any remainder held for the former tenant.
What Happens at a Storage Auction
On auction day, facilities follow a standardized process:
Registration: Bidders arrive early (typically 30-60 minutes before the auction) to register and receive a bidder number. Bring a valid ID and be prepared to show proof of funds if required.
Preview Period: Facilities typically allow a brief preview period where bidders can view unit contents from the doorway. You cannot enter the unit or move items during preview. Use this time wisely to assess potential value.
Bidding Process: The auctioneer opens bidding on each unit. Bidding increments vary but typically start low and increase as interest builds. When no further bids are received, the highest bidder wins.
Payment: Winning bidders must pay immediately, usually in cash. Some facilities accept cashier’s checks or credit cards with additional fees. Payment must be made before you can take possession of the unit.
Cleanout: Once paid, you receive a lock and typically have 24-72 hours to empty the unit completely. All contents must be removed, and the unit must be left clean and broom-swept.
Tips for Storage Auction Bidders
Before the Auction
Research Unit Sizes: Understand what different unit sizes typically contain. A 5x5 unit will hold much less than a 10x20, and bidding should reflect this difference.
Set a Maximum Bid: Decide the most you’re willing to spend on any unit before the auction begins. It’s easy to get caught up in competitive bidding, so discipline is essential.
Bring Enough Cash: Most storage auctions are cash-only. Bring small bills ($1s, $5s, $10s, $20s) as change may not be available. A typical budget of $200-$500 per unit provides reasonable flexibility.
Arrive Early: Registration and preview periods are time-limited. Arriving 45-60 minutes early ensures you have time to complete paperwork and assess units.
Bring Supplies: Pack these essentials:
- Cash (sufficient for your maximum bid)
- Valid photo ID
- Flashlight for viewing unit contents
- Gloves for handling potentially dirty or sharp items
- Lock for your winning unit
- Hand truck or dolly for moving heavy items
- Trash bags for cleanup
During the Auction
Watch Before Bidding: Observe the first few units to understand the auctioneer’s pace, bidding increments, and crowd dynamics.
Don’t Overbid: Stick to your maximum budget regardless of excitement or competition. Not every unit contains valuable items.
Assess Quickly: During preview, look for indicators of value: furniture shapes, electronics boxes, tool chests, labeled moving boxes. Avoid units with visible mold, pest damage, or excessive water damage.
Know When to Walk Away: If bidding exceeds your budget, let the unit go. There will be other auctions with better opportunities.
After Winning
Pay Promptly: Complete payment immediately as required. Delayed payment may result in losing the unit to the next highest bidder.
Clean Within Timeframe: Most facilities require complete cleanout within 24-72 hours. Plan your time accordingly.
Sort and Evaluate: Once removed, sort items into categories:
- Sellable items: List on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or hold a yard sale
- Keep: Items you want to use personally
- Donate: Usable items for charitable organizations
- Dispose: Trash or items below selling value
Document Everything: Photograph valuable items for online listings and insurance purposes.
What to Expect at Springfield Storage Auctions
Springfield storage auctions typically occur at facilities throughout the city, with several auctions happening monthly. Common auction locations include facilities along S Campbell Ave, N Glenstone Ave, and E Sunshine St.
Auction Schedule Tips
- Check facility websites for upcoming auction announcements
- Call facilities directly to confirm dates and times
- Follow local storage facilities on social media for auction notifications
- Arrive 45-60 minutes early for registration and preview
Typical Auction Items
Storage units can contain virtually anything, but common finds include:
- Household furniture (tables, chairs, couches, beds)
- Electronics (TVs, computers, gaming systems)
- Tools (hand tools, power tools, workshop equipment)
- Sports equipment (bikes, camping gear, fishing tackle)
- Collectibles (coins, stamps, sports memorabilia)
- Clothing and accessories
- Books and media
- Business inventory and equipment
- Vehicles (in larger units)
Storage Auction Risks
Unknown Contents
You’re bidding without fully knowing what’s inside. Units may contain valuable treasures or mostly trash. Research and experience help minimize risk.
Cleaning Costs
Factor in the cost and time required to empty and clean the unit. Some units require significant cleanup before you can assess contents.
Hazardous Materials
Some units may contain hazardous materials, chemicals, or biohazardous waste that require special handling and disposal.
Time Investment
Sorting, cleaning, listing, and selling items takes significant time. Storage auctions are not a guaranteed quick-profit opportunity.