ACV Auctions in California | Dealer Guide

What Is ACV Auctions?

ACV Auctions is a leading digital marketplace for wholesale vehicles, specializing in 100% online auctions with real-time bidding. ACV focuses on:

Used vehicles from dealer trade-ins and fleet returns
Off-lease vehicles from major manufacturers
Rental car returns and fleet liquidation
Nationwide inventory (not limited to California)
Real-time live bidding via mobile app and web platform
Transparent condition reports with photos and vehicle history

For California dealers, ACV offers efficient sourcing with transparent pricing and consistent inventory flow across all vehicle types and price points.

Getting Started with ACV Auctions

Step 1: Verify Your Dealer License

You'll need an active California dealer license to register with ACV:

Retail Dealer License — Most common for ACV
Wholesale Dealer License — Also accepted

Step 2: Complete ACV Registration

Register online at ACV's dealer portal:

Provide your California dealer license number
Upload proof of bond and garage liability insurance
Verify business address and contact information
Complete identity verification and background check
Approval typically takes 1–3 business days

Step 3: Set Up Payment Method

Register a payment method (ACH, credit card, or floorplan)
Set your credit limit if using floorplan financing
Confirm payment instructions for winning bids

Step 4: Download the ACV App and Start Bidding

Download the ACV Auctions app or use the web platform
Browse upcoming auctions and filter by vehicle type, price, location
Place bids in real-time during live auction events
Arrange immediate transport after winning

ACV Auction Schedule and Frequency

ACV runs continuous auctions throughout the day with multiple daily events:

Auction Frequency: Multiple daily auctions (morning, midday, afternoon, evening)
Bidding Windows: Typically 20 minutes per auction lot
Nationwide Inventory: Vehicles from across the US available to California dealers
Peak Times: Mid-week auctions typically have higher inventory and competition

Pro Tip: Set up notifications in the ACV app to be alerted when vehicles matching your criteria are listed.

Understanding ACV Fees and Costs

Budget for all costs associated with ACV purchases:

Fee Type	Typical Range	Notes
Buyer Fee	$200–$600	Flat fee based on vehicle price tier
Title/Documentation	$25–$75	For title transfer and processing
Transport (CA to CA)	$0.80–$1.50/mile	For in-state deliveries
Transport (Out of state)	$1.50–$3.00/mile	For vehicles shipped from other states
Inspection Report	Included	ACV provides detailed condition report

Calculate Your All-In Cost: Hammer price + buyer fee + transport = true acquisition cost.

ACV Condition Reports and Inspection

What's Included in the ACV Inspection Report

Exterior damage assessment with photos
Interior condition and cleanliness
Mechanical status and test drive notes
Odometer reading and title status
Accident history and frame damage check
Service records and maintenance notes

Using Inspection Data to Bid Smarter

Read the report carefully before bidding
Note any damage or mechanical concerns
Factor inspection findings into your recon budget
Use damage data to calculate max bid accurately

Bidding Strategy at ACV

Before You Bid

Research recent comparable sales to establish market value
Review the condition report thoroughly
Calculate all-in cost including transport from source location
Set your maximum bid and use ACV's automatic bidding feature

During the Auction

Use the ACV app for real-time bidding alerts
Bid strategically—don't chase the price
Let ACV's auto-bid feature handle incremental bids
Walk away if the price exceeds your target margin

After You Win

Payment is due immediately (within 24 hours)
Arrange transport immediately to avoid storage fees
Track the vehicle's delivery status in the ACV app
Inspect upon arrival and document any discrepancies

ACV Returns and Arbitration

ACV offers a buyer protection policy with specific terms:

Return Window: Typically 7–14 days from delivery (varies by vehicle)
Valid Grounds: Major mechanical failure, title discrepancy, odometer fraud, frame damage
Invalid Grounds: Normal wear and tear, minor cosmetic issues, buyer's remorse
Return Process: Contact ACV support with photos and documentation
Refund Timeline: 10–15 business days after return approval

Pro Tip: Document vehicle condition immediately upon delivery with photos and video. This protects you in case of disputes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring transport costs: Out-of-state vehicles can have expensive transport; factor this in before bidding
Overbidding without margin: Set your max bid based on target retail price, not auction excitement
Missing payment deadlines: Payment due within 24 hours; delays can result in penalties
Not reviewing condition reports: Always read the inspection report before bidding
Forgetting about title delays: Title transfer can take 5–10 days; plan accordingly

Key Takeaways

✓ ACV is a 100% digital platform with multiple daily auctions
✓ Nationwide inventory gives you access to vehicles beyond California
✓ Registration requires an active dealer license and proof of insurance
✓ Detailed condition reports help you make informed bidding decisions
✓ Calculate all-in costs including transport before setting your max bid

Ready to Source Inventory on ACV?

ACV Auctions offers efficiency, transparency, and nationwide inventory access. Master the platform, develop a disciplined bidding strategy, and use condition reports to maximize your ROI.

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