Buying a car at the American Copart and IAAI auctions lets you get a vehicle 20–40% cheaper than the local market. The process scares beginners — English-only bidding, dealer-only access, ocean shipping. Let's break it down step by step.
Why US auctions are worth it
Tens of thousands of cars hit Copart and IAAI every day: insurance lots, lightly damaged cars and fully intact vehicles. Volume and competition keep prices below retail while the choice of trims and conditions is enormous.
The step-by-step process
- 1. Pick a lot. We select cars by VIN, year, mileage and damage type. Our catalog already lists curated Buy Now options.
- 2. Contract and deposit. We sign a contract and place a deposit that opens a bidding limit.
- 3. Bidding. Our buyers bid on your behalf and never exceed your agreed cap.
- 4. Lot payment. Full payment via SWIFT within 1–2 days.
- 5. Delivery to port. A car carrier takes the vehicle to the departure port.
- 6. Ocean shipping. Container loading and delivery to Klaipeda or Kotka — 30–45 days.
- 7. Customs and handover. Clearance at EAEU rates and document issuance.
Timing and price factors
On average the whole journey takes 60–70 days. The final cost is the lot price, auction fee, US inland delivery, ocean freight and customs. Calculate it upfront with our calculator — no hidden fees.
Ready to start? Browse the catalog and pick a car — we'll handle the deal turnkey.
