Auction Financing

Learn how auction financing helps Canadian businesses bid and fund equipment purchases fast. See structures, costs, risks, and next steps.
Auction Financing
Written by
Alec Whitten
Published on
August 31, 2025

What is auction financing?

Auction financing is short-turnaround funding that lets you bid on and pay for equipment at auction without tying up cash. You’re pre-approved for a limit, receive proof-of-funds if needed, and get same-day or next-day funding to settle the invoice (including buyer’s premium, taxes, and fees). It’s common in trucking, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and hospitality when units sell “as-is, where-is” and must be paid quickly.

Explore options: Equipment Financing, Equipment Loans, Equipment Leases, and the flexible Equipment Line of Credit.

How it works (step by step)

  • Pre-qualify & set a ceiling. We size a limit from your cash flow, credit, and asset type; use the calculator to test payments.

  • Get proof of funds (if required). Some auctions ask for it before you bid.

  • Bid with confidence. Keep a walk-away price that includes buyer’s premium, taxes, transport, and repairs.

  • Fund & take possession. We wire funds against the auction invoice; you arrange pickup, plates, and insurance.

  • Register & operate. We perfect security (PPSA) and you go to work.

If you already own gear and need cash to bid, consider Refinancing & Sales-Leaseback or Asset-Based Lending.

Common structures used for auctions

Structure Why choose it End-of-term Best for
Equipment Loan Simple ownership, predictable amortization Own free and clear Long-life assets you’ll keep
Equipment Lease Lower monthly via residual/buyout $10/10%/FMV buyout Cash-flow sensitive purchases
Equipment Line of Credit Pre-approved limit; draw for auction wins Re-use as you repay Frequent buyers, multiple lots
Business Line of Credit Cover deposits, fees, transport Revolving Incidental costs around the sale

Also useful: Truck Repair Financing for post-purchase fixes.

Costs and risks to plan for

  • Buyer’s premium & taxes: Include provincial sales tax in your ceiling.

  • Transport, inspection, and plates: Add freight, temporary permits, and compliance.

  • “As-is” condition: Budget a repair reserve; link to Truck Repair Financing if needed.

  • Title and liens: We complete PPSA and serial-number checks before funding.

  • Useful life vs term: Align term to remaining life; see Transportation & Trucking and Construction & Contractors for asset-specific guidance.

Confirm your unit type on Eligible Equipment.

Quick case example

A GTA carrier wanted a used reefer trailer at auction. We pre-approved an equipment line of credit, issued proof of funds, and funded the win within 24 hours, including buyer’s premium and HST. The client booked loads immediately, then converted the draw to a fixed Equipment Loan for a lower rate once the trailer was earning.

FAQ

Is auction financing only short-term?
No. You can draw short-term to settle the invoice, then term-out into a loan or lease that matches cash flow.

Can I finance premiums, taxes, and transport?
Often yes. We can capitalize eligible costs so you conserve cash.

Do startups qualify?
Yes, with the right structure (down payment, co-signer, collateral). Ask about Equipment Leases and In-House Financing.

What documents do I need?
Business details, ID, bank statements, the auction invoice/lot info, insurance, and unit photos/serials.

What if I already own equipment but need cash to bid?
Use a sale-leaseback to unlock equity, or a Business Line of Credit for working capital.

How do I estimate payments quickly?
Model scenarios in the calculator, then we’ll quote firm terms.

Are you looking for a truck? Look at our used inventory.
Ready to get pre-approved before auction day? Feel free to contact our credit analysts via Contact Us.

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