Why you need a licensed dealer
Copart and IAAI decide who may bid on each lot. Depending on the state and the title, many cars can only be bought by a business with a dealer license. A private buyer either skips those cars or buys through a licensed dealer who bids for them.
A3Dynamix is a licensed California dealer (Lic. 72605). We bid with our license, on your instructions and never above the maximum you set.
How it works, step by step
- Pick a lot yourself, or tell us the make, years and budget and we find options.
- We check the history (Carfax, AutoCheck), the title and the photos. If you want, our inspector checks the car at the yard ($200).
- You set the maximum bid in writing. The auction holds a deposit before we bid: on Copart 10% of your maximum, at least $800.
- We bid live. If we win, you pay the balance within 3 calendar days; if not, the deposit comes back or moves to the next lot.
- We arrange the title, the paperwork and transport to your door or to the export port.
What it costs
On top of the winning bid you pay the auction fees (buyer fee, online bid fee, gate and other fees), transport, and our service fee: $300 if you choose the car yourself (for Copart and IAAI lots nothing is paid up front — the whole $300 is due after the win), or $800 if we search for you.
Our calculator shows the approximate fees and delivery for any bid: autoa3.com/calculator.html
Risks to keep in mind
- Most Copart and IAAI cars come from insurers: salvage titles, accident damage, sometimes flood. A salvage title affects insurance, registration and resale.
- Photos do not show everything. That is why we look at the history, the title and, if you want, inspect the car at the yard.
- A lot that keeps coming back "Not Sold" may have a high reserve or a hidden problem — we check earlier sales of the same VIN.
Want us to work out the cost for your car?
Tell us the car or the lot number — we reply the same day with the full cost and the next steps.
More guides
