Buy Cars on IAA Auction: Simple, global, and transparent
Insurance Auto Auctions is a major online marketplace for vehicles and powersports. It uses a digital auction model that makes it easy to browse, bid, and complete a purchase from any device. If you are buying a car at IAA auction, you will find a wide mix of conditions, clear listing data, and multiple ways to transact.
IAA serves buyers worldwide through internet auctions and fixed‑price listings. Clients include insurers, dealerships, rental fleets, and charitable organizations. Inventory updates daily, which helps buyers source consistent stock across many categories.
Ownership and HQ information is public. IAA Holdings, LLC operates the platform as part of a global assets group with core leadership based near Chicago.
From local yard to international platform: IAA in brief
IAA traces its roots to the early 1980s. The business started as a focused venue for damaged vehicles that still had resale value. The model grew quickly as insurance companies and fleets needed an efficient way to remarket total loss and high‑mileage units.
In the 1990s the auction expanded to dozens of sites and scaled volumes sharply. Today, IAA online auto auctions list a large number of vehicles each year and support buyers across many countries.
What sells on IAA and how buying works?
When you search for cars on IAA, you will see a broad range:
- Passenger vehicles like sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, crossovers, and wagons
- Pickups, vans, light commercial vehicles
- Motorcycles and powersports like ATVs and jet skis
- Recreational and specialty units where available
Title types and conditions vary. You will see salvage cars, recovered theft units, decommissioned fleet vehicles, and donation cars. Clean title inventory appears at times as well. Some vehicles need parts or structural work. Others are suitable for export or for dismantling and resale of components.
How to start buying a car at IAA?
- Register online. Create an account to view full details, save searches, and manage payments.
- Membership. Many buyers choose a paid annual plan to unlock higher bidding limits and extra tools. Entry‑level registration is also available.
- Deposits. Plan a refundable deposit that is often set at 10 percent of your intended maximum bid. This helps manage exposure and maintain transparent bidding rules.
- Licensing. Many IAA sales are open to the public. Certain categories may still require a license. If you do not hold one, you can use an authorized IAA broker service to place bids on your behalf.
- Auction schedule. IAA runs frequent online events. You can bid in real time from desktop or mobile apps. Use pre‑bids and watchlists to stay organized.
- Buy Now. Select listings can be purchased instantly with IAA Buy Now. This is useful when you want to skip live bidding.
- Payment. Pay for won lots by bank transfer such as SWIFT. Other options can be available depending on your account settings.
- Transport. Arrange yard pickup and delivery to a terminal or warehouse. Tracking tools help you monitor each step.
Tip. Review title status, seller notes, and all photos. If possible, order an independent inspection before you commit to a high value lot.
Why buyers choose IAA?
- Scale and variety across many price points and categories
- Clear rules for registration, deposits, and fees
- Multiple purchase paths including live bidding and Buy Now
- Options for public buyers and licensed dealers
- Tools for logistics planning and delivery tracking
Need help with sourcing and logistics on IAA Auction?
Columb Trade supports buyers with IAA broker services, lot checks, bidding strategy, and door to port delivery. We help you buy cars on IAA Auction with confidence and ship to your market with clear timelines and costs.