Sold & Collected is a direct buyer, so this guide explains where our service fits. A private advert or auction can also be worth considering; no single route delivers the highest price or quickest sale in every case.
| Consideration | Direct buyer | Private sale | Auction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | An individual offer reflecting condition, preparation and collection. | You choose the asking price; the price achieved depends on demand and negotiation. | The result depends on bidding and the auction terms; a sale is not guaranteed. |
| Costs to check | Sold & Collected charges no seller fee for an agreed purchase. Confirm the offer and collection terms. | Advertising, preparation, repairs and the cost of keeping the asset while it is for sale. | Seller commission, entry charges, transport, storage and any unsold fees. Ask for the full schedule. |
| Your time | Supply details, answer follow-up questions and agree any inspection and handover. | Prepare an advert, respond to messages and arrange viewings and handover. | Prepare the entry, meet deadlines and follow the auction's delivery and payment process. |
| Collection | Planned by agreement around the asset, access and location. | Agree with the buyer who arranges transport and pays for it. | Check whether delivery to a venue or collection from your premises is required. |
When a private sale may suit you
If the asset presents well and you can handle adverts, enquiries and viewings, a private sale may achieve a higher price. Allow for the time involved and be realistic about an asking price: similar advertised assets may not have sold at those figures.
When to consider an auction
An auction may suit an asset with a specialist audience or several machines being sold together. Ask how reserves work, what happens if an item does not sell, when payment is released and which charges apply. Compare the expected amount you retain after fees and transport with any direct offer.
When a direct buyer may suit you
A direct enquiry can be useful when you prefer one buyer, want to discuss an asset with faults, or need collection assessed before deciding. The offer must account for condition, preparation and transport, so it may be lower than a private retail sale. With Sold & Collected, the enquiry is free and accepting an offer is optional.
Compare like for like
- Describe the same faults, included equipment and paperwork to each potential buyer.
- Compare the amount you would receive after seller charges and transport.
- Check whether the figure is provisional or confirmed after inspection.
- Agree who arranges collection, any access requirements and the handover timing.
- Consider ongoing storage costs while deciding how long you can wait.
For example, a higher auction result can leave you with less than a lower direct offer once commission and transport are deducted. Equally, a well-presented caravan with strong private interest may justify the work of advertising it yourself. Use actual written figures for your asset rather than assumed percentages.
Get an assessment for your asset
Choose the relevant page to request a free valuation: caravans, motorhomes, vans or plant and machinery. Any purchase remains subject to inspection, ownership checks and agreed terms.
Before enquiring, see how we assess value and which photos help.
Request a free valuation →