The University began using an eBay-like Web site last week to auction off its used property, including items such as LCD screen monitors, copy machines, stainless steel carts, fire extinguishers and a massage table.
The site, Govdeals.com, is designed for local and state government agencies wishing to auction off surplus and confiscated goods, according to owner Liquidity Services’ Web site. Before switching to the Web site Nov. 10, the University sold its used property at more traditional public auctions, University Surplus Property Manager Bobby Carefoot said.
The switch to Govdeals.com has allowed the University to move stockpiled or stored items out much more efficiently than before, Carefoot noted. According to a University press release, the University also is disposing of some surplus items through Charles W. Hurt LLC. That company will sell larger items, such as furniture, for which the University will receive a portion of the profits. The first pick-up occurred Nov. 18, according to the University Surplus Property’s Web site.
One of the biggest advantages of the new system is that it reduces the amount of storage space the University must rent, said Eric Denby, University director of procurement services. He noted that the new system is also advantageous because it significantly increases the number of consumers the University can reach during the bidding process.
“We’ve had customers from California, Idaho, just about everywhere,” Carefoot said.
The Web site is very easy to use, both Carefoot and Denby said. If a University department has a surplus of any item, the department submits a form stating which items are surplus. Members of the Surplus Property Office bring the items to the surplus warehouse where they take pictures of the items that are then posted along with a description online, Carefoot said. Departments selling surplus items will receive profits exceeding $50, according to the University press release; lesser sales contribute to computer recycling costs.
According to Govdeals.com, the items are up for auction for six days. According to the press release, items that do not sell are taken off the market. Carefoot’s office then will consider submitting a new written description or a better photograph for the item, or the item could be included with other items like it. If an item is purchased, the winning bidder has five days to submit payment, Carefoot said, noting that his office has yet to encounter a problem receiving payments from bidders.
“We’ve had zero problems; we’re very pleased,” Denby said, adding that he is fully confident that the University will continue to use govdeals.com to sell its surplus goods in the future.
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