How can I sell my storage unit contents on StorageTreasures?
- You will first need to read our Private Seller Rules.
- Initially, you need to make sure your unit is rented at an allowed facility. Refer to the Prohibited Facilities list.
- Next, review the How-to-Guides to learn how to set up your account, how to post and close a sale, and other details to successfully sell your unit contents on ST.
- Make sure to check out the Best Practices for tips to sell your unit for the highest price possible.
- Have fun!
What are the fees to post a Private Seller auction on StorageTreasures?
There is no fee to post an auction on StorageTreasures. Here are the fees to sell and cancel a Private Seller auction:
SELLER'S PREMIUM
We charge a 10% seller's premium (of the sales price).
CANCELLATION FEE
We charge a $20 cancellation fee to the credit card on file for each cancelled auction.
What facilities do not allow Private Seller auctions?
Please refer to the Prohibited Facilities list.
What facilities allow Private Seller auctions?
A Private Seller MUST have approval from the facility manager or staff in order to post a Private Seller auction on StorageTreasures. The facility MUST be an allowed facility, and not on the Prohibited Facilities list. The facility manager or staff should be informed that a non-tenant buyer will be allowed access onto the property to pick up the storage unit contents.
In addition, the Private Seller must confirm that the lease agreement does not contain a provision that prohibits business transactions from occurring at the storage unit.
StorageTreasures may contact the storage facility to confirm that they were informed by the Private Seller (their tenant) that an auction for the sale of their unit contents will be conducted on the property, and that they approve of any such sale.
Can I post an auction out of my garage or shed?
No. Your storage unit must be located at an allowed storage facility. See Private Seller Rules/Location of Unit.
I want to sell at different storage facilities. How do I add the different locations to my Private Seller account?
Private Sellers can post auctions from multiple storage facilities on StorageTreasures.com under one user account. Confirm each facility is allowed and not on the Prohibited Facilities list. To add additional facilities to a Private Seller user account, you will need to call or email Customer Support for assistance.
How do I enter a credit card in my Private Seller Account?
Call Customer Support at 480-397-6503 to add a credit card to your account profile. DO NOT email or chat Customer Support with your credit card information.
Can I charge sales tax for my Private Seller auctions?
Individual Private Sellers CANNOT charge sales tax.
If you have a valid Resale Business, you can charge sales tax ONLY if the following is provided:
A permit to collect or remit sales tax in the business name MUST be emailed to support@storagetreasures.com PRIOR to posting an auction. If a valid license is not provided before the auction is posted, sales tax will be removed from the auction.
Can I edit an auction after posting it?
Private Sellers can edit an Active Auction as long as there are no bids placed on the auction. Once bids have been placed, you CANNOT edit the auction.
We will NOT remove or exclude items from an auction with bids. You would have to cancel and repost the auction.
Can I set a reserve on my auction?
StorageTreasures does not provide an option to set reserves or minimums on an auction so that bidding can start at a certain amount. Due to the large number of bidders that participate in ST auctions, the bidders set the market price. Refer to Private Seller Rules/No Reserve Auctions for additional information.
How long should my auction run?
We recommend that auctions run for 7 to 10 days for best results.
Can I cancel my Private Seller auction?
Yes, as long as it is cancelled in Active status before it closes. You CANNOT cancel an auction after it has sold. For additional information, see the Private Seller Rules/Cancellations.
What is the difference between a Lien and Non-Lien unit?
A lien unit is a storage unit where the tenant is behind on rent, and the storage facility is selling the contents to recoup their debt. A Non-Lien unit does not have a lien attached. Private Seller auctions MUST be posted as a Non-Lien/Manager Special.
What items can I sell in a Private Seller auction?
For a detailed list of allowed and prohibited items, refer to our Private Seller Rules/Items to Sell.
Can I sell a vehicle, firearms, or liquidation items in my auction?
In most cases, yes. However, we have specific rules that must be met before selling these types of items. Please refer to Private Seller Rules/Items to Sell
Why are categories important to use in my auction posting?
Our bidders search by categories and keywords. The categories should MATCH what is described in the unit.
What is a cleaning deposit?
A cleaning deposit is an additional amount that is collected by the Seller, which is refundable to the Buyer once the unit has been emptied and broom swept. The cleaning deposit is payable in cash only. See How to Set up a Private Seller Account for additional details.
Can I bid on my own auction?
Absolutely NOT! Shill bidding is strictly prohibited. This is the illegal practice of a Private Seller or a Private Seller's acquaintances placing bids on the auction in order to drive up the price.
What happens when an auction ends?
Typically, you and the Buyer will receive a Paid Invoice. You will need to contact the Buyer, schedule a time to meet outside of the storage facility gate, collect the sale proceeds and cleaning deposit, and escort the Buyer to the unit for clean-out. For detailed instructions, refer to How to Complete a Private Seller Auction.
What if the Buyer’s credit card declines?
The Buyer has 24 hours to pay the fees to StorageTreasures, or the unit can be offered to the next highest bidder. For detailed information, see How to Complete a Private Seller Auction/Declined Invoice.
How do I handle an issue with a Buyer?
The auction sale is between you and the Buyer. You need to attempt to resolve the issue with the Buyer to come to an amicable resolution. For more tips, see Private Seller Rules/Issues with the Sale.
I have not heard from the winning Buyer, what do I do?
First, try to call the Buyer. Their contact information is provided on the Invoice. If you are unsuccessful and the clean-out time has expired, contact Customer Support to request a backup bidder. Refer to the Private Seller Rules/No Show Buyer for instructions on this process.