Copart Common Misconceptions

At Copart, we work to ensure that our Members enjoy the best buying experience, and leave completely satisfied with their purchase.

We are committed to conducting business properly, making a positive impact, and most importantly, we strive to exceed expectations. If a Member is unhappy with the business, customer service or vehicle they received at Copart, we aim to ensure that the concern is immediately addressed.

Before bidding on a Copart vehicle, it is important to take advantage of Copart's resources to ensure you are aware of all of the steps in the buying process.  Many problems our Members experience are the result of a misunderstanding surrounding the way the Copart buying process works, and we are here to debunk some popular myths and alleviate confusion. Let’s get started!

Myth #1: Copart Has Hidden Fees

While Member Fees do exist at Copart, no fees are hidden from our Members, and the list can be accessed at any time. It is important for Members to reserach and educate themselves on which fees are relevant to them and what to expect before placing a bid on a vehicle. Copart Member Fees can be influenced by payment method and bidding method. Learn more about the different payment options.

Please note: the US member fees are not the same as Canada member fees.

Myth #2: Copart Sells New Vehicles

If the vehicle you won at Copart is not what you expected, we apologize for the confusion and want to ensure that your next buying experience is exactly what you are expecting.

While low-mileage, late year model gems with minimal damage do pass through Copart’s patented VB3 auction platform, it is important to remember that most vehicles in Copart's auctions are salvage title vehicles, meaning they have been damage and as detailed in our Member Terms and Conditions, every lot listed for auction is advertised and listed AS IS.

Remember: Copart is not a new or used car dealership and should not be treated as such. We encourage our Members and prospective Buyers to visit our physical locations to preview vehicles of interest prior to auction. Viewing the vehicles in person is a great step to better assess the true condition of the vehicle. If you are unable to visit a Copart location in person, a third-party inspection service may be useful to help you make an informed buying decision. View our list of Copart approved inspectors.

Have questions? Learn more about the Copart buying process with our FAQs.

Myth #3: Copart Has Misleading Terms

Copart uses unique terminology which can be confusing to members who are not already familiar with Copart. Understanding what our terminology means will help you become a well-informed Buyer.

• Run and Drive: This is the most misunderstood Copart term. This term means that, when the vehicle arrived at the Copart location, Copart agents verified that the vehicle would start, could be put into gear and can move forward and backwards a few feet under its own power. There is no guarantee that this is still true by the time a vehicle is picked up on location. There is also no guarantee, representation or warrant that the vehicle is in roadworthy condition, or can be driven lawfully on the road.

• Engine Start Program At the time a vehicle arrives at a Copart facility, Copart agents verified that the vehicle started and ran at idle. There is no guarantee, representation or warrant that the vehicle will start or run at idle at the time the vehicle is picked up at a Copart location.

• Seller Certified: For vehicles which have the "Seller Certified" description Members that are not completely satisfied with their purchase, have the right to decline to complete the purchase transaction without any penalties, fees or charges. This must take place before leaving Copart premises, or the Member must understand and agree that s/he accepts the vehicle AS IS pursuant to Copart’s Member Terms and Conditions.

• Current and Pre-Bid: What about bidding lingo? A “Current Bid” at Copart is the highest price offered for a lot at a specific time. There may be a higher maximum bid being represented by VB3 BID4U. The current bid is always listed in the currency of the country the vehicle is located in. A “Pre-Bid” is a bid placed during preliminary bidding, which takes place up to 1 hour before the Virtual “Live” Auction begins. Bids may be placed online or through computer terminals located in Copart locations.

Please Note: Any disputes in regards to the vehicle condition must be brought to the managers attention BEFORE the vehicle leaves Copart premises.  For all vehicles that are transported off of Copart premises the Member must understand and agree that s/he accepts the vehicle AS IS pursuant to Copart’s Member Terms and Conditions.

Visit our Common Terms page for more Copart terms and definitions.