Iowa Government Surplus Auctions

active auctions…

Iowa hosts regular government surplus auctions across multiple federal agencies and platforms. The state's agricultural economy means farm equipment, vehicles, and machinery frequently appear in auctions, while installations like the Rock Island Arsenal in the Quad Cities region also contribute military and industrial surplus. You can find vehicles and electronics through aggregated listings on BidProwl, which pulls from GSA auctions, GovPlanet, GovDeals, PublicSurplus, and Municibid. Most auctions operate online with pickup or delivery options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What federal agencies and facilities conduct auctions in Iowa?

Iowa auctions come from several federal sources. The GSA (General Services Administration) manages federal property sales nationwide, including Iowa locations. The Rock Island Arsenal, located just across the state border in Illinois but serving the region, auctions military surplus. The IRS conducts auctions of seized property, the US Marshals Service sells confiscated assets, and DLA (Defense Logistics Agency) handles Department of Defense surplus. Additionally, state and local government agencies use platforms like GovDeals, PublicSurplus, and Municibid to sell their own surplus equipment and vehicles.

What types of items are commonly available in Iowa government auctions?

The most popular categories reflect Iowa's economy and government operations. Farm equipment, tractors, and agricultural machinery appear regularly due to the state's farming heritage. Vehicles including trucks, sedans, and heavy equipment are consistent offerings. You'll also find office furniture, computers and IT equipment, tools, construction materials, and industrial machinery from closed facilities or agency surpluses. Seasonal variation exists, with more equipment sales in spring and fall as agencies conduct year-end inventory cleanups.

How do I bid on state and local government surplus in Iowa?

Iowa counties and municipalities use platforms like Municibid, PublicSurplus, and GovDeals to auction their surplus assets. Each platform operates independently with its own registration and bidding process, though BidProwl aggregates listings from all of them so you can see Iowa auctions in one place. State agencies typically use their own websites or partner platforms. You'll need to register on the specific auction platform where an item is listed, review the item details and pickup/delivery terms, and submit your bid before the auction closes. Most auctions require payment within a set timeframe after winning, typically 5-10 business days.