Copart Fee Calculator
Calculate total Copart auction costs including buyer fees, internet bid fees, and location-specific charges
Vehicle & Buyer Information
Additional Services
Fee Breakdown
Complete Guide to Copart Auction Fees
What is Copart and How It Works
Copart is one of the world’s largest online vehicle auction platforms, specializing in salvage, clean title, and specialty vehicles. Founded in 1982, Copart operates over 200 locations across 11 countries, processing millions of vehicles annually for insurance companies, banks, finance companies, charities, and fleet operators.
The platform allows both public buyers and licensed dealers to bid on vehicles through online auctions. Each vehicle comes with detailed condition reports, multiple photos, and sometimes even video inspections to help buyers make informed decisions.
Breakdown of All Major Copart Fees
Buyer Fee (Tiered Structure)
- • $0 – $99: $25 fee
- • $100 – $499: $45 fee
- • $500 – $999: $95 fee
- • $1,000 – $1,999: $165 fee
- • $2,000 – $2,999: $225 fee
- • $3,000 – $4,999: $285 fee
- • $5,000 – $7,999: $375 fee
- • $8,000 – $9,999: $475 fee
- • $10,000+: $575 fee
Internet Bid Fee
$49 fee applies to all online bids placed through Copart’s website or mobile app.
Virtual Bidding Fee
$59 fee for participating in live virtual auctions with real-time bidding.
Gate Fee
$89 fee charged when picking up vehicles from Copart facilities.
Storage Fees
$25 per day after the free storage period (typically 3-5 business days).
Buyer Types and Fee Differences
Public Buyers
Individual consumers without dealer licenses pay standard fees and have access to most vehicle categories.
- • Standard buyer fee structure
- • Access to public auctions
- • Limited to certain vehicle types
- • Must provide valid ID and payment method
Licensed Dealers
Licensed automotive dealers often receive preferential treatment and access to dealer-only auctions.
- • Same fee structure as public buyers
- • Access to dealer-only auctions
- • Priority in certain sales
- • Enhanced bidding privileges
Location-Specific Fee Insights
While Copart’s basic fee structure remains consistent across locations, certain regional factors can affect total costs:
- • Transportation Costs: Vary significantly based on distance from auction site
- • State Taxes: Some states impose additional sales tax on auction purchases
- • Documentation Fees: Title transfer and registration costs vary by state
- • International Buyers: Additional export fees and documentation requirements
Example Calculations for Different Bid Amounts
Example 1: $500 Bid
- • Winning Bid: $500
- • Buyer Fee: $95
- • Internet Bid Fee: $49
- • Gate Fee: $89
- • Total Cost: $733
Example 2: $3,500 Bid
- • Winning Bid: $3,500
- • Buyer Fee: $285
- • Internet Bid Fee: $49
- • Gate Fee: $89
- • Total Cost: $3,923
Tips to Reduce Total Auction Costs
- • Set a Maximum Bid: Factor in all fees when determining your maximum bid amount
- • Pick Up Quickly: Avoid storage fees by arranging pickup within the free storage period
- • Consider Transportation: Factor in shipping costs when bidding on distant vehicles
- • Inspect Thoroughly: Use all available photos and reports to avoid surprises
- • Understand Return Policy: Copart sales are typically final with limited return options
Copart Bidding Terms Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Copart fees are fixed and non-negotiable. The fee structure is standardized across all locations and applies to all buyers equally.
The Internet Bid Fee applies to all online bids. You can only avoid it by attending live auctions in person, but this option is limited and not available for all sales.
Copart accepts cashier’s checks, wire transfers, and approved financing. Personal checks and credit cards are generally not accepted for vehicle purchases, though credit cards may be used for fees.
You typically have 3-5 business days of free storage after winning an auction. After that, storage fees of $25 per day apply. Some locations may have different policies.