Auction glossaryAs Is, Where Is: What It Means When You Buy at Auction
As is, where is means a lot is sold in its current condition, with any faults, at its current location. The buyer accepts it without warranties, is responsible for inspecting it before bidding, and must collect it or arrange transport from where it sits. It's the standard condition at most auctions.
What does as is, where is cover?
The phrase has two halves, and both matter.
- As is: no promise it works, is complete or is free of damage beyond what the listing says.
- Where is: you collect it from its location, or pay for shipping where the sale offers it.
- No returns because you changed your mind or it doesn't suit you.
What does as is mean in practice?
Say you win a $90 riding mower listed as untested. If it won't start at home, that's the risk you took. If it was listed as running and turns out to be missing its engine, that's a description problem, not an as-is one. That's why preview and inspection matter; see our guide to inspecting items before bidding.
Is there buyer protection on Auktia?
Items on Auktia are sold as is. If an item arrives materially different from its description, tell the seller (auction house) and Auktia within 7 days; the seller resolves it and Auktia helps. See buyer protection.
Questions people ask
Can I return an as-is auction item?
Generally no, unless the sale terms allow it or the item is materially different from its description.
Does where is mean I have to pick it up?
It means the item stays put until you collect it, by the remove-by date. If the sale ships, shipping costs extra.