FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions – Webtron Online Auction
What are the benefits of Webtron online auctions?
Put simply, online auctions enable you to reach buyers irrespective of their geographic or personal limitations.
And by integrating Webtron software into your company website, you’ll be competing with the biggest auction firms around the world. Without the costly infrastructure.
Online auctions also allow you to:
• Attract a wider pool of motivated bidders
• Generate higher selling prices due to increased competition
• Add excitement and interest to your traditional live auctions
• Get your auction assets into a trusted well-oiled auction software ecosystem that has been optimised for speed.
Will online auctions help me achieve higher sale prices?
In almost every case, online auctions result in higher prices. And the reason is simple: more bidders, more bids!
What industries can benefit most from online auction technology?
Webtron adds value to businesses in the following industries:
• Collectables
• Automotive
• Agricultural
• Industrial Plant and machinery
• Livestock
• Marine
• General
• Digital Assets
We also service many businesses in the wholesale and retail sectors.
About Live Webcast Auctions
Do live online auctions replace traditional auctions?
Online auctions do not replace traditional auctions. They enhance them.
With a rich history all over the world, we understand that traditional live auctions are already an important sales strategy for your business. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. Adding an online channel will simply broaden your existing buyer market and encourage more bidders to compete on the day.
How do live Webcast Auctions work?
Live webcast auctions are streamed from our robust infrastructure located in various regions around the world. Large LCD screens and monitors can be used on location to relay and monitor all onsite and online bids. Your auctioneer will conduct the auction as usual – while receiving support from Webtron as required.
Do online bidders experience a technical delay?
We believe that delays must be kept to an absolute minimum – which is why we’ve spent so many years testing and refining our infrastructure and webcast technologies. We have been offering our service since 2007 so we are experienced experts in auction streaming. Bidders can bid from any device , any browser anywhere.
Our streaming platform is one of the fastest on the market. With a good working internet speed, any delay that might occur (if any) lasts no more than a third of a second. And that’s quick. In fact, it feels almost instantaneous. This means your online bidders are in no way disadvantaged when competing with onsite bidders.
About Timed Online Auctions
Are Timed Auctions just like eBay?
Although your customers will be bidding for your items ‘eBay style’, the auction is running from your company website. This means you have complete control over the auction and don’t need to compete for bidders with other brands.
Your Bidders
Is there a cost to online bidders?
Generally our clients choose to charge a buyer’s premium – but this is completely up to you and your company.
How do bidders register?
Bidders register on your website via the online auction portal. After they’ve registered, you receive a bidder request which you can either approve or reject. Webtron offer 5 different bidder verifications options you are free to choose from. Including the popular credit card verification and cutting edge AML biometrics.
How do my bidders log in?
Your bidders login from the auction portal on your website online auction page.
What do my bidders need to do to participate in an auction?
After bidders have been approved to bid at your online auction, they need to login via your website online auction page. Then once the auction starts, they can make bids simply clicking the ‘Bid’ button.
Online bidders will be able to view all onsite and online bids in real time on the bidder dashboard.
Software Buyer Questions
How is Webtron priced?
Webtron is priced on a custom quote basis rather than fixed public tiers, because the right plan depends on your auction volume, the features you need (webcast, timed, or both), and the level of white-label customisation you want. Book a demo and we’ll scope a plan that matches how you actually run auctions.
Are there setup, support or training fees on top of the subscription?
No setup, support or training fees and auction support is also included.
Migration – We’re already using another auction platform. Can you help us switch?
Yes – our team handles the migration process, including transferring your existing catalogue and bidder/user records so you’re not starting from zero. We work with you to plan the cutover so live auctions aren’t disrupted mid-transition.
Setup & Onboarding – How long does it take to get up and running?
Most auctioneers are live within 2 weeks. Setup includes integrating Webtron into your existing website, applying your branding (logos, colours, fonts), training and configuring your first auction formats.
Does Webtron integrate with our existing website, or do we need a new one?
Webtron’s white-label platform embeds directly into your existing website – you don’t need to rebuild it. If you do want a new site or a redesign, that’s available separately through the Website Design service.
What training is included when we get started?
New clients get onboarding training on the admin platform covering lot setup, auction formats, and bidder verification, plus access to Auction Platform Training resources for ongoing reference. And it is included free of charge.
Data Ownership – Who owns our auction, bidder, and catalogue data?
You do. All auction records, bidder data, and catalogue content you upload remain your property – Webtron doesn’t sell or share client data with third parties. You can request a full export of your data at any time. Our track record and reputation since 2007 is unmatched in the auction software industry.
Catalogue Imports – Can we bulk-import our existing lot catalogue instead of entering it manually?
Yes – catalogues can be imported in a CSV bulk import or entered lot-by-lot. Increasingly lots are being imported directly from mobile devices via Webtron AI Speed Lotting for photos, descriptions and video. Auctioneers report this has cut catalogue preparation time by 50% or more compared to the traditional lotting entry methods.
Xero Syncing – How does the Xero integration work?
Webtron can sync all your auction sales results directly with your Xero account, so invoices, payment gateway data, and sales tracking flow automatically from your auction results into your accounting system – no manual re-entry. Webtron also offer in system invoicing which is also a popular choice.
Client Support – How does that work?
Webtron offers 7 day a week support. Via email, online, 24/7 AI support and phone. Every live webcast auction is monitored by a Webtron support team member. Our clients consistently mention our high levels of support are the best in the industry.