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As the weather warms up, many business owners start thinking about clearing space, selling equipment they no longer use, and upgrading to newer machinery. If you’re in fabrication, construction, or light manufacturing, there’s no better way to do that than by participating in—or hosting—an auction. Whether it’s your first time bidding or you’ve been through the process before, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. At Backes Read More

Tags: auction, bidding, buying, guide, handbook, selling, tips

Celebrating the Auction Industry and Our Legacy of Trust At Backes Auctioneers, we believe in the power of auctions to transform businesses, streamline operations, and provide real value to sellers and buyers alike. As National Auctioneers Week (April 28 – May 3) approaches, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the auction industry and highlight what makes Backes Auctioneers a trusted name in equipment auctions across the Midwest. Whether you're a contractor, fabrication shop Read More

Tags: about us, auctioneers, history

For contractors, having the right equipment is essential to keeping projects on schedule and maintaining a competitive edge. But what happens when you have aging, underutilized, or surplus machinery taking up space? Rather than letting old equipment collect dust—or worse, continue to depreciate—smart contractors use auctions to free up capital for new investments. Here’s how selling through Backes Auctioneers can help you turn outdated equipment into cash and keep your business Read More

Tags: auction, construction, equipment, fabrication, new equipment, old equipment

When it’s time to sell your machine shop equipment, choosing the right auction format is key to maximizing your return. With Backes Auctioneers, you have two main options: online auctions or in-person auctions. Both have their advantages, but which one is the best fit for your equipment, timeline, and goals? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision. Online Auctions: Convenience and a Larger Buyer Pool Online auctions have become increasingly Read More

Tags: In-Person Auctions, machine shop, Online Auctions

If you’re thinking about closing or downsizing your machine shop, you’re likely wondering how to get the most value out of your equipment. Selling everything yourself can be time-consuming and stressful, especially when you’re dealing with large industrial machines. That’s where Backes Auctioneers comes in. With decades of experience in industrial and machine shop auctions, we make the process smooth, efficient, and profitable. Here are five key benefits of liquidating Read More

Tags: auction, backes, machine shop

As a heavy equipment owner, you understand the importance of protecting your valuable assets from damage and depreciation. Not only does proper maintenance and protection preserve the equipment's functionality, but it also maximizes its value when it's time to sell. At Backes Auctioneers, we've seen many heavy equipment owners make common mistakes that can significantly reduce the value of their equipment at auction. Today, we'll discuss the importance of protecting your heavy Read More

Tags: auction tips, fabrication, heavy equipment, heavy equipment auction, machine shop

As a fabrication equipment owner, selling your assets at auction can be a daunting task. With the right strategy and preparation, you can maximize your returns and avoid costly mistakes. At Backes Auctioneers, we've seen many sellers make common mistakes that can negatively impact their auction experience. So, let’s highlight the most common mistakes to avoid when selling fabrication equipment at auction, as well as provide tips on how to stay productive throughout the process. Mistake Read More

Tags: auction, Common Mistakes, Fabrication Equipment, machine shop, mistakes, tips

When it comes to material handling, forklifts are indispensable tools used across various industries. As you prepare to bid on heavy equipment at an auction, it’s essential to understand the different types of forklifts available and what to consider before making a purchase. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the various types of forklifts and what you need to know before placing your bid. 1. Counterbalance Forklifts Description: Counterbalance forklifts are the most common type Read More

Tags: Forklifts

Selling heavy equipment can be a daunting task, but choosing the right method can make all the difference. Auctions have become a popular and effective way to sell heavy machinery, offering numerous benefits over traditional sales methods. Here are five compelling reasons to consider selling your heavy equipment at auction, backed by insights from Backes Auctioneers: 1. Maximized Exposure Wider Audience Reach: Auctions attract a broad pool of potential buyers, including contractors, brokers, Read More

Tags: Selling at Auction, Selling Your Heavy Equipment

As a fabrication shop owner, you know that having the right equipment is crucial to producing high-quality products efficiently and effectively. At Backes Auctioneers, we understand the importance of having the necessary tools and machinery to get the job done. So, let’s cover the 7 essential pieces of equipment every fabrication shop needs to succeed and tips on how to manage and upgrade your equipment through auctions. 1. CNC Machining Center Firstly, a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Read More

Tags: Fabrication Equipment