Go to the federal government's auction central

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is basically the business arm of the federal government, and is responsible for auctioning off all excess and surplus federal assets.

I recommend: GSAauctions.gov is the single centralized government site for auctions of government surplus, seized and forfeited property. GSA has gone to an "all electronic" system that centers on this site. Property ranges from commonplace items like office equipment, to hard to find items like heavy machinery, airplanes, vessels and much more. Visit often to see the constantly-changing list of items for bid.

Register to take part in auctions

It's one of the simplest government registration procedures you'll encounter as a small business owner.

I recommend: The confidential registration process is open to both individuals and businesses, and requires a valid credit card. The way you register will determine how your information is displayed on your paperwork.

Browse the complete online catalog of items for sale

Thousands of items may be available on any given day.

I recommend: You can browse all auctions from the GSA Auctions homepage. Click on any of the categories to get a listing of the items available in that category, broken down by state. While browsing is open to anyone, registration and login are required to bid on items.

Get your auction questions answered

You'll likely have questions about the registration and bidding process.

I recommend: Click on FAQs at the top of the GSA Auctions homepage for a good list of frequently asked questions.

Discover helpful pricing information

Before you bid on items – especially big-ticket items such as vehicles, boats or even aircraft – check online pricing guides.

I recommend: These online pricing guides can help: Edmunds, Aircraft Blue Book, iBoats, Kelly Blue Book, NADA, Hemmings, Used Boat Price Guide and Carfax Vehicle History Reports.

Check for non-Internet sales, too

GSA has a special site for types of sales that include: live auction, fixed price, drop-by, negotiated and sealed bid.

I recommend: Select your geographic location for scheduled sales in your area.