5 top tips to get the most out of Simulcast
The covid-19 pandemic has challenged all industries to find new ways of working and automotive is no different. From dealerships re-opening with social distancing measures in place, to manufacturers implementing changes to their production lines, we’ve all had to adapt to a ‘new normal’.
In the remarketing world, physical auctions remain closed to protect the health and safety of team members and employees. As a result, buyers looking for fresh stock are required to utilise online channels, which for Manheim customers means using Simulcast, our award-winning online auction platform.
Simulcast has been around for many years now but for some customers this will be their first time using the platform. If you fall into that camp or just want to brush up on your knowledge, here are our top tips to get the most of out of buying online:
1. View multiple auctions at once
Perhaps the biggest benefit to buying online is that you can take part in multiple auctions at once, all from the comfort of your home or office. Gone are the days where you would need to prioritise which auction to attend, now you can bid on all the vehicles you want. In normal times, Simulcast allows you to view a live video stream of all the auctions you’re taking part in, but even in today’s world where auction halls are closed you can hear a live auctioneer. Make sure to click the ‘Make Primary’ button so you can see more detailed information for the lot you’re currently following.
2. Dive into the data
Just because you’re not in the auction hall with our detailed catalogue in hand, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on key vehicle information that could decide whether a vehicle is worth a bid or not. The ‘Current Lot’ section will display all vehicle information, a NAMA grade, service history, inspection report and pricing information so you can make a fully informed decision on the vehicle. If you want to get ahead of the game, simply click the ‘All Lots’ tab to view information on upcoming vehicles in the sale.
3. Ask the auctioneer a question
All of our online auctions feature an auctioneer so we can replicate the buzz of a real physical auction through the computer screen. But did you know you can also speak to them directly through Simulcast? With instant message you can send messages to the auctioneer and they can respond verbally. You only get 100 characters though so make sure your message is clear and concise, and that you have the audio turned on to hear their response!
4. Get to know the vehicle before bidding
The phrase ‘kicking the tyres’ is something any auction veteran will have heard countless times over the years, but it’s true that a close inspection of a vehicle can often determine a potential buyer’s opinion of a vehicle. There are obvious challenges when it comes to buying online but we’ve made it simple as possible to do the same through Simulcast. For every vehicle, we provide detailed imagery that highlights any damage, with further detailed information provided on the inspection report. Plus, on applicable vehicles our SureCheck and CheckPoint products will highlight any mechanical faults, MOT recorded mileage discrepancies and previous usage history. All this information is available clearly through Simulcast.
Bonus tip We know the big green bid button looks tempting to click, but please make sure you only press it if you mean to bid! Reports of pets walking across the screen and bidding, and even a baby’s dummy falling and pressing the bid button are more common that you’d expect.
5. Download the app
Simulcast’s purpose is to make sourcing stock as easy and hassle-free as possible, so what do you do if you’re on the go and can’t access your computer? It’s simple, download the Simulcast app which is available on all Apple and Android devices. The app enables you to source stock from anywhere you are, so you never have to miss out on a vehicle again. It’s a must have tool for any serious buyer!
Bonus tip We know the big green bid button looks tempting to click, but please make sure you only press it if you mean to bid! Reports of pets walking across the screen and bidding, and even a baby’s dummy falling and pressing the bid button are more common that you’d expect.
