Governments worldwide are going through digital transformations. Innovative technologies and online platforms are being used to create more agile, cost-effective, and user-focused operations. There is no doubt the advantages of going digital are taking shape across the board, particularly when it comes to selling surplus goods via e-commerce solutions.
“We’ve noticed an upswing in agencies shifting their surplus disposition to online marketplaces, both to fast-track the selling process and to recoup some of their financial losses during the global pandemic,” says Michael Price, Vice President, Revenue with GovDeals. “Through online auctions like our own, governments at all levels are turning to secure e-commerce platforms that allow for both responsible sales from a public health perspective and the sustainable disposition of items and equipment no longer required by their agencies.”
Ready to go digital with your surplus item sales? Consider the following advantages:
Sell what you want: On an e-commerce platform, there are virtually no limits to the types of surplus items an agency can list. For example, GovDeals is home to a broad range of goods: from office furniture to public works equipment, vehicles to real estate, electronics to building materials, and beyond. Moreover, their “as is, where is” surplus disposition program keeps an entire organization’s goods on the same page.
Budget-friendly: Municipalities are increasingly challenged to stretch every dollar of their budgets. Selling surplus online is a viable strategy for increasing revenue and reducing costs associated with maintenance, storage, and overall management of excess items.
Increased visibility: Online auctions have the potential to attract far more buyers than any in-person sale. Moreover, they are a more convenient and accessible option for buyers, who may have otherwise passed on a good deal due to their physical location.
Supporting the circular economy: The saying is true: “One person’s waste is another person’s treasure.” Rather than relegating unwanted furniture and office equipment to the landfill or scrap yard, agencies can use online auctions to find a new useful life for their excess supplies. Doing so reduces one’s environmental footprint and moves the needle regarding sustainability objectives.
Additionally, says Price, “with our service feature that provides the weight of products sold, agencies are instead listing bulk lots and keeping a running total of items that were diverted from becoming waste.”
Paperless benefits: Working through an online auction platform like GovDeals enables sellers to work in a paperless digital environment, complete with a full and secure payment collection program, virtual bills of sale, and a transparent audit trail. Going paperless expedites the sales process and keeps staff and buyers safe.
Reducing transportation and storage demands: The ability to sell “as is, where is” eliminates transportation and storage requirements. Rather than gathering everyone for in-person auctions or inspections when an item is out for tender, only the successful buyer needs to visit your site.
Greater seller control: With 24/7 access and a suite of auction options (e.g., timing, pictures, price, etc.), sellers have complete control when it comes to how they list their surplus. Also, all items remain in their possession, mitigating any risks associated with leaving them in the care of a third party.
Governments are unlocking greater efficiencies and cost savings by going digital. Learn more about the advantages of selling surplus online at GovDeals.ca.
