Auto-bids keep you in the lead by placing a bid for you whenever you’re outbid. When you’re outbid Trade Me will place the minimum allowable bid until you win the auction or your auto-bid is exceeded.

To place an auto-bid:

1. Enter the most you are prepared to pay in the bid box

2. Tick 'Auto-bid'

3. Click 'Set auto-bid'

4. Confirm your bid

5. You're done Trade Me will keep you in the lead until you win or your autobid is exceeded

You can increase an existing auto-bid by placing a higher value auto-bid. No additional bid will be placed if you lead the bidding. You cannot decrease the value of your auto-bid.

Frequently asked questions

Why has my auto-bid jumped to its maximum?
If your auto-bid is below or equal to the reserve, your maximum auto-bid will be placed.

If an existing auto-bid is greater than yours, your auto-bid may also jump to it's maximum, and be immediately outbid.

Why did my auto-bid jump straight to the reserve price?
If your auto-bid exceeds the reserve, a bid will be placed equal to the reserve. You will then lead the bidding until your auto-bid is exceeded.

Why did my auto-bid bid against itself?
If another member places a bid equal to your auto-bid, your maximum auto-bid will be placed. It will appear as two consecutive bids from you. Auto-bids have priority over normal bids of the same value as they were placed earlier.