Auctions
Copart vs IAAI: which auction is better for Georgian buyers
There are two big US auto auctions — Copart and IAAI. Both give access to thousands of cars daily. Which is better for Georgian buyers? We compare across seven factors.
1. Lot availability
Copart: ~175,000 active lots, 200+ US locations. IAAI: ~120,000 active lots, 175+ locations. Copart has more variety, especially in hybrids and luxury.
2. Buyer fees
On a $5,000 car: Copart ~$880, IAAI ~$915. On $10,000: ~$1,110 vs ~$1,145. Above $15,000 both charge 7.5%. Buyer fees are nearly identical — but IAAI adds a $20 title fee that Copart doesn't, so Copart is usually marginally cheaper overall.
3. Internet bid fee
Both scale with the bid amount. Copart: ~$49–$149 (live online), pre-bid a bit less. IAAI: ~$50–$160 (live), proxy slightly less.
4. Fixed fees
Copart: $95 gate + $15 environmental. IAAI: $95 service + $15 environmental + $20 title.
5. Title types
Same terminology on both. Avoid Parts Only / Non-Repairable — they can't be registered in Georgia.
6. US logistics
Copart locations are typically closer to ports → cheaper US inland transport. IAAI is often inland → $100–$300 more.
7. Photos
Copart: 12–20 photos per lot, sometimes video. IAAI: 8–15. A slight edge to Copart.
What Georgian buyers should focus on
- US inland transport cost
- Title type (always re-verify before payment)
- VIN history — use our VIN check
- Damage photo quality
Bottom line
Prices are similar. Copart wins for hybrids, luxury, and photo quality. IAAI wins for commercial vehicles. Fees are nearly identical — Copart is marginally cheaper. Real decisions come down to the specific lot and location, not the brand. Contact us — we work on both.