How Octane Works for Buyers
Discover how easy it is to bid on your dream car with Octane. Fair fees, a simple process, and secure completion.
Bidding in Steps
From creating an account to a successful handover: explore the full buying experience on Octane.
1. Create your account
Create a free account and complete your profile. To place bids, link a payment method (credit card or bank account).
2. Place bids
Once verified, you can start bidding on auctions. When you place a bid, we put a temporary bidding reservation ("hold") on your card so each bid is covered.
3. Confirm
Before your bid is final, we show a clear summary: your bid, buyer's fee, and total amount. You'll know exactly what you agree to before confirming.
Note: Any BPM (Dutch registration tax), VAT, and import/registration costs are the buyer's responsibility and stated in the auction description if applicable.
4. After the auction
If you are the highest bidder and the reserve is met, congratulations; you've won! When the auction ends, only the buyer's fee is charged and the rest of the hold is released immediately.
If you are outbid or the reserve is not met, the full hold is released and you pay nothing.
5. Completion
After closing, we connect you and the seller in a secure chat to arrange payment and delivery.
For escrow auctions, the purchase amount is held by an independent third party and released only after both parties confirm delivery.
After You Win
Two secure ways to complete your purchase:
Direct with Seller
Settlement and payment directly:
- Immediate access to the seller's contact details.
- Faster settlement without an intermediary account.
- Flexible arrangements for viewing and transport.
Escrow
An independent third party holds the funds securely until delivery:
- Your purchase amount is securely held.
- Funds are released only after both parties confirm delivery.
- Extra assurance during ownership transfer.
The seller chooses which completion method is used.
Costs & Assurances
Buyer's fee
3% of the winning bid, minimum €350 and maximum €3,600.
Bidding reservation
Temporary card hold when you bid; automatically released if you don't win.
Transparent process
No hidden costs, everything is clear and upfront.
Auction Rules
- Duration of the auction— Each auction typically runs for 7 to 14 days; allowing you to review, ask questions, and plan your bids without rush.
- Anti-sniping protection— If a bid is placed in the final 5 minutes, the timer resets to 5 minutes so everyone has another chance to bid.
- Bid increments (minimum raises)— To keep auctions organized and fair, fixed increments apply:
- • €100 for bids up to €10,000
- • €250 for bids from €10,000 to €49,999
- • €500 for bids from €50,000 to €99,999
- • €1,000 for bids of €100,000 and above
- Reserve price— The seller sets a minimum price. If this amount is reached, the car is guaranteed to go to the highest bidder.
- Bidding pre-authorization (hold)— €1,000 for bids up to €33,333; €3,600 for higher bids.
Why Buy with Octane?
The advantages that make Octane unique for car buyers
Unique selection
Exclusive cars from passionate owners that you won't find anywhere else.
Verified sellers
All sellers are verified for a safe and reliable experience.
Transparent process
No hidden costs, everything is clear and upfront.
Secure payment
Escrow option and protected payments for maximum peace of mind.
Ready to Bid?
Create your account and join the next auction. Find your dream car today.
Join the Octane community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about bidding on Octane
