How It Works
The U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Botswana, located in Gaborone, is selling surplus movable property (SMP) through an online auction.
Each auction is active for a specified period, with clearly stated start and end dates on the information panel of the web application. You may submit bids on listed items during this period.
By participating in the auction, you agree to purchase item(s) “as is, where is”. This means:
- Items are sold in their current condition and location – the Embassy does not pay for shipping.
- No warranties, guarantees, refunds, or exchanges apply.
The maximum number of bids per item is stated in the description for each item. You may increase your bids only in Botswana Pula (BWP). You are responsible for monitoring your bids during the auction and responding to any price increases.
If you win an auction, you will receive an email notification.
Sale Terms and Conditions
* By participating in the auction, you acknowledge that you agree to purchase all items “as is, where is”, with no warranties, refunds, or exchanges.
* All sales are final. Returns are not permitted.
* Buyers must arrange their own transport or shipping and must pay all applicable taxes, levies, and customs duties.
* Winning bidders who fail or refuse to pay for items within ten (10) business days will be barred from participating in future auctions.
* A receipt will be issued once the U.S. Embassy cashier confirms payment.
* The U.S. Government reserves the right to reject any bid that is not considered commensurate with the value of the property,. or if there are technical issues during the auction.
* In the event of a dispute over a bid amount, item, or item number, the U.S. Government reserves the right to re-offer the property.
* For vehicles: Release of vehicles to winning bidders will occur only after full payment of the winning bid and payment of all applicable duties and taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can participate in the auction?
Any interested buyer who can legally purchase and, if applicable, export property from Botswana and who agrees to comply with all auction terms, payment requirements, and pick-up procedures may participate.
2. How do I register for the auction?
You must create an account on https://online-auction.state.gov and follow the instructions on the site. Any specific identification or documentation requirements will be listed there.
3. How do I place a bid?
Log in to auction.state.gov, select the item you are interested in, enter your bid amount in Botswana Pula (BWP), and confirm your bid. The system will show whether your bid has been accepted.
4. Is there a minimum bid or bid increment?
Yes. Each item listing shows the starting price and the minimum bid increment. You must increase your bid by at least the stated increment.
5. How many times can I bid on one item?
Each item listing shows the maximum number of bids allowed per bidder for that item. After you reach that limit, you cannot submit additional bids on that item.
6. Can I change or cancel a bid after submitting it?
No. Once you submit a bid, it is final and cannot be changed or canceled. Please review your bid carefully before confirming.
7. How will I know if I won an item?
If you are the highest bidder when the auction closes, you will receive an email notification at the address associated with your account.
8. What does “as is, where is” mean?
It means items are sold in their current condition and at their current location, with no warranties, guarantees, refunds, or exchanges. You accept full responsibility for the condition of the items once you purchase them.
9. Can I inspect the items before bidding?
No in-person inspections are offered. Prospective buyers must make their decision based solely on the photographs and descriptions provided in the online listing.
10. How do I pay for the items I win?
You must pay via ETF by following the instructions in your winning notification email. You are responsible for any bank or transaction charges.
11. How long do I have to pay after winning?
You must pay in full within five (5) business days of the winning notification. If you do not pay within this period, the U.S. Embassy may cancel the sale and bar you from future auctions.
12. What happens if I do not pay?
If you fail to pay within five (five) business days, your award may be canceled, the item may be re-offered, and you may be prohibited from participating in future auctions.
13. What proof of payment do I need to collect my items?
You must present:
Items will not be released without the required documentation.
14. Who is responsible for transport, taxes, and customs?
The buyer is fully responsible for:
15. When and where do I pick up my items?
Pick-up takes place at a designated location noted in your notification. Pick-up hours are:
Monday–Thursday: 10:00-12:00
Friday: 09:00–11:00
You must collect your items within the period and during the hours specified in your notification.
16. What happens if I do not pick up my items on time?
If you do not remove your items within the allowed time, they may be considered abandoned and disposed of. No refunds will be issued for abandoned items.
17. Are there special rules for vehicles?
Yes. Vehicles will be released to winning bidders only after:
The buyer is responsible for registration, licensing, and any other legal requirements related to vehicle ownership and use.
18. Can the U.S. Government reject my bid?
Yes. The U.S. Government may reject any bid that is not considered commensurate with the value of the property and may re-offer items in the event of disputes or other issues.
19. Can I get a refund or exchange if I am not satisfied with the item?
No. All sales are final. No refunds, returns, or exchanges are allowed.
To retrieve your items, you must present:
- The original PAY.GOV payment receipt; and
- Any other required documents indicated in the auction instructions.
Items will not be released without proof of payment and all required documentation.
After successful confirmation of payment, embassy staff will move your items outside the building. At that point:
1) You become the legal owner of the merchandise; and
2) You assume full responsibility for handling, loading, and removal of the items from U.S. Embassy property in a timely manner.
If items are not removed within the time specified in the auction instructions, they may be considered abandoned and disposed of in accordance with U.S. Government procedures. No refunds will be issued for abandoned items.
