How to catalog an auction the right way

A good catalog sells lots. Clear photos, honest descriptions and searchable titles bring more bidders and higher prices. Here's a simple, proven way to catalog any auction, and how to do it much faster.

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1. Plan your lot numbers

Decide where numbering starts and keep one item or group per lot. With Auction Studio, lot numbers are assigned automatically, and you can drag lots into a new order at any time without breaking photo names.

2. Take photos that sell

Use plain backgrounds and good light. Shoot the whole item first, then details, marks, labels and any damage.
Take enough photos to answer bidders' questions before they ask.
Name photos by lot number so they import into the right lot. Auction Studio does this as you shoot.

3. Write searchable titles

Lead with what the item is, then brand, model, material, size or era: "Brass mantel clock, 8-day movement" beats "Nice old clock". Keep within your platform's title limit. Auction Studio's AI writes the title from your photos and respects the limit.

4. Describe honestly, including condition

Describe what bidders can't see: measurements, function, markings and flaws. Condition tags such as New, Used, Working or Broken make catalogs consistent and help you avoid disputes.

5. Export for your platform

Export the catalog as a CSV with photos named to match, in the format your software expects, whether that's AuctionFlex 360 for HiBid, Proxibid's Bulk Loader, BidWrangler, K-BID or another platform.

The fastest way to do all five

Auction Studio puts every step on your phone: photograph, let AI write, tap condition, next lot. Teams can catalog together, and the catalog file is ready the moment the last lot is shot.

Questions

How long does it take to catalog an auction?

By hand, often several minutes per lot for photos, typing and file renaming. With AI writing titles and descriptions and automatic photo naming, many lots take under a minute.

How many photos should each lot have?

Enough to show the whole item, close-ups of marks and labels, and any damage. Auction Studio lets you add as many as you need.

What makes a good auction title?

Say what it is first, then the details bidders search for, like brand, model, material and size, within your platform's character limit.

Catalog your next sale faster

Free for 25 lots every month. No card needed. Works on any phone or computer.

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