Bid increments, timing & anti-snipe extensions
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Auctions stay fair by enforcing a predictable minimum next bid. Optional anti-sniping extensions can apply to timed catalogue lots so last-second bids do not end the sale instantly.
Minimum bid increment
Each auction stores a minimum bid increment (commonly defaulted on the seller form). The next accepted bid must be at least the greater of the starting price or current high bid, plus that increment. If your bid is too low, the API returns an error naming the minimum allowed amount.
Bid timing & delays
You can submit bids whenever the auction is active and before the displayed end time. Rapid bidding may hit protective rate limits—if that happens, wait a few seconds before retrying.
Anti-sniping extensions (catalogue timed lots)
For eligible catalogue auctions, if a bid arrives very close to the scheduled end, the platform may extend the end time by a short window so other bidders can respond. Extensions can repeat; catalogue configuration and environment controls determine whether this behaviour is active.
Fees & buyer premiums
Platform fees, commissions, or buyer premiums—if applicable to your transaction—are described in the Terms of Use and related checkout flows. Listing pages focus on item price; always review totals before confirming payment.