How to Set Default Starting Bids in BidWrangler (Company, Auction, and Item Level)

BidWrangler now supports default starting bids at three levels — Company, Auction, and Item — so clerks no longer need to configure each item individually.

Previously, starting bids could only be set on individual items, requiring clerks to manually configure each one before an auction. This update allows default starting bids to be configured at the Company level (platform-wide), the Auction level (per event), or the Item level (per lot). Each more specific level overrides the broader one. This is especially useful for live auctions, where it saves clerks significant time.

The three levels follow a hierarchy: the most specific setting always wins.

Company Level — What is it and when should I use it?

The Company-level default sets a starting bid that applies across your entire Bid Wrangler platform. Configure it in your company settings under Bidding Configuration. Once set, it automatically becomes the default starting bid for all items in both timed and live auctions, unless overridden at a lower level. Use this to establish a baseline that reflects your organization's standard practices.

Auction Level — What is it and when should I use it?

The Auction-level default sets a starting bid for all items within a specific auction. Configure it in your auction settings under Bidding Configuration. This overrides the Company-level default for that auction only. Use this when a particular event requires a different starting bid than your platform-wide default.

Item Level — What is it and when should I use it?

Item-level starting bids work the same as before: you can set or change the starting bid on any individual item. This overrides both the Auction-level and Company-level defaults for that specific lot. Use this for items that need a unique starting bid that differs from the auction or company default.

When Bid Wrangler determines the starting bid for an item, it follows this order of precedence:

1. Item Level — highest priority; overrides all other settings

2. Auction Level — overrides Company level; applies to all items in the auction

3. Company Level — broadest default; applies platform-wide

Does this work for both timed and live auctions?
Yes. Default starting bids configured at the Company or Auction level apply to both timed and live auction formats in Bid Wrangler.

Can I override a Company-level default for just one auction?
Yes. Set a default starting bid at the Auction level in that auction's Bidding Configuration settings. It will override the Company-level default for that auction only, without affecting any other auctions.

Can I override the Auction-level default for just one item?
Yes. Edit the individual item and set its starting bid directly. That Item-level value will override both the Auction and Company defaults for that lot only.