Understanding USS Auto Auctions

Inside Japan’s Premier Vehicle Auction Network

USS Co., Ltd. operates the USS Auto Auction, a membership-based system designed to revitalize used car distribution in Japan. The name “USS” derives from Used Car System Solutions initials. Beyond its primary auto auction activities, the company buys, sells, and recycles used cars.

The Auto Auction Business:

USS Auto Auction plays a significant part in the fluid distribution of used cars. Operating 19 physical auction venues across the nation, USS holds auctions weekly. The company actively works to grow membership in each region, aspiring to be the leading auction venue nationwide. Their systems permit participants to bid remotely, offering accessibility and convenience.

Membership and Access:

Participation in the USS Auto Auction necessitates membership registration. The registration requirements are notably stringent. Japan’s auto auctions generally operate as B2B platforms, precluding direct involvement by the general public. Skyery Auto’s direct membership provides clients access without needing personal registration or intermediary agents.

Vehicles Available:

USS Auto Auction presents a wide assortment of vehicles from all over Japan. Listings include everything from compact ‘kei’ cars to rare classic models and high-value automobiles like Lamborghini and Ferraris. Vehicles span various ages, from older units to recent high-year models, catering to diverse buyer requirements.

Vehicle Condition Standards:

USS Auto Auction employs strict inspection protocols to provide accurate condition assessments. Certified USS inspectors evaluate each vehicle, assigning a grade based on a 10-point system. This evaluation considers numerous factors:

• Exterior: Assessment includes scratches, dents, rust, etc.
• Interior: Notes cover seat stains, tears, dashboard cracks, etc.
• Engine: Checks for unusual noises, oil leaks, etc.
• Repair History: Identifies frame repairs, part replacements, etc.
  A separate Interior & Exterior Condition Rating (Scale A to E) provides additional specifics concerning visible wear or damage.

The USS Auction Process:

USS Auto Auctions adheres to a structured procedure:

1. Vehicle Arrival (USS Responsibility): Auction vehicles must reach the venue by the morning preceding the auction day.
2. Inspection & Registration (USS Responsibility): USS inspectors assess each vehicle, assign a grade and record the results in the database for buyer review.
3. Previewing (Customer/Agent Responsibility): Before the auction day, buyers (or their agents like Skyery Auto) can review vehicle information via dedicated terminals or online. In-person inspection at the venue is also possible.
4. Bidding (Agent Responsibility): On auction day, participants access the venue and place bids using specialized terminals. Auctions proceed rapidly, categorized by vehicle type, with multiple vehicles (4 to 10) auctioned concurrently. A single-vehicle transaction is completed approximately every 20 seconds.
5. Winning Bid & Payment (Customer via Agent): Upon winning a bid, the buyer (facilitated by their agent, Skyery Auto) must finalize payment for the vehicle.

Reasons for USS Popularity:

• Extensive Vehicle Listings: USS presents an enormous variety of vehicles as Japan’s largest auction network.
• Proximity to Major Export Ports: Many USS auction sites are near key export ports, which helps minimize domestic transport costs and avoids substantial additional fees.