eBay Auction Alerts: Catch Ending Auctions Before They Close

Some of the best prices on eBay are won at auction — often at odd hours, with fewer bidders watching. The trick is knowing when one is about to end.

Why auctions are a deal source

Auctions frequently close for less than the Buy It Now price on similar items, especially when they end late at night or mid-week when fewer buyers are paying attention. The catch is timing: you have to be there in the final minutes, and you cannot watch every listing yourself.

How ending-soon alerts work

Instead of refreshing eBay, you set an alert for the items you want and Madealert watches the auctions in your category. When one that matches is about to close, it notifies you in time to place a bid — no manual searching required.

Set up an auction alert

1. Create a free account and add an alert.
2. Set the buying format to auction so you only hear about biddable listings.
3. Add your keyword, price ceiling, and condition.
4. Turn on push so you get the heads-up while there is still time to bid.

Bid smart

• Decide your maximum bid in advance and stick to it.
• Factor shipping into your ceiling — the alert can account for the total cost.
• Be ready when the alert lands; the last minutes decide most auctions.

Start free with 5 alerts. Also useful: catching newly-listed items the moment they post.