Unluckiest guy in the world?
Last edit: May 11 2026 • 209 view
We’ve got a customer from Florida, Joe. I had to share his story. It would be a normal customer story… but there’s one crazy detail. Let’s break it down.
First, Joe is actually a smart buyer. He mostly bids on cars from insurance companies, which is the right move. On the lot page we show the seller when we have that info. So Joe only bids on lots from IAAI. There are dealers and private sellers there too, but overall it’s known for having more vehicles from insurance companies.
On one hand, that’s a plus. On the other hand, with IAAI the sale status is always “on approval”, which means the seller has a reserve price. With Copart, for example, many lots are “pure sale“, meaning if you’re the highest bidder, you will get the car.
But back to Joe. Some time ago I noticed one customer placing bids on several cars every single day. That’s not rare, but it got my attention. I started watching his activity, and I was shocked. Joe was winning auctions every day. Literally the highest bidder on almost every bid. So he had a 99% win rate… and not a single deal closed. Wait, what?! Yeah. Not once did the seller accept his bid!
Let me explain “on approval” again: if you’re the highest bidder, the seller can accept your bid, reject it, or send a counteroffer. When a seller sends a counteroffer, we get it and immediately reach out to the customer with options.
In Joe’s case? He won 81 auctions… and guess what – the sellers NEVER even sent a counteroffer! Not once. That’s insane!! I’ve seen a lot, but I’ve never seen anything like this.
Who wouldn’t quit after winning so many auctions and getting nothing? Most people would give up, and I’d totally get it. But not Joe. He just keeps going, keeps bidding, and keeps pushing toward his goal.
Joe, if you’re reading this – respect. You’re the most persistent guy on the planet.
And guys, if you didn’t win one or two auctions, don’t stress. Just remember Joe. Be like Joe – keep pushing, and you’ll get your dream car!
