Policies & Procedures
Dealer-Focused Wholesale & Public Auction Operations · Lufkin, Texas
Contents
- Introduction and Purpose
- Definitions and Key Terms
- Arbitration Policy
- AS-IS and AS-IS/NO ARB Policies
- Selling Light System
- Post-Sale Inspection (PSI) Policy
- Payment and Title Policies
- Admittance and Conduct Rules
- Announcements and Seller Obligations
- Additional Policies (Parts, Chips, etc.)
- Fees and Charges (Summary)
- Contact Information and Resources
- Disclaimer and Legal Notes
Introduction and Purpose
Greater Lufkin Auto Auction (GLAA) is committed to providing a fair, transparent, and efficient marketplace for wholesale and public vehicle transactions in East Texas. These Policies and Procedures establish clear guidelines for buyers, sellers, and staff to ensure smooth operations, protect all parties, and maintain the highest standards of integrity.
GLAA operates weekly Thursday sales (with online simulcast), dealer test drives, trade-ins, and is expanding into public/retail sales, boats, RVs, heavy equipment, and related services. We also manage associated Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) and repo/recovery operations under TDLR licensing.
These policies are designed to align with National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) standards while incorporating Texas-specific requirements. In any conflict between this document and NAAA rules, GLAA policies shall supersede unless otherwise noted. All participants are expected to familiarize themselves with these rules.
Definitions and Key Terms
- Arbitration
- A formal process to resolve disputes between buyer and seller regarding vehicle condition or title issues, following NAAA guidelines with GLAA-specific rules.
- AS-IS
- Vehicles sold without warranty or guarantee beyond specific announced conditions or title issues. The buyer assumes all the risk.
- AS-IS/NO ARB
- Vehicles ($3,000 or LESS) with limited or no arbitration rights except for unannounced title brands or non-negotiable titles.
- Green Light
- Seller guarantee against single mechanical defects costing more than a threshold ($1,000) to repair.
- Yellow Light
- Drivetrain/4x4 guarantee, often sale-day only; buyer must inspect prior to deadline.
- Red Light / AS-IS
- Vehicles sold AS IS. NO WARRANTY.
- PSI (Post-Sale Inspection)
- Optional buyer-paid inspection providing a limited guarantee period (e.g., 7 or 14 days) on inspected components.
- NAAA
- National Auto Auction Association — industry standard guidelines for arbitration and operations.
Arbitration Policy
GLAA follows the most recent NAAA Rules of Arbitration. If any policy in this document conflicts with NAAA, GLAA policy supersedes. Arbitration provides a structured way to resolve legitimate disputes while protecting the integrity of the sale process.
3.1 General Arbitration Rules
- Sale day (typically Thursday) is Day 1 for all arbitration timelines.
- Online purchases without a purchased PSI are considered “AS-IS.”
- All selling announcements must be made by the auctioneer. Seller representations must go through the auctioneer.
- It is the Seller’s obligation to fairly represent the vehicle and correct auctioneer errors. It is the Purchaser’s obligation to watch lights and listen to announced conditions.
- Finality: No future arbitration permitted except as allowed by current NAAA Policy.
- Visible defects are not subject to arbitration.
- Any arbitrated vehicle sale becomes an “AS-IS” transaction.
3.2 Non-Arbitrable Items
The following are NOT arbitrable (exceptions may apply per NAAA or specific GLAA announcement):
- Ford 5.4L engines, cold start-up engine noise and ticks
- All CVT transmissions
- Check Engine lights (must be mechanically specific)
- Aftermarket tuned PCM, ECM, TCM changed from OEM specs
- Inherent issues, recalls, or issues disclosed by TSBs
- Slow dripping oil leaks
- Diesel Engines
- Any mechanical issues equal to or less than $1,000 at wholesale shop standards.
3.3 Required Announcements (Regardless of Light, except AS-IS/NO ARB)
Sellers and auctioneers must announce (per NAAA guidelines):
- Odometer discrepancies, frame damage, flood damage, cracked blocks
- Diesels and diesel conversions
- Paint and/or body work on three or more panels on current calendar year and newer models
- Salvage / Rebuilt Salvage / Rebuilt vehicles (must announce on ALL vehicles regardless of light)
- Flood vehicles (must announce on ALL vehicles regardless of light)
- Municipal, Livery, Police, and Recovered Theft vehicles
- Vehicles born without air-conditioning
- Vehicles with missing or inoperable airbags
- Vehicles not conforming to US DOT, EPA, or similar state regulations
3.4 Return of Vehicle After Arbitration
If a vehicle is returned to the seller due to failure to announce a required disclosure, the SELLER shall pay seller fees and transportation costs to the buyer’s location. The buyer must notify GLAA by email within 24 hours in advance of return. The vehicle must be returned in the same or better condition with no more than 200 miles per month since purchase (mileage not considered in title arbitrations).
AS-IS and AS-IS/NO ARB Policies
4.1 AS-IS Policy
Vehicles sold AS-IS are not subject to arbitration except for:
- Unannounced salvage / salvage rebuilt / flood issues
- Odometer discrepancies (note: 2011 and newer vehicles are generally exempt from mileage announcements until 20 years old, unless discrepancy is known or apparent)
- Frame issues reported within 7 days (buyer must return vehicle to auction for verification; buyer arranges transport)
4.2 AS-IS/NO ARB Policy
Any vehicle selling for $3,000 or less is considered AS-IS/NO ARB. Arbitration is limited to title issues such as unannounced title brand or inability to produce a negotiable title. Motorcycles, boats, trailers, RVs, modified vehicles, off-road vehicles, and kit cars are also AS-IS/NO ARB.
Vehicles sold AS-IS or AS-IS/NO ARB are sold in their existing condition, with all faults, and without modification or warranty beyond announced conditions. Refer to current NAAA Arbitration Policy Guidelines for details.
Selling Light System
GLAA uses a color-coded light system to communicate vehicle condition guarantees at the time of sale. Buyers must pay attention to the light and any announced conditions.
Green Light — Ride & Drive
Seller guarantees the vehicle against any single mechanical defect (except non-arbitrable items listed above) costing more than approximately $1,000 to repair at wholesale rates. Guarantee subject to PSI terms if purchased.
Green/Yellow Light
Same as Green Light but with pre-announced declarations or cautions that are not subject to arbitration. The buyer should review announcements carefully.
Yellow Light — Drivetrain / 4x4
Vehicle sold with drivetrain/4x4 guarantee, on sale-day only. The buyer must inspect and test drive prior to 5:30 PM on sale day or two hours after the sale. Items disclosed under Yellow caution are not inspected or guaranteed under PSI.
Red Light / AS-IS
The following must be announced and sold AS-IS: Salvage vehicles, Police vehicles, Livery vehicles, Municipal vehicles, and others with known significant issues. Buyer purchases in existing condition.
AS-IS/NO ARB Categories
Vehicles $3,000 or less, motorcycles, boats, trailers, recreational vehicles, modified vehicles, off-road vehicles, and kit cars are automatically AS-IS/NO ARB with limited arbitration rights.
Post-Sale Inspection (PSI) Policy
GLAA offers optional Post-Sale Inspections (PSI) as a value-added service. The PSI is a basic mechanical, structural, and flood inspection following the current NAAA Arbitration Policy. It is conducted promptly (within 24–48 hours after purchase; Sale Day = Day 1).
6.1 PSI Scope and Limitations
- Limited to items covered under the light the vehicle was sold under.
- A GLAA technician drives the inspected vehicles approximately 10 miles on a designated route.
- Due to vehicle complexity, GLAA does not guarantee issues outside the normal scope of the PSI.
- Buyer pays PSI fee regardless of pass or fail.
- PSI is NON-TRANSFERABLE and VOID if the vehicle is resold during the guarantee period.
6.2 PSI Guarantee
Guarantee on mechanical to vehicles less than 140,000 miles and 10 years old or less (voided in the event of collision or damage due to transportation). Electrical only covers vehicles up to 4 years old.
Inspected components that pass PSI criteria come with a 7-day guarantee (depending on PSI purchased). If a covered defect is found within the period and meets NAAA thresholds, GLAA may remediate at wholesale repair costs or reimburse reasonable documented expenses (at GLAA’s discretion, excluding profit, commissions, and detail charges). The vehicle must have less than 200 miles accumulated since sale odometer reading.
Auction guarantees against “visible” frame, cross member damage, aprons, upper reinforcement rail damage or replaced (unibody). Damage to roof support, pillars, rocker panel damaged, repaired or replaced (unibody). Floor panels torn, perforated or replaced. Frame or unibody altered.
Repairs
Any repairs under Post Sale Guarantee must be approved by Auction. GLAA will pay up to $3,000, subject to limitations and approval. Single item defects less than $1,000 are deemed minor and not subject to arbitration.
6.3 PSI Eligibility
- Typically available for Green and Green/Yellow light vehicles under mileage thresholds (e.g., <100,000 miles).
- Yellow light vehicles may have limited eligibility; check with staff.
- Exclusions may apply for certain high-end, exotic, or modified vehicles.
Excluded from PSI
6.4 Online PSI & Fee Schedule
Online Courtesy Drive
Opinion ONLY (no guarantee). The vehicle must be purchased online and does not qualify for a regular PSI. Sold with GREEN LIGHT. Buyer will be charged $50 for vehicles that fail.
Regular PSI’s
10 years old or LESS. Any mileage. 7 days regardless of when picked up, or 150 miles — whichever comes first.
15 years old or less and under 150,000 miles. 2 days regardless of when picked up, or 100 miles — whichever comes first.
10 years old or less, under 140,000 miles. 7 days regardless of when picked up, or 150 miles — whichever comes first.
10 years old or less, under 140,000 miles. 7 days regardless of when picked up, or 150 miles — whichever comes first.
Payment and Title Policies
7.1 Payment to Sellers
Proceeds of sale will not be paid to the Seller until a clean and negotiable title has been presented to GLAA. Payments are not made on Sale Day. In case of later-discovered title issues, the Seller is responsible for clearing the issue or returning funds to the Buyer.
7.2 Late Title Policy
If title is not received within 30 calendar days, a late title fee (e.g., $150) will be assessed. If the sale is reversed due to title issues, Seller is responsible for the Sale fee (not late or arb fees). If the title is at the auction or tracking shows it is en route, the sale is FINAL and the vehicle may not be returned. GLAA may assist with lost titles for a fee but is not responsible for titles lost in transit.
7.3 Window Information and Reports
Mileage and other information printed on vehicle windows or in reports (including AutoCheck/Carfax run as a courtesy) is for dealer convenience only. It is not guaranteed complete or accurate and is not subject to arbitration. GLAA is not responsible for missed items.
7.4 Payment Methods (Buyer)
Accepted forms typically include cash, cashier’s check, business check, CASHAPP, Zelle, or approved flooring/line of credit. Specific payment deadlines (by 5:00 PM on the following sale day) apply; late payment may incur fees ($100 per vehicle per week late). Check with the front office for current details and any NSF policies.
Admittance and Conduct Rules
GLAA is primarily a dealer-only auction environment, though we are expanding public/retail access on designated days. All participants must follow these rules for safety and professionalism:
- No retail customers on dealer-only sale days or in restricted areas without authorization.
- No one under 18 years of age is permitted in the lane area or active auction zones.
- Drivers are not permitted onto the auction lot or in auction lanes during active auction proceedings.
- All buyers and sellers must register properly, provide required identification, and comply with dealer verification processes.
- Professional conduct is expected at all times. Disruptive behavior, fraud attempts, or violations may result in removal, suspension, or permanent ban.
- Vehicles must display current license plates as required (including “Tow Truck” wording where applicable for permitted vehicles).
Announcements and Seller Obligations
Accurate and complete announcements are critical to fair auctions. Sellers must provide all known material information to the auctioneer prior to sale. Auctioneers make all announcements. Sellers must correct any errors promptly.
Buyers are responsible for listening to announcements and observing the selling light. Failure to do so does not create grounds for later claims.
Additional Policies
10.1 Parts Shortage / Backordered Parts
In cases of non-repairable issues or repairs that cannot be completed within 30 days due to parts delays/shortages, Sellers may be required to take back the unit.
10.2 Chip Shortage / Option Functionality
Due to ongoing supply chain challenges, stated options on certain late-model vehicles may not be fully operable because of missing or substituted OEM chips. Lack of functionality due to chip issues will not be subject to arbitration (per NAAA Position Statement).
10.3 Frame Checks and Other Services
Optional services such as frame checks, condition reports, and pre-certification inspections are available for a fee. Details and pricing are available at the front office or on published fee schedules.
Fees and Charges
GLAA publishes current buyer and seller fees separately (available at the front office, on our website, or upon request). Typical categories include:
Contact Information and Resources
Greater Lufkin Auto Auction
- Address
- 2109 N. John Redditt Drive, Lufkin, TX 75904
- Phone
- 936-632-4290
- greaterlufkinautoauction@gmail.com
- Website
- greaterlufkinaa.com
- Schedule
- Weekly Thursday sales at 5:30 PM (with online simulcast and stockwave via Marché). Public sale days: the second Thursday of every month.
For arbitration requests, title questions, or policy clarifications, contact the front office or designated staff promptly. GLAA staff are available to assist registered dealers and participants.
Disclaimer and Legal Notes
These Policies and Procedures are provided for guidance and are subject to change without prior notice. GLAA reserves the right to interpret and apply these rules in the best interest of fair and efficient operations.
All participants are responsible for complying with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to Texas Occupations Code (TDLR regulations for towing/VSF/auctions), TxDMV requirements, sales tax collection/remittance, and title transfer rules.
GLAA follows NAAA arbitration standards with the specific enhancements and limitations noted herein. In the event of conflict, this document and GLAA management decisions shall control.
This document does not constitute legal advice. Consult qualified legal counsel and regulatory authorities for specific compliance questions. GLAA, its owners, and staff are not liable for decisions made based on this summary.
By participating in GLAA auctions or services, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Policies and Procedures.
Greater Lufkin Auto Auction · Driving Excellence in East Texas
Confidential — For Internal and Registered Dealer Use Only · Version 1.0 — July 2026
