Consignment Items | Charity Fundraising     |     31 July 2024

How to Use Consignment Auction Items in Your Fundraising Strategy (50+ Item Ideas)

Strengthen your fundraising with consignment auction items

19 minute read

Fundraising events are evolving, and a key driver behind this shift is the increased use of consignment auction items. Organizations are turning to consignment as a strategic way to strengthen their fundraising events without the risk and upfront costs traditionally associated with acquiring high-value auction items. This approach streamlines the process and injects a fresh dynamic into your fundraising efforts. 

What are consignment auction items?

Consignment auction items are products or experiences provided to nonprofit organizations for fundraising purposes without immediate cost. These items are sold at auction, and only after a sale is made does the organization pay a predetermined price to the consignment company. This arrangement allows nonprofits to offer more enticing auction items—like luxury travel packages or rare memorabilia—that might otherwise be out of reach.

How consignment works for fundraising

The process is straightforward and designed to minimize hassle for the organizing team. It starts with selecting items from a catalog provided by the consignment company. These items are listed in the event's auction catalog, often accompanied by attractive descriptions and images. 

If an item sells, the organization pays the consignment company a pre-agreed price and retains any additional funds raised over that amount. If the item doesn't sell, it simply returns to the consignment company without any cost to the charity.

For example, you might decide that a two-night stay in a beach-front resort would be popular for your audience. Instead of prepaying for this trip and hoping to get your money back, you find a consignment company that offers this option for $999. You put this relaxing experience in your auction catalog. If no one bids on the experience, you don’t owe the consignment company any money. If it sells, you pay the consignment company the $999 and keep whatever is leftover. 

Benefits of using consignment items

Nonprofit organizations find that using charity auction items on consignment in their fundraising events has many benefits. 

Cost-effective and risk-free

The primary appeal of consignment items lies in their cost-effectiveness. Charities can feature high-quality, desirable auction items without the initial investment. This risk-free approach means that if an item doesn't sell, there's no financial loss involved, allowing organizations to aim high without financial fears.

Potential for higher earnings

Offering more attractive, high-value items can help increase bidding activity. When bidders see unique or luxury items, such as a vacation to an exotic destination or a signed piece of memorabilia from a celebrity, they're more likely to engage and bid beyond the item's cost to the nonprofit. This strategy raises more funds and can turn a standard fundraising event into a memorable occasion.

Engages a wider audience

Consignment items have the power to draw a broader audience. The allure of unique and high-value items captures the attention of those who might not attend typical fundraisers. For example, a travel package to the Maldives can attract adventure-seekers, while signed memorabilia from a renowned artist might draw pop culture enthusiasts. This diversity expands the fundraiser's reach and, by extension, its potential success.

Access to uncommon items

Many small—to medium-sized organizations rely on local donations for auction items, limiting the variety and appeal of available options. Consignment allows these organizations to transcend their usual boundaries, offering items that local businesses might be unable to provide. This spices up the auction catalog but also increases the perceived value and professionalism of the event.

With consignment, charities are no longer limited by what they can afford to buy upfront but are empowered to dream big and raise more, all while maintaining a budget-friendly approach.

Planning your consignment auction

Planning an auction is a lot of work, but even the most complex elements become manageable with a clear roadmap. Here’s how you can effectively set up your consignment auction.

Selecting the right items

Choosing the right items is the first step in determining the success of your auction. Start by understanding your audience’s interests and the theme of your event. If your fundraiser supports a local school sports team, consider items like signed sports memorabilia or experience days at sporting events. For example, Silent Auction Pro partners with the Risk-Free Item Shop, a consignment option that offers a variety of items. Selecting items connected to your audience will likely boost engagement and bidding.

Understanding your consignment partner

Before making a commitment to a consignment company, take the time to understand their rules and policies. Each consignment partner may have specific item selection, pricing, and return policy guidelines. Familiarizing yourself with these details will help you make informed decisions and avoid potential confusion or misunderstandings during the auction process. 

When browsing a consignment shop’s auction items, consider the demographics of your attendees. Young professionals might appreciate tech gadgets or a weekend getaway, while a family-oriented crowd might respond better to package deals for local attractions or family vacations.

Setting up your auction

Integrating consignment items into your auction platform involves a few key steps:

• Item selection: Once you've chosen items from the consignment catalog, upload their details to your auction software. Include high-quality images and engaging descriptions highlighting each item's value and uniqueness. Most consignment partners provide all the best photos and dramatic details after you have committed to offering their item in your auction. Be sure to follow all their rules to ensure a good result for your bidders.
• Presentation: Consider how these items are presented both online and during the event. Videos showcasing the experience or testimonials from those who have enjoyed similar items can create more interest.
• Marketing: To preview these items, leverage social media, emails, and your event website. Tease some of the most exciting consignment items to create anticipation and encourage early registrations.

Pricing Strategies for Auction Items

Initial Pricing and Bidding Strategies

Setting the right starting bid is key to an auction’s momentum. Generally, starting bids are set at a percentage of the item's value—The Risk-Free Item Shop suggests around 30-50% of the retail value. This strategy ensures the item attracts initial interest while leaving room for bidding to rise, ultimately increasing the final sale amount.

Understanding and setting fair market values

Perceived value can influence bidding behavior. Labeling high-end consignment items as "Priceless" can create a buzz around these items, driving up bids. This strategy plays on the exclusivity and rarity of the item, encouraging attendees to bid generously in the spirit of supporting a good cause.

For example, a travel package might not have a fixed retail value due to fluctuating prices and exclusive add-ons provided through the auction. By listing it as Priceless, you emphasize the package's unique opportunity rather than allowing potential bidders to compare it directly with retail options.

By carefully planning your consignment auction, selecting the right items, and strategically pricing them, you can improve the success of your fundraising event. 

Marketing your consignment auction

Successfully marketing your consignment auction can increase participation and raise overall funds. Here’s how to approach this key phase.

Effective communication strategies

Effective communication begins with understanding your audience and using the right channels to reach them. Emails remain a powerful tool, especially when personalized. Start with a welcome email that previews exciting auction items and continues with regular updates that build anticipation. Include clear images and brief descriptions that focus on the uniqueness and value of each item.

Social media platforms are ideal for interactive engagement. Create posts highlighting individual consignment items with captivating visuals and stories about the potential impact of purchasing them. Use live videos or countdowns to the event to maintain excitement and urgency.

Creating engaging content

The content you create should speak directly to your audience’s interests and the mission of your cause. For example, if a consignment item is a luxury getaway, show images of the destination and emotionally describe the experience, like the peace of stepping away from everyday stress. Explain how bids on such items directly support your organization’s goals, connecting pleasure with purpose.

Highlighting the impact of bids

Each bid placed is more than just a potential win for the bidder; it’s a direct contribution to your cause. During the auction, use a digital thermometer or a progress bar to show how bids contribute to the fundraising goals visually. This display of your fundraising progress encourages competition among bidders and fosters a sense of community achievement.

Real-time updates, whether through an app or on screens at the event, keep participants engaged and informed about the status of their bids and the overall success of the auction.

Tips for providing a smooth experience

Provide a clear FAQ section on your auction website and a contact person for immediate post-auction inquiries. This section will help resolve any issues quickly and maintain the goodwill generated during the event.

Feedback and follow-up

Gathering feedback after the event is essential for refining future auctions. Send out a survey asking participants about their experience, what they liked, and what could be improved. Include questions about the auction items, the bidding process, and the overall event atmosphere.

Strategies for maintaining engagement

To keep participants engaged after the event, send thank-you emails recapping the auction's success and outlining what the raised funds will achieve. Continue sharing stories about the impact of their contributions through follow-up emails or social media posts and invite them to upcoming events.

This approach acknowledges their valuable participation and keeps them connected to your cause, encouraging ongoing support and involvement in future events.

Creative ideas for consignment auction items

Offering a wide range of consignment auction items is key to ensuring a successful fundraising event. When planning a fundraising auction, the key to success is carefully selecting items that connect to your audience. Understanding the interests, demographics, and preferences of your attendees is essential. This donor segmentation helps you align the auction items with your audience and increases the overall engagement and money raised.

The following list includes a range of creative auction item ideas designed to inspire. While these suggestions cover a broad spectrum—from exotic travel getaways to culinary experiences—it's important to consider customizing the selection to meet your event's participants' specific tastes and expectations. Most of these items are conveniently available through our partner, Risk-Free Item Shop, but you may find other options or can work out deals with local businesses. 

Remember, the goal is to create an exciting and rewarding experience that encourages generous bidding while supporting your cause. Your auction, whether a silent auction, live auction, or hybrid auction, is only as good as the items up for bid. Here is a list of items that can be the cherry on top of your existing auction catalog:

World travel experiences

Explore the globe without leaving your fundraiser. This category offers unforgettable international getaways and luxury stays, from the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the tranquil beaches of Bali. Ideal for those who love to discover new cultures and landscapes, these travel experiences promise adventure, relaxation, and luxury.

• 3-Night Stay at the 4 Diamonds of Mexico Resorts 
• 5-Night Arabian Adventure at Fairmont Dubai 
• 7-Night Bali Luxury Boutique Resort Stay 
• 5-Night Beach Escape to The Maldives 
• 5-Night Austrian Sound of Music Tour 
• 7-Night Best of Ireland Tour 
• 4-Night California Dreaming Package 
• 6-Night Drive Down the Beautiful Australian Coast 
• 5-Night Egyptian Pyramids Adventure 
• 7-Night Greek Island of Rhodes Paradise For 8
• 5-Night Luxurious Lisbon Culinary Experience 
• 7-Night South of France Private Home & Wine Tour For 8
• 5-Night Spain's Costa del Sol Beachview Pool Villa For 6
• 5-Night Switzerland Mountains, Falls & Chocolates 
• 5-Night Ultimate Greece Experience 

Adventure and sports

This category brings excitement right to your auction for thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts. Whether it’s a ski trip to top destinations, a canopy tour in Costa Rica, or an exhilarating shark diving experience, these items will surely spike the adrenaline and fetch enthusiastic bids.

• Adventure Awaits! Choose 2 Skiing Destinations - 5-night Stay

• Alaska Railway Adventure 

• Beachfront Resort Mexico 

• Belize Island Luxury 

• Canopy Tour Adventure in Costa Rica 

• Daytona 500 with a 2-night Hotel Stay 

• Fly Fishing Guided Adventure in Boulder 

• Grand Canyon Family Glamping in an Eco Luxury Sky Dome 

• Great White Shark Diving Experience 

• Hunter Valley, Australia Wine Tasting 

• Montenegro Majesty Private Residence 

• PGA Tour Championship Package 

• San Juan Islands Whale Watching Adventure 

• Sonoma Winemaker For A Day Experience 

• Zip Lining Adventure on Catalina Island 

Family-friendly and cultural

Perfect for families or cultural fans, this section includes items that provide both educational and fun experiences. From trips to Disney World and Broadway shows to interactive experiences at the Kennedy Space Center, these consignment auction items are designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

• American Girl Doll NY Experience 

• Disney World Family Adventure 

• Disneyland & Universal Studios Family Adventure 

• Hamilton on Broadway 

• Kennedy Space Center Astronaut Training 

• New York Museum and Popular Attractions Package 

• Santa Fe Cooking Experience 

• Safari West Family Driving Adventure 

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour Family Package 

• Washington D.C. Family Tour Package w 3-Night Stay 

Luxury and exclusive events

This category is designed to attract high bids by offering access to some of the most coveted events and luxurious experiences. With exclusive tickets to the Kentucky Derby, backstage passes, and luxury golf experiences, bidders can gain access to extraordinary events and services that are not easily accessible elsewhere.

• 2025 Kentucky Derby Tickets 

• Austin City Limits Festival 

• Beermaster Tour in St. Louis 

• Chicago Top 5 Attractions 

• Churchill Downs Winner's Circle Experience 

• Fairmont St. Andrews Scotland Golf Package 

• Las Vegas Adventure - Cirque Du Soleil 

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2024 

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 

• The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon 

• Luxurious Spa Package

Gourmet delights and epicurean adventures

This category caters to foodies and culinary enthusiasts, offering a tempting selection of dining experiences, wine tastings, and gourmet tours. These items promise delicious treats and provide unique insights into the worlds of fine dining and winemaking.

• Chef's Table Experience at a Michelin Star Restaurant Private Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour in Napa Valley
• Truffle Hunting Adventure in Tuscany.
• Sushi Making Masterclass with a Japanese Chef.
• Belgian Beer Experience.
• Charleston Seafood and Culinary Tour.
• French Pastry Workshop in Paris 

Bring your fundraising full circle with Silent Auction Pro

The selection and ideas we’ve explored are just the beginning. By tapping into the rich array of consignment auction items, you can create a unique and engaging auction made perfectly to your audience’s tastes and interests.

Silent Auction Pro goes beyond just facilitating the auction process; it empowers your fundraising efforts with intuitive tools and features designed to simplify event management from start to finish. Whether you are organizing a small charity event or a large-scale gala, Silent Auction Pro provides the technological support to make your event seamless and successful.

Request a free demo of Silent Auction Pro today. Experience firsthand how our platform can improve the operational aspects of your auctions and contribute to achieving—and surpassing—your fundraising goals. Make sure to also explore the full catalog of consignment auction items at The Risk-Free Shop. You have nothing to lose and tons to gain. 

Join countless other successful organizations that have made their fundraising events memorable and effective. With Silent Auction Pro and the diverse possibilities offered through Risk-Free Item Shop, your next event is ready for success.