GovDeals Blog

Ohio Surplus: Buying Government Auctions Near Me

Written by Ashley Fox | September 3, 2025

Ohio might be known for its Buckeye pride, but it’s also a goldmine for bargain hunters, flippers, and smart resellers looking to score big. Whether you’re a seasoned reseller or just getting started, GovDeals is your direct link to quality surplus across the state — vehicles, heavy equipment, office supplies, furniture, and more — often sold at a fraction of retail prices.

Here’s why Ohio’s surplus market is worth your attention — and how to turn surplus into serious profit.

Why Buy Surplus in Ohio

When government agencies no longer need vehicles, equipment, or other gear, they list it on GovDeals. These are well-kept items that you can buy at a fraction of the retail price. Buying used helps you save money—and it keeps good stuff out of landfills.

And with hundreds of government agencies in Texas using GovDeals, there’s always something new up for grabs. 

 

Who’s Selling in Ohio

Noteworthy agencies and organizations selling surplus in Ohio via GovDeals:

  • The State of Ohio
  • Ohio State University
  • Columbus Fleet Management
  • Ohio Department of Transportation
  • University of Cincinnati
  • Montgomery County
  • USPS
  • Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission
  • Cleveland
  • Piqua
  • Canton
  • Central Ohio Transit Authority
  • Cuyahoga County
  • Cleveland Metroparks
  • Great Parks of Hamilton County
  • Cincinnati Fleet Services
  • Elyria
  • Dayton Fleet
  • Dayton Public Schools
  • Kent State University

There are numerous ways to find specific sellers on GovDeals.

  • Find sellers near you by searching your zip code in our location search.
  • Type in your zip code
  • Adjust your radius
  • Select the 'show map' box
  • Hit search
  • You've got a list of live auctions near you!

Keep track of your favorite sellers by bookmarking or favoriting their URL. To find the URL, click 'View Seller's Other Assets' on an auction page of a seller you are interested in. This will provide a list of all items for sale from that seller. Save it and check regularly.

Hundreds of new surplus auctions are listed on GovDeals every day!

 

 

What's Selling in Ohio

Popular Items for Sale in Ohio

Light and Heavy-Duty Trucks, Automobiles, SUVs, Boats, Buses, Vans, ATVs, Specialized Vehicles, and more.                                                                                                                                                                
 Dozers, Backhoes, Tractors, Excavators, Cranes, Highway/Road Equipment, and more.

Tech & Office Gear
 Computers, Cell Phones, Monitors, Tablets, Audio/Visual Equipment, and more.
Furniture, Appliances, Collectibles, Clothing, Jewelry, Fitness Equipment, and more. 
Building, Factory Support, Power, Generation, Transmission, and Distribution, Public Utility, and Warehouse and Material Handling Equipment, Forklifts, and more.
Permanent and Portable Buildings, Vacant Land, Residential and Commercial Property, and more. 

 

Ohio Sold Results

 

 

How to Resell Surplus and Make Money

One of the biggest advantages of buying on GovDeals is the resale opportunity. Whether you're side hustling on weekends or building a full-blown business, government surplus can feed your inventory at unbeatable costs.

Where to Resell

  • Facebook Marketplace: Great for local resales — especially for selling items like furniture, tools, and equipment.
  • eBay: Ideal for smaller items, electronics, or collectibles with national interest.
  • Craigslist: Still works for certain categories and larger items like vehicles or trailers.
  • Flea Markets or Auctions: In-person sales can help you move inventory quickly and profitably.

Flipping Tips

  • Clean and Repair: A little polish goes a long way. Items in good visual condition sell faster and at higher prices.
  • Do Your Research: Before bidding, check recent selling prices on resell platforms to ensure a strong profit margin.
  • Tell the Story: Buyers love knowing the item’s origin. “From a local school district in Ohio” or “Used in a city fleet” can help add credibility and appeal.
  • Bundle for Value: If you bought a lot of similar items, bundle them into sets or offer bulk deals to attract buyers.

Ready to Start Flipping Ohio Surplus?

Whether you're outfitting a business on a budget, or just love the thrill of the find, GovDeals makes it easy to explore surplus listings from across the state. From Cincinatti to Toledo and everywhere in between, Ohio government surplus is full of hidden gems — and real resale potential.

 

Good for Your Wallet—and the Planet

Last year, over 35,000 items were sold on GovDeals in Ohio alone. That means fewer things went to waste and more people got affordable tools and gear.

Ready to Get Started?


 
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