A minimal fee must be paid before the auction to obtain a paddle for bidding. Each paddle has a number on it, which the auctioneer recognizes as your bidding number. To bid, hold up your paddle. The cost of the paddle will be refunded if you do not purchase anything. The bidding at postal service auctions is extremely unpredictable and quirky.
Some lots are overbid, while others go for the minimum bid.
Merchandise must be picked up a day or two after the auction. Write down your maximum bids, during the actual auction. Listen carefully to the bidding, and don't exceed your maximum. Sit in the back of the room to see who is bidding against you. Take someone who is knowledgeable to the visual inspection, especially if you're planning to bid on something like electronic equipment, find out how much that particular piece is worth, and calculate your top bid by including the cost of repair.