# Auctions

Auctions allow you to compete for business by submitting bids in real time. The auction format determines how prices change throughout the event. Depending on the type, prices may increase, decrease, or stay flexible as you and other participants place bids.

Each auction includes line items where you’ll provide pricing, availability, and delivery details. Auctions allow you to submit multiple bids or accept auction prices during the event to stay competitive. You can manage and respond to auction events from the RFQ events list.

### Auction types <a href="#auctiontypes" id="auctiontypes"></a>

#### Dutch auction

In a Dutch auction, the price starts low and increases automatically at set intervals. The first participant to accept wins the auction. Stay focused and act quickly to secure the event.

<figure><img src="/files/8g4TZXUa9DZpVvBBye0q" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

See: [Dutch auction](/suppliers/suppliers/auctions/dutch-auction.md)

#### English (classic) auction

In an English (classic) auction, you compete by submitting lower bids throughout the event. If your bid is the lowest at the end, you win. This is the original reverse auction format.

<figure><img src="/files/QoIsI88WKxx99omm15ZD" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

See: [English (classic) auction](/suppliers/suppliers/auctions/english-classic-auction.md)

#### Japanese auction

In a Japanese auction, the price starts high and drops in increments. At each price drop, you’ll decide whether to stay or leave. If you stay and all other participants drop out, you win the auction. If you leave or don’t respond in time, you’ll be removed from the event. Be prepared to act decisively.

<figure><img src="/files/D3wz5s76zDfm4ye0ibLI" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

See: [Japanese auction](/suppliers/suppliers/auctions/japanese-auction.md)


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.fairmarkit.com/suppliers/suppliers/auctions.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
