What does "as-is, where-is" mean?
"As-is, where-is" means an item is sold in its present condition — no warranty, no returns — at its current location, with the buyer responsible for removal. It's standard on government surplus, and it means all condition and logistics risk is yours.
The two halves
- As-is — you get it in whatever condition it's in, with no warranty, refund, or return. "Untested," "for parts," and undisclosed faults are all on you.
- Where-is — the item stays put; you collect it or arrange removal from its location, usually by a removal deadline. This is why so many lots are pickup-only.
How to protect yourself
Treat anything not clearly pictured or described as missing or broken. Zoom into every photo, read the full condition notes, and price in repairs and transport before you bid. On as-is lots the discipline is simple: assume the worst that the listing doesn't rule out.
As-is isn't a red flag by itself — it's the normal way surplus is sold, and the reason prices open low. The danger isn't fraud; it's overpaying for condition you didn't verify.
Related terms
Friction (flags) · Removal deadline · Pickup-only · Full glossary
GavelGap flags as-is friction — untested, for-parts, locked, missing titles/keys, freight-only — on every GovDeals listing, so you price the risk before you bid.
See the Red Flag Checklist →