OutbidX Team · November 3, 2025 · 7 min read
The Selection Checklist
With so many options on the market, choosing a charity auction platform can be overwhelming. Some charge high upfront fees, others take a cut of your proceeds. Here is a checklist to keep you focused on what matters and help you find the partner that aligns with your fundraising goals.
1. Transparent Pricing Models
This is often the biggest differentiator. Pricing usually falls into three categories:
- Performance-based: The platform takes a % of total revenue (e.g., 5-7%). This is low risk but gets very expensive if you raise a lot.
- Flat Fee: A one-time cost (e.g., $500 per event). Great for larger events where a percentage would cost thousands.
- Subscription: Monthly access. Ideal for organizations running multiple events per year.
Compare the complete cost: monthly subscription, percentage sale fee, per-sale flat fee and payment processing. OutbidX uses these fee components; see current plan prices and estimates.
2. User Experience (UX) & Design
Your donors are there to support you, not to fight with a clunky app. The aesthetic of the platform reflects on your brand.
- Web-based is Best: Avoid requiring donors to download a specific app from the App Store. A mobile-responsive website (PWA) removes friction.
- Branding: OutbidX supports an organizer logo, item photographs and supplied sponsor logos. Preview those assets before sharing; a custom theme or white-label site is not included.
3. Support & Reliability
Does the platform offer day-of-event support? Technical glitches can happen—WiFi goes down, user error occurs. Having a dedicated support team or a thorough knowledge base is invaluable.
4. Payment Integration
Ensure the platform integrates with reputable payment processors like Stripe. You want funds deposited directly into your bank account, not held in a third-party wallet.