Extremely disappointing experience
Extremely disappointing experience – I would avoid Irish Machinery Auctions
I purchased a Hyundai Petrol Pole Chainsaw, from Irish Machinery Auctions (IMA).
The lot was described simply as a “Hyundai Petrol Pole Chainsaw” and the photographs presented what appeared to be an intact machine. There was no clear indication that it was a non-functioning machine, a parts-only item or effectively a scrap-value item.
After collection and inspection, I discovered significant problems that were not adequately disclosed in the auction listing. The condition of the machine was substantially different from what I reasonably understood from the description and photographs.
Importantly, the initial asking price did not reflect the value of a non-functioning, parts-only or scrap item. Had the true condition been clearly disclosed, I would not have valued or bid on the machine in the same way.
I raised the matter with IMA and was particularly disappointed by the solution proposed by the manager. His solution was to put the machine back into the next auction at no additional fee.
I found this proposed solution unethical and, in my opinion, morally unacceptable, and I declined it.
It did not actually resolve the problem; it simply transferred the problem back to me and potentially placed another buyer in the same position. I would not be comfortable reselling the machine without fully disclosing its actual condition, which is precisely why I could not accept the proposed solution.
I fully understand that auction purchases involve buying used equipment and that buyers accept a degree of risk. However, there is a significant difference between buying used machinery with normal wear and buying an item that is effectively non-functioning or suitable only for parts, without that being clearly disclosed.
For me, the issue is not simply that I bought a faulty piece of used machinery. It is the combination of how the machine was represented, the condition in which it was actually received, the price paid in the circumstances, and the proposed resolution when I raised the complaint.
Based on this experience, I would strongly recommend avoiding Irish Machinery Auctions altogether. At the very least, potential buyers should inspect machinery thoroughly in person before bidding and should not rely on the auction photographs and description as an indication that an item is complete or functional.
A very disappointing experience from start to finish.








