Million-Dollar Bids: Monterey's 2025 Classic Car Auction Battlefield

Monterey Car Week 2025 is rapidly approaching, promising an unparalleled showcase of automotive excellence as the world's most prestigious collector car auctions prepare to bring hundreds of millions of dollars worth of extraordinary vehicles to California's picturesque peninsula.

Taking place from Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 17, this celebrated week has become the epicenter of high-stakes car collecting, where auction houses like RM Sotheby's, Gooding & Company, Bonhams, Mecum, and Broad Arrow compete to present the finest automotive treasures to global bidders. As the official logistics partner for RM Sotheby's and a trusted international shipping expert, West Coast Shipping stands ready to ensure these valuable vehicles arrive safely and depart securely – making us your essential transportation ally whether you're a consignor showcasing a rare classic or a buyer securing your next collection centerpiece.

As the exclusive logistics partner for RM Sotheby's throughout 2025, West Coast Shipping provides specialized transportation solutions for their entire global auction calendar. To learn more about this groundbreaking partnership and how it benefits collectors worldwide, read our detailed announcement about West Coast Shipping's official partnership with RM Sotheby's for all 2025 auctions. This collaboration ensures seamless vehicle transportation for consignors and buyers at every RM Sotheby's event, from sealed bid auctions to flagship live events like Monterey, with our team providing on-site support and comprehensive logistics services throughout the year.

RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction 2025: Setting the Gold Standard

RM Sotheby's annual Monterey sale represents the pinnacle of collector car auctions worldwide, consistently establishing market benchmarks and setting world records with extraordinary offerings. As their official logistics partner, West Coast Shipping proudly supports this cornerstone event of Monterey Car Week.

Venue and Dates

Location: Portola Hotel and Monterey Conference Center, Monterey, CA
Dates: August 15-16, 2025
Preview Days: Likely August 13-14, 2025

Auction Details and Atmosphere

The 2025 event marks RM Sotheby's 28th year on the Monterey Peninsula, showcasing their unparalleled expertise in presenting the world's most significant automobiles. The elegant evening sessions at the Portola Hotel create a sophisticated atmosphere where serious collectors gather to witness automotive history unfold.

West Coast Shipping's team will be on-site throughout the event, providing immediate assistance for vehicle logistics and transportation arrangements for both consignors and buyers.

Fees and Registration

While specific 2025 fee structures haven't been officially published, RM Sotheby's typically implements:

• Buyer's Premium: 10-12% depending on final hammer price

• Seller's Commission: Negotiated individually with consignors

• Bidder Registration: Approximately $300, including auction catalog and admission for two

Online Bidding Options

RM Sotheby's offers comprehensive remote bidding options:

1. Live Online Bidding: Real-time participation through their secure bidding platform

2. Telephone Bidding: Dedicated representatives place bids on your behalf

3. Absentee Bidding: Submit maximum bids before the auction begins

To register for online bidding:

1. Create an account on RM Sotheby's website

2. Complete the online registration form

3. Submit required identity verification documents

4. Provide financial references or bank letter of guarantee

5. Once approved, you'll receive access to their bidding platform

Consignments and Catalog

The official catalog will be available closer to the event date. West Coast Shipping works closely with RM Sotheby's to ensure seamless transportation for consigned vehicles, handling everything from international shipping and customs clearance to final preparation before crossing the auction block.

Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auctions 2025: The Official Concours Auction

As the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, Gooding & Company presents exceptional automobiles in a setting befitting their significance.

Venue and Dates

Location: Pebble Beach Parc du Concours, Pebble Beach, CA
Dates:

• Friday, August 15, 2025 at 4:00 PM PDT

• Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM PDT

Auction Details

Marking their twenty-second year at Pebble Beach, Gooding & Company's auction coincides with the 74th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Their signature blue tent at the Parc du Concours provides an elegant venue for examining these exceptional automobiles before they cross the block.

Comprehensive Fee Structure

Gooding & Company has published their complete fee structure for the 2025 Pebble Beach auctions:

Buyer's Premium:

• Vehicle Lots:

  • 12% on final bid prices of $250,000 and below

  • 12% on the first $250,000 and 10% on the remainder for bids above $250,000

• Automobilia Lots: 25% of the final bid price

Bidder Registration: $200 (includes catalog, admission for two to the viewing and auction with two reserved seats, subject to availability)

General Admission: $50 per person (admits one to all events)

Catalog: $120 (admits two to all events)

Registration Process

To register for bidding at Gooding & Company's Pebble Beach auction:

1. Submit Registration Application through one of these methods:

   • By mail

   • By email to bidders@goodingco.com

   • By fax to 310.526.6594

   • On-site at the auction event

   • Online at bid.goodingco.com

   • Through Gooding's mobile apps for iOS and Android

2. Provide Required Documentation:

   • Completed registration application forms

   • Identification (Driver's License or Passport for individuals, corporate documentation for companies)

   • Original Bank Letter of Guarantee or other proof of ability to pay

Important Deadlines and Logistics

• Payment Deadline: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 by 5:00 PM PDT

• Vehicle Removal Deadline: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 by 5:00 PM PDT

• Storage Fees: Vehicles not removed by the deadline will incur a fee of up to $50 per day plus removal costs

West Coast Shipping can handle all post-auction transportation needs, ensuring purchased vehicles are properly removed, stored, and shipped to their new homes before any deadline penalties occur.

Mecum Auctions Monterey 2025: High-Volume Excellence

Mecum Auctions brings a different approach to Monterey Car Week, offering a large selection of vehicles across multiple price points and making collector car ownership accessible to enthusiasts at various levels.

Venue and Dates

Location: Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course
Dates: August 14-16, 2025
Seller Check-In: Tuesday and Wednesday, August 12-13 from 8 AM until 6 PM

Auction Format

Mecum offers an all-day auction experience with continuous vehicle presentations throughout each day. Their approach focuses on volume and accessibility, typically offering 600 vehicles during the Monterey event, ranging from prewar classics to modern supercars and vintage motorcycles.

Fee Structure and Registration

While specific 2025 fee structures haven't been officially published, Mecum typically implements:

• Buyer's Premium: 10% on all vehicle lots

• Seller's Fee: Varies based on reserve/no reserve status and vehicle value

• Bidder Registration: Advance tickets 25% discount; $30 after auction begins

Online Bidding Process

Mecum offers a well-developed online bidding platform:

1. Create an account on Mecum.com

2. Complete the online bidder registration form

3. Submit required documentation

4. Pay registration fee

Whether your newly acquired Mecum purchase needs domestic or international shipping, West Coast Shipping can provide a comprehensive solution to deliver your vehicle safely to its destination.

Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction 2025: The Elegant Setting

Bonhams' annual sale takes place at the exclusive Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel, coinciding with "The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering," one of Monterey Car Week's most prestigious events.

Venue and Dates

Location: Quail Lodge & Golf Club, West Field, Carmel, California
Preview Days:

• Wednesday, August 14 from 9 AM to 6 PM

• Thursday, August 15 from 9 AM to 6 PM

• Friday, August 16 from 8:30 AM to 11 AM

Auction Day: Friday, August 16 starting at 11 AM

Fee Structure

While specific 2025 fee structures haven't been officially published, Bonhams typically implements:

• Buyer's Premium: 12% of the first $250,000 and 10% of amounts exceeding $250,000

• Seller's Commission: Negotiated individually with consignors

• Bidder Registration: Approximately $150-200, including catalog and admission

Online Bidding Options

Bonhams offers several remote bidding options:

1. Bonhams Live: Their proprietary online bidding platform

2. Telephone Bidding: Dedicated staff relays bids to the auctioneer in real-time

3. Absentee Bidding: Submit maximum bids prior to the auction

West Coast Shipping can coordinate with Bonhams to ensure smooth transportation for vehicles purchased at their Quail Lodge auction, regardless of final destination.

Broad Arrow Auctions Monterey Jet Center 2025: The Aviation-Themed Experience

Broad Arrow Auctions hosts their signature Monterey event at the picturesque Monterey Jet Center, creating a unique atmosphere where exceptional automobiles are showcased alongside vintage aircraft.

Venue and Dates

Location: Monterey Jet Center, Monterey, California
Preview Days:

• Wednesday, August 13 from 10 AM to 5:30 PM

• Thursday, August 14 from 10 AM to 3 PM

Auction Days:

• Wednesday, August 13 at 5:30 PM

• Thursday, August 14 at 3 PM

Fee Structure and Registration

• Bidder Registration: $300 for in-person bidding, including admission, seating for two, and auction catalog

• Telephone, Absentee, and Internet Bidding: Complimentary

• Admission: Public preview is complimentary during posted hours; auction attendance reserved for consignors, registered bidders and their guests, and approved media

Approximately 150 exceptional motor cars will be offered at this auction, kicking off Monterey Car Week in grand style. West Coast Shipping can ensure your Broad Arrow purchase reaches its destination safely and efficiently.

West Coast Shipping: Your Comprehensive Logistics Solution for Monterey Car Week

As the premier international car shipping company and official logistics partner for RM Sotheby's, West Coast Shipping provides specialized transportation solutions for all Monterey Car Week auctions. Our comprehensive services ensure your valuable vehicle arrives safely and on time, whether you're consigning a rare classic or purchasing your next collection piece.

Our Specialized Auction Services

For Consignors:

• Secure Transportation: Door-to-auction venue shipping with specialized handling for valuable vehicles

• Documentation Assistance: Expert guidance on temporary import/export paperwork

• On-Site Support: Representatives available throughout Monterey Car Week

For Buyers:

• Immediate Post-Auction Transport: Quick removal and secure storage of purchased vehicles

• International Shipping: Seamless transportation to destinations worldwide

• Customs Clearance: Complete import/export documentation and processing

• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive protection throughout the shipping process

Transportation Options for Every Timeline and Budget

Container Shipping

Ideal for planned shipments with longer lead times, our container shipping service offers secure transportation from Europe to California starting at $3,150 USD with a transit time of 35-45 days. This service includes:

• Complete documentation and customs clearance

• Indoor storage at our facilities for preparation

• Enclosed delivery to auction venues

Air Freight

For last-minute arrangements or time-sensitive situations, our air freight service provides expedited shipping from Europe to major US airports like SFO or LAX within 4-7 days at $12,750 USD. This premium service features:

• Expedited documentation clearance

• 2-hour transit time via enclosed transporter to auction venues

• Priority handling for auction deadlines

Planning Your Monterey Transportation

To ensure your vehicle arrives in pristine condition for Monterey Car Week auctions, we recommend the following timeline:

• Container Shipping: Arrange by June 1st for August arrival (35-45 day transit time)

• Air Freight: Schedule by August 1st for timely delivery (4-7 day transit time)

• Documentation: Begin preparation 4-6 weeks before shipping

• Vehicle Preparation: Complete 2-3 weeks before transportation

For detailed guidance on shipping options, costs, and requirements, visit our comprehensive guide on shipping your car to Monterey Car Week 2025.

Insider Tips for Auction Success from West Coast Shipping Experts

For First-Time Bidders

1. Attend Preview Days: Thoroughly inspect vehicles before bidding, ideally with a marque specialist

2. Set a Budget: Determine your maximum bid before the auction begins and include buyer's premium in your calculations

3. Research Historical Values: Understand recent sales of comparable vehicles

4. Practice Bidding Strategy: Decide whether to bid early or wait until later in the bidding process

5. Prepare for Logistics: Contact West Coast Shipping before the auction to discuss transportation options for potential purchases

For Consignors

1. Documentation Matters: Assemble a comprehensive history file including service records, ownership history, and period documentation

2. Presentation is Key: Consider professional detailing and minor cosmetic improvements before consignment

3. Reserve Strategy: Work closely with auction specialists to set appropriate reserves that attract bidders while protecting your investment

4. Marketing Opportunities: Take advantage of pre-auction promotion through auction house catalogs, websites, and social media

5. Early Logistics Planning: Partner with West Coast Shipping well in advance to ensure timely delivery to the auction venue

The Evolving Landscape of Monterey Auctions

The 2025 Monterey auctions come at an interesting time in the collector car market. Several trends are likely to influence this year's results:

Market Dynamics

• Generational Shift: Younger collectors are increasingly influencing market preferences, with growing interest in 1980s-2000s vehicles

• Investment Perspective: More buyers are approaching collecting with an investment mindset, seeking vehicles with potential appreciation

• Digital Integration: Online bidding has expanded the global reach of these auctions, increasing competition for premier lots

• Provenance Premium: Vehicles with exceptional history, documentation, and originality continue to command significant premiums

Economic Factors

• Interest Rate Environment: Current monetary policy affects financing options for high-value purchases

• Currency Fluctuations: International buyers may benefit from favorable exchange rates when working with West Coast Shipping's global expertise

• Alternative Investments: Collector cars are increasingly viewed as portfolio diversification assets

Let West Coast Shipping Be Your Monterey Auction Partner

Monterey Car Week 2025 promises an extraordinary gathering of the world's finest automobiles and most discerning collectors. Whether you're consigning a vehicle with RM Sotheby's, bidding at Gooding & Company's Pebble Beach Auctions, or exploring offerings at Bonhams, Mecum, or Broad Arrow, proper logistics planning is essential for success.

As the official logistics partner for RM Sotheby's and a trusted transportation provider for all major auction events, West Coast Shipping offers unparalleled expertise in moving collector vehicles to and from Monterey Car Week. Our specialized services ensure your automotive treasures arrive safely and on time, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the auctions themselves.

Don't let transportation concerns prevent you from participating in these world-class events. Contact West Coast Shipping today to discuss your transportation needs for Monterey Car Week 2025 and experience the peace of mind that comes from entrusting your valuable vehicle to the industry leader in international car shipping.