What to Expect

First time buyer? First time bidder? You've come to the right place!  We've been in your shoes. We've felt the mix of excitement and anxiety that can come with buying a new horse! We are here to make March 23rd the most exciting, joyful, and stress-free "Gotcha Day"!

Veteran buyer? Experienced bidder? You too have come to the right place! We can't wait  for you to experience an auction like no other. We are so excited to show you true southern hospitality, a world class venue, and a simple streamlined process.

BEFORE the Auction Weekend

• Contact Consignors- ask questions (be honest about your abilities and what you need), try horses at their homes, view vet reports. 
• If you'd like, order a print catalog. 
• Register to bid by noon, March 22.
• Want more health information on a potential purchase? Schedule additional Pre Purchase Exams with our onsite vet, Dr. Mitchell, by calling us at 803-702-5405.
• Keep an eye on your emails.  Add info@southernbelleclassic.com to your email contacts.  Important updates and announcements will come from this address. 

March 22-23 (In Person Bidders)

• The Sale Office is open to the public at 10AM Friday and 9AM Saturday.  (If you would like to observe the Friday 8AM vet exams you are welcome to.)  
• Upon arrival, head to the Sale Office located in the Pavilion (large brown building with flags atop).
• Collect your Buyer Packet which will include your bidder number, facility map, and schedule. Here you will also collect your preordered Southern Supper Tickets and VIP Packages. (Southern Supper tickets are  now SOLD OUT. VIP tickets have limited to availability and may be purchased in the office).
• Sign a Rider's Waiver. If you plan to ride any horses Friday or Saturday, this is required. Sign HERE.
• Head over to Barns A-D to meet the stars of the show!!
• Horses are available for trial until 3:00 Friday and 11:00 Saturday (signed waiver required).
• Enjoy our amazing vendors and food trucks.  Grab a drink from the bar. Enjoy the beautiful grounds of Stable View.
• Watch the scheduled previews- Friday 3:00 and Saturday 11:30.
• Saturday- find a seat in the stands, in standing room, or at your reserved table with a VIP Experience.  The Auction starts promptly at 3:00PM eastern time.
• If this is your first time bidding, find a staff member and let us know.  We are here to help you!  The process is really quite simple and will be explained clearly before the auction begins.

March 22-23 (Online and Phone Bidders)

• Watch the previews Friday at 3:00 and Saturday at 11:30. Watch HERE.
• Online- Log onto CCI and be ready to bid.
• Phone- Expect your call from a staff member 2-3 horses before your hip number of interest.

I'm the high bidder! Now what?

• In-Person Buyers- Take your winning ticket to the sale office and settle your tab. Payment by cash, personal check (please have your driver's license available) or bank wire is accepted. If you plan to pay with a credit card, please notify our staff at check in. Please be aware there is a 4.6-4.8% convenience fee. 
• Phone and Online Buyers- Expect a phone call within moments of your winning bid! Please keep your phone handy.  If we are unable to make contact within a reasonable amount of time, the horse may go back up for bid.
• All buyers will be asked how their horse will be traveling home. No Limit Transportation will be on-site to assist with hauling needs.
• While in the office, consider purchasing equine insurance with Kay Walters Equine Insurance. We strongly encourage all buyers to immediately insure their purchases.
• Your horse will have everything he or she needs to travel home.  A CVI (health papers), Coggins, and new halter are provided with every horse!  
• You must have a paid invoice in order to load out. Invoices will be checked at the trailer departure gate. Horses may leave Saturday night or stay in their stall until noon Sunday at no charge.  It is the responsibility of the new owner to make sure the horse has food, hay and water until his departure. New owners not in attendance should be in touch with the consignor and/or sale office to arrange care. 
• Buyers paying by wire transfer must stable over Sunday night until transfer can be completed Monday morning. (Exception- buyers who choose to use our exclusive hauler, No Limit Transportation.  Horses will ship according to No Limit Transportation's schedule.)

Hear more about what to expect at the Southern Belle Classic on this episode of the Belles in Boots Podcast.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please call! We are excited to meet you!