Previewing and Testing Your Auction

Before launching your event, it is important to review and test your auction to make sure everything is set up correctly.

CharityAuctions makes this easy by automatically placing every new auction into Test Mode, allowing you to preview and try out all features before going live.

Auctions Start in Test Mode

When you create a new auction, it automatically begins in Test Mode.

Test Mode allows you to:

• Build and customize your auction
• Add items and images
• Explore all platform features
• Practice bidding
• Review settings and design

Nothing is hidden while in Test Mode. You have full access to the entire system so you can prepare with confidence.

How to Preview Your Auction

At any time, you can view your auction exactly the way bidders will see it.

To preview your auction:

1. Open your auction dashboard
2. Click the auction share link or preview link (see where can I find my auction share link if you need help locating it)
3. View the event page as a bidder would see it

This allows you to confirm:

• Item descriptions and images
• Auction layout and design
• Categories and navigation
• Overall appearance and branding

Previewing your event helps you catch any changes you may want to make before launch.

Testing Bidding in Test Mode

Test Mode includes built-in tools to help you simulate real bidder activity.

While in Test Mode you can:

• Add up to 5 auction items
• Place up to 2 test bids on each item
• Experiment with bidding features
• Try different settings and options

This gives you a safe way to practice using the system without affecting real bidders or payments.

What Is Restricted in Test Mode

Although almost all features are available for testing, a few limitations are in place.

In Test Mode:

• Real payments cannot be processed
• Payment buttons are disabled
• Bidding is limited to test activity

These restrictions ensure that no real transactions occur while you are preparing your auction.

What Bidders See Before the Auction Goes Live

Before your auction officially opens:

• Bidders can view items and descriptions
• They can browse categories
• They can explore the event page
• They cannot place real bids
• They cannot make payments

This allows guests to preview your event without being able to take any action until the auction begins.

How to Test Your Setup

To properly test your auction before launch:

1. Add sample items and images
2. Place test bids on those items
3. Review the auction page as a bidder
4. Check all categories and links
5. Confirm event dates and settings
6. Make any needed adjustments

Completing these steps will help ensure your event runs smoothly when it goes live.

Best Practices

For the best results before launching:

• Use Test Mode to explore every feature
• Review your auction on both desktop and mobile
• Double-check item details and images
• Test bidding on multiple items
• Confirm start and end dates
• Make all final edits before switching to live mode

Taking time to test in advance can prevent issues during your event.

If you need help testing or preparing your auction for launch, Contact Support is always happy to assist.