Why are goods sold at auction? Surely this does not maximize the value of the goods?

The enforcement regulations don't require bailiffs to sell controlled goods by auction.

Bailiffs must sell the goods for the best price he can reasonably get.^[1]

The methods of sale can be by private sale, sealed bids, advertising them or any method considered appropriate.^[2]

Most vehicles sold by bailiff companies are on eBay usually through scrap dealers.^[3]

^{[1] Paragraph 37(1) of Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007
[2] Regulation 41(1) of the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013
[3] See scrap vehicle dealers (used by Newlyn Plc) A1 Environmental Ltd (Louis Sanders 'Baldrick333' ebay account suspended)}