Property Transfer and Public Sales

Property Transfer

GSA's Office of Personal Property Management helps federal agencies dispose of personal property that is no longer needed. Personal property items range from office equipment and furniture to specialized apparatus, including scientific devices and heavy machinery.

To do this, GSA helps other federal agencies, and state, local, and public organizations acquire these items. Property acquired from another federal agency does not require payment beyond shipping and transportation costs in most cases. If this personal property is not acquired by a state or public organization, the general public can buy it from GSA (see below).

Federally-recognized Native American Tribes can request personal property that has been transferred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) or the Indian Health Service (IHS). In most cases, BIA and IHS will not require payment from the tribe other than shipping and transportation costs. State-recognized tribes must contact their State Agency for Surplus Property to inquire about donation eligibility.

Public Sales

Once federal agencies, and state and local governments have had an opportunity to acquire property, the remaining property may be offered for public sale.

The Federal Surplus Personal Property Sales Program offers items that the federal government no longer needs for sale to the general public. Native American Tribes are also eligible to participate in these sales. The property for sale is subject to specific restrictions and limitations.

Examples of items GSA sells:

  • Agricultural, mining and construction vehicles and machinery
  • Cameras and projectors
  • Cars, vans, trucks, boats and airplanes
  • Communications equipment
  • Computers, printers, copiers and typewriters
  • Food preparation and servicing equipment
  • Hardware, plumbing, heating and electrical equipment
  • Jewelry and collectibles
  • Medical and laboratory equipment
  • Office and household furniture
  • Recreational and athletic equipment
  • Tools

Return to Native American Tribes page.

Last Reviewed: 2017-12-11