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:
- Open your auction dashboard.
- Click the auction share link or preview link.
- 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:
- Add sample items and images.
- Place test bids on those items.
- Review the auction page as a bidder.
- Check all categories and links.
- Confirm event dates and settings.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I preview my auction before publishing?
Simply open your auction link while the event is in Test Mode to see exactly how it will appear to bidders.
Can bidders preview items before the auction starts?
Yes. Bidders can view and browse items, but they cannot place real bids until the auction is live.
How do I test my auction setup?
Use Test Mode to add up to 5 items and place up to 2 test bids per item to simulate bidder activity.
What do bidders see before the auction goes live?
They can see the auction page and item details, but payment buttons are disabled and real bidding is restricted.
Are any features hidden in Test Mode?
No. All features are available for testing. Only real payments and full bidding are restricted.
If you need help testing or preparing your auction for launch, CharityAuctions support is always happy to assist.
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