How to Set Up Time-Limited Auctions in PrestaShop Auction Module

Online auctions are a great way to increase customer engagement and drive sales. If you are using the PrestaShop Auction Module, you can create time-limited auctions to encourage buyers to act quickly. This feature allows you to set a specific time frame for bidding, making the auction process more exciting and competitive. In this guide, we’ll show you how to set up time-limited auctions using the PrestaShop Auction Module and explore features like Popcorn bidding in PrestaShop to maximize your auction success.

Why Use Time-Limited Auctions in PrestaShop Auction Module?

Time-limited auctions create a sense of urgency, motivating buyers to place bids before the auction ends. Here’s why you should set up time-limited auctions in your PrestaShop Auction Module:

• Increases buyer engagement – Shoppers bid actively to win the auction.
• Boosts sales and revenue – Competitive bidding can lead to higher final prices.
• Encourages quick decision-making – Customers don’t delay their purchases.
• Prevents inactive listings – Auctions close on time, ensuring regular sales flow.

Now, let’s go through the step-by-step process of setting up a time-limited auction in the PrestaShop Auction Module.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Time-Limited Auctions in PrestaShop Auction Module

1. Install and Configure the PrestaShop Auction Module

If you haven’t installed the PrestaShop Auction Module, follow these steps:

1. Go to PrestaShop Admin Panel
2. Navigate to Modules > Module Manager
3. Search for PrestaShop Auction Module
4. Click Install and wait for the installation to complete
5. Go to Module Settings and configure basic auction settings

Once installed, you can start creating auctions for your products.

2. Add a New Auction in the PrestaShop Auction Module

To create a new auction:

1. Go to Modules > PrestaShop Auction Module
2. Click Add New Auction
3. Select the product you want to auction
4. Enter Auction Title and Description
5. Set the Starting Price and Reserve Price
6. Choose Auction Type (Standard or Popcorn Bidding in PrestaShop)
7. Click Save

This will list your product as an auction item in your PrestaShop Auction Module.

3. Set Time-Limited Auction Duration

To make your auction time-limited:

1. Go to the Auction Settings
2. Find the option Auction Start and End Time
3. Enter the Start Date and Time
4. Enter the End Date and Time
5. Click Save

Now, your auction will automatically close at the specified time.

4. Enable Popcorn Bidding in PrestaShop (Optional)

Popcorn bidding in PrestaShop extends the auction time if a bid is placed close to the ending time. This prevents last-second sniping and ensures fair bidding.

To enable popcorn bidding:

1. Go to Auction Settings
2. Find the option Enable Popcorn Bidding
3. Set the Time Extension Duration (e.g., 2 minutes)
4. Click Save

With this feature, the auction will remain open for a few extra minutes if a bid is placed near the end time.

5. Set Minimum Bid Increments

To ensure fair bidding, you can set a minimum bid increment:

1. Go to the Auction Page
2. Find the option Minimum Bid Increment
3. Enter a value (e.g., $5)
4. Click Save

This ensures each new bid must be higher than the previous bid by at least the set amount.

6. Display Auction Timer for Buyers

To make your auction more interactive, display a countdown timer on the product page:

1. Go to the Auction Display Settings
2. Enable Show Auction Countdown Timer
3. Choose the Position on the Product Page
4. Click Save

This will show the remaining auction time, increasing urgency among buyers.

7. Notify Bidders About Auction Updates

To keep bidders informed:

1. Enable Email Notifications in the Auction Module
2. Set up alerts for New Bids, Winning Bid, and Auction Ending Soon
3. Click Save

This ensures bidders stay engaged until the auction ends.

8. Review and Publish Your Auction

Once all settings are configured:

1. Review the auction details
2. Click Activate Auction
3. Your auction will now be live on your PrestaShop Auction Module

Best Practices for Successful Time-Limited Auctions

1. Choose the Right Auction Duration

• Short auctions (24-48 hours) create urgency.
• Longer auctions (5-7 days) attract more bids.

2. Use Popcorn Bidding for High-Demand Items

• Helps prevent last-second sniping.
• Ensures fair bidding and higher final sale price.

3. Promote Your Auction

• Share on social media and email newsletters.
• Use banners on your website to highlight auctions.

4. Monitor Auctions and Adjust Strategies

• Check which auctions perform best.
• Experiment with different auction lengths and starting prices.

Final Thoughts

Setting up time-limited auctions in the PrestaShop Auction Module is a great way to increase engagement and boost sales. By configuring the right settings, enabling Popcorn bidding in PrestaShop, and promoting your auctions effectively, you can attract more bidders and maximize profits.

Follow these steps and watch your online auctions succeed!