State Line Auction Marks 40 Years in the Vehicle Bidding Business

State Line Auto Auction in Waverly, NY will celebrate its 40th anniversary on June 18, 40 years to the day that Harry and Zora Barber opened their first ever auto auction, according to a recent company press release. On that day, State Line offered 107 vehicles in two lanes, and sold 27 of them.

Now, the third generation of the Barber family carries on the auction tradition. The business uses a modern eight-lane facility, with both dealer consignment and commercial accounts providing a weekly in-person live auction coupled with the most updated simulcast capabilities. Digital offerings allow customers to also buy and sell vehicles on multiple platforms throughout the week on non-auction days. 

Jeff Barber, his sister Jane, and his brother, Dale, were partners in the business for a period of time following Harry’s passing in 1984. Starting in 2011, Jeff and his wife Jean have welcomed all of their four children as partners in the business. Beth, Emily and Paul are all heavily involved in the daily operations, with their older sister Kate working as an attorney in Washington, D.C.   

Waverly, NY is located to provide efficient service to upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. The market coverage for State Line extends throughout the nation, with new dealers discovering State Line’s offerings every week. Many major accounts and dealerships use State Line for their needs as both sellers and buyers.  

In March 1990, State Line conducted its first General Motors sponsored auction, which it continues as a General Motors Financial auction to this day. 1995 saw the construction of a new dealer service facility and in October of that year, State Line sold its first vehicle via simulcast on during a closed General Motors sale, which it claims is a first for the industry as well.  

The past decade has seen the construction and development of State Line’s vehicle distribution center situated for serving the northeastern U.S. State Line’s own rail siding is the next “milestone” to be reached, as both inbound and outbound motor vehicles will be processed for long haul shipment.

40th anniversary festivities will include a consignment of more than 1,000 vehicles, free food and a $20,000 drawing at sale end. In keeping with tradition, $500 is added every year, given away in $500 increments. Hence, 40 lucky customers will win $500 each.

State Line Auto Auction is a member of the National Auto Auction Association, and a charter member of ServNet. Technology for State Line is provided by the Auction Edge platform.