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Looking for a budget-friendly way to score Apple AirPods? You might be surprised to learn that the TSA could be your next go-to source.
Why It Matters
Apple AirPods are among the most popular wireless earbuds globally, but they come with a hefty price tag. New AirPods (1st Generation) can cost up to $249; however, countless pairs are left behind at airport security checkpoints, creating an unexpected opportunity for savvy shoppers.
TSA auctions off these lost items through platforms like GovDeals, offering a chance to buy electronics, including AirPods, at a fraction of their retail price. This not only helps buyers save money but also reduces waste from unclaimed gadgets.
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What To Know
The TSA partners with online auction sites like GovDeals, where government agencies sell surplus and unclaimed property. Listings can include high-demand gadgets like AirPods, laptops and other electronics. These auctions provide a variety of items that were either confiscated at airport security checkpoints or left unclaimed.
GovDeals has a dedicated page specifically for Apple AirPods, featuring various auctions with listings such as “Apple AirPods Pro Gen 1 with MagSafe Charging Case Model A2190.” These listings typically include basic details like “both power on” without extensive condition reports.
Bidding for AirPods starts as low as $11, with similar items available in the $26 to $200 range, depending on the AirPods model.
Some listings also provide multiple photos, allowing bidders to assess the condition more accurately. Descriptions may note any visible wear, missing components or functional issues, but details can vary between listings.
Bidders can inspect items by appointment before bidding, which is especially useful for high-value electronics. If you are the highest bidder, payment typically must be made online within five business days. Depending on the seller, you may only have 24 hours to pick up your item if local pickup is required. For shipped items, the cost and delivery timeline will vary based on the seller’s policies.
While TSA auctions can be a goldmine, they come with risks. Items are sold “as-is,” meaning no returns or guarantees, so buyers should review photos and descriptions carefully. AirPods may also have battery issues, missing parts or cosmetic damage.
What Happens Next
To place a bid on GovDeals, you’ll have to sign into your account, enter your desired amount in the “Enter Bid” field on the asset page and click “Place Bid.” There is an “Auto-bid” feature, enabled by default, which lets you set a maximum bid limit. The system automatically increases your bid when outbid, up to your set limit. You can uncheck this for a straight bid.
Bids can’t be retracted, but you can lower an active auto-bid to the minimum to increase the chances of being outbid. Some items have reserve prices, and if unmet, sellers aren’t required to complete the sale—even if you’re the highest bidder.
