Chance to grab iPhones Apple Watches at low price:Premium gadgets available for e-auction; minimum bid price starts from ₹1; check step-by-step process on how to apply

In a rare and exciting opportunity for tech-savvy individuals, the Ahmedabad Customs department is set to host a massive e-auction of iPhones and Apple watches at Ahmedabad airport on Friday, 8 May, 2026. There will be a total of 87 seized iPhones and 27 Apple watches up for the e-auction round. If you have ever dreamed of owning a premium Apple device or a high-end luxury watch, then, today, your wishes might be relished. Items to be e-auctioned: The Customs department had seized these electronic items from passengers attempting to smuggle them into India between 2019 and 2023. iPhones: According to news daily ‘Ahmedabad Mirror’ the models range from the iPhone 11 series all the way up to the iPhone 15 series. Some of these models were bought by the passengers as brand new while some were already used. Apple Watches: Additionally, the auction includes Apple Watch Series 6 units also Can you buy just one item? (single vs bulk) For those wondering if they can bid on a single phone, the items have been organized into separate lots. Bidders will not be able to pitch bids for just one item. The products will be auctioned in bulk. Citizens need to bid on a lot containing multiple units rather than a single device. Albeit, the bidding price of lots would start from ₹1, but according to people associated with the auction process that we spoke to said that they expected the bidding amount to go as high as ₹40 lakh for one lot. Charges: Registration Charges: ₹11,800 (for individuals) EMD (Earnest Money Deposit): To participate, every bidder must deposit a fixed Earnest Money Deposit (EMD). This is a refundable security amount that ensures only serious buyers take part. Reportedly, this ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000 + (depending on lot value). Taxes: It is important to note that the final bid price is not the only cost. Buyers will have to pay GST at applicable rates and any other additional government taxes or duties on top of their winning bid. Step-by-Step: How to Apply The entire process is being conducted online. The auction is managed through the government of India’s PSU, Metal Scrap Trade Corporation Limited’s (MSTC) official website. Registration: Visit the official MSTC website. If you are a new user, you must register as a ‘Buyer.’ Document Submission: Provide necessary KYC details, including your PAN card and GST registration (if applicable). Otherwise select ‘No GST.’ Registration fees: Individuals are required to complete the registration process through payment of ₹11,800 registration charges. Pay EMD: Once registered, look for the Ahmedabad Customs SVPIA auction. Pay the required EMD for the specific lot you are interested in. Check items physically at airport before you buy: The Customs department has arranged for a physical display of the items at the Ahmedabad Airport premises. It is highly recommended that you inspect before bidding the iPhone or the luxury watch item that you intend to buy. Where to inspect? The authorities have arranged a warehouse at Terminal 2 of the airport. Interested individuals are allowed to visit the warehouse to get a glimpse of items physically for which they would put bids, electronically. Bidding: Log in on 8 May during the specified auction hours (12 pm to 4 pm) and place your bids. The highest bidder at the close of the auction wins the lot. Conditions: No warranty: This is the most critical rule. The items are sold in their current condition. The Customs department does not provide any warranty, guarantee, or after-sales service. No Withdrawals: Once you submit a bid, you cannot take it back. No Enquiries After Delivery: Once the material is lifted from the airport, the department will not entertain any complaints or questions regarding the quality or working condition of the items. Additional Commissioner of Customs, Sriram Bishnoi said to ‘Ahmedabad Mirror,’ that such an auction is being held after a gap of nearly 8 to 10 years. In recent years, there has been a massive surge in smuggling attempts, particularly from hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Just last year, in July 2025, officials caught passengers carrying dozens of iPhone 16 Pro devices hidden in their luggage. While those newer models are still undergoing legal proceedings, the older stock from 2019–2023 is now ready for public sale.