Learn how RunsList's A-through-D deal scoring system works and how to use it to identify the best auction opportunities.
What Are Deal Scores?
RunsList assigns every auction listing a composite deal score from A (best) to D (worst). This score combines three factors:
- Profit Potential (50%): The estimated spread between your landed cost and the retail value
- Comp Confidence (30%): How many comparable retail listings were found and how closely they match
- Risk Assessment (20%): Factors like title status, mileage, age, and market volatility
A Deals (75+ Score)
A deals represent the strongest opportunities. They have a healthy profit margin, backed by strong comp data, with minimal risk flags. These are the deals you want to bid on.
B Deals (50-74 Score)
B deals are solid opportunities with manageable risk. They might have slightly thinner margins or fewer comps, but still represent good buying opportunities for experienced dealers.
C Deals (25-49 Score)
C deals are marginal. They might have thin margins, limited comp data, or moderate risk factors. Proceed with caution and do additional research.
D Deals (Below 25 Score)
D deals carry significant risk — low profit potential, poor comp data, or major risk flags like salvage titles or extremely high mileage. Generally best avoided unless you have specific expertise.
How to Use Scores
- Filter your run list to A and B deals first
- Review C deals only if your run list is thin
- Skip D deals unless you have a specific buyer requesting that vehicle
- Always check the underlying data — scores are a starting point, not the final word
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main takeaway from Understanding Deal Scores: A Through D Explained?
Learn how RunsList's A-through-D deal scoring system works and how to use it to identify the best auction opportunities.
How should dealers use this before bidding?
Use the guidance before sale day to compare retail comps, estimate landed cost, set a max bid, and avoid vehicles where fees, reconditioning, title status, or buyer demand do not support the risk.
Who is this article written for?
This article is written for auto dealers, brokers, wholesalers, and flippers working on deal scoring who need faster auction decisions backed by comps, margin math, and risk flags.