FREDERICK, Md. -

Leaders of the National Auto Auction Association all agree that adoption of NAAA’s National Certification Standard Program continues to expand since its release on Jan. 1.

NAAA executive director Frank Hackett indicated program implementation is an ongoing process being rolled out during the next six weeks.

The association pointed out companies that have already announced plans to participate include ADESA, Manheim, ServNet Auction Group, Independent Auction Group, Auction Broadcasting Co., America’s Auto Auctions, American Auto Auction Group, Automotive Resources International, Kia Motors, AmeriCredit/GM Financial, Hyundai Financial, Santander and Bank of America.

The NAAA reiterated that it launched the program after extensive research, coupled with significant dialog and cooperation from its remarketing partners and the International Automotive Remarketing Alliance. The association believes this universal streamlined set of standards will create numerous benefits for all stakeholders, auctions and especially buyers in-lane and online.

The program was previously endorsed by IARA.

“We encourage auctions to adopt NCS as soon as possible and then inform their remarketing partners that they’re on board with the program,” Hackett advised, adding that posters and other materials are being shipped to assist members with their participation.

Dave Angelicchio, former NAAA president who chairs its standards committee, emphasized his team will monitor the performance of the program to help guide member auctions in a uniform application, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

“NCS is an easy-to-use tool employing a concise checklist of 48 basic criteria, which describe in clear, straightforward language specific conditions to meet one of three quality levels — silver, gold or platinum,” Angelicchio explained.

“It was designed to be comprehensive in scope in order to handle a broad range of vehicle types with well-defined requirements for inspection, reconditioning and marketing,” he continued. 

Bob McConkey, former NAAA president and member of the standards committee, echoed these points.

“NCS offers more than just a ratings system. This program creates a common method of comparison and transparency in transactions — whether in-lane or online, at any auction, anywhere,” McConkey stressed.

“The program is designed to build trust and confidence throughout the remarketing systems, and across all channels, and all customer groups with NAAA,” he added.

The two-page NCS document and other information about the program can be found on the association’s website at www.naaa.com.