I am a seasoned client of online auctions here in Ohio and have dealt with this company many times in the past and have been fully satisfied with all transactions.
I frequently buy restaurant equipment from many different online auctions for my businesses. DoubleTake, Fast Track, Worley, Advanced, etc.
I've never had 1 single bad experience with each company. Do you know why? You go and inspect the items you wish to purchase and you read the terms & conditions of the sale bills.
It never ceases to amaze me how many people buy equipment of all kinds sight unseen. These auctions aren't walmarts or best buys and everything is sold "as-is". Go and inspect the items for yourself in person. Every auction I've seen always has preview/inspection dates. Test the items for functionality. Review & Print off the terms & conditions. If you can't go to the inspection dates - don't bid on items - it's that simple.
Please let us know what happens with your pending case. While I do feel bad for you to some degree, you did agree to the terms & conditions of the sale and I'm sure your lawyer has informed you that you have no case - which is why you are here - voicing your frustration. If you notice on the particular website in question, once an item leaves the auction, they are not responsible. Shipping/delivery is completely on you. This is actually how all online auctions are. If you have more information regarding the details of your case, please post.
Take it as a "lesson learned the hard way" but don't let online auctions scare you in the future. I've personally saved hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years by purchasing items through auction.