214 and linked into the consignment node database the consignment node program then generates and prints a bar code 216 that indicated the data record the bar code system is used by the consignment node to maintain an accurate inventory and is a hook for local sales discussed below the posting routine may then exit 218 and return from the posting program by repeating the posting routine of fig3 the consignment node user may build a database of goods for the consignment node market auction and or agent searches fig4 shows the logical block flow diagram of the processes the consignment node may take to execute an auction it is understood that the consignment node user may manually invoke the auction process or may schedule the consignment node to execute the auction process the auction process begins by initializing 250 the data structures records queues and the like to conduct the auction process the connection between the auction process and auction participants is discussed below the auction process gets the first item to be auctioned 252 from the database of goods to be auctioned 254 the consignment node then calculates the opening bid 256 by a predetermined formula such as 50 of the reserve or general solicitation of an opening bid is posted to the auction participants 258 the.