Buying at Auction

Bidding at one of our auctions couldn’t be easier. Either turn up to the saleroom on the day (live sales only) and fill out one of our simple forms, or register to bid online.

An antique cash register at the Auctioneum saleroom

Ways to bid

  • In person — turn up at our saleroom on the auction day, register your details, and you’re free to bid
  • Online — leave advance bids or bid live on the day whilst watching the live webcam stream
  • Commission bids — leave your maximum bids directly with us by telephone or email in advance of the sale
  • Telephone bids — a member of staff will call you as your lot comes up (not available on lots with a low estimate of £100 or under)

Buyer’s premium

Our buying fees direct are 21% of the hammer price, plus VAT on this fee (25.2% in total). If you bid online, additional platform fees apply. Buyers are asked to check the specific fees before bidding, as occasionally an auction may have different commission rates set.

Viewing

Viewing is usually held the day prior to auction and typically runs from 9am to 5pm; some sales are viewed by appointment only. Please check the information specific to each sale. Unable to view in person? Email or call the saleroom and a member of staff will happily talk to you about the lot or send additional images.

Payment

We accept payment by debit card (in person, no limit; by telephone or email, £500 limit), credit card (£200 limit) or bank transfer (mandatory for purchases over £500). Cheques are not accepted, and we no longer accept cash.

Collection

Collection from our saleroom must take place within 5 working days of the sale date, unless there has been prior agreement. We do not have the capacity to store items for customers for more than this time; uncollected items will be subject to storage charges. See Postage & Delivery for our in-house packing and delivery service.