Auction Seller Fees, Explained Simply and Honestly
You should never have to guess what selling costs. This page explains our auction seller fees simply and honestly, before you commit to anything.
- ✓Our fees are very straightforward
- ✓Your valuer confirms every cost in writing before any item is entered
- ✓No small print, no surprises
How much does it cost to sell at auction?
It is the first question most sellers ask, and it deserves a straight answer. Auction house fees for sellers can look confusing. Ours are not.
- First £5,000 each lot makes15% + VAT
- Next £15,00012.5% + VAT
- Anything above £20,00010% + VAT
Vendor commission is our fee for selling your item. It is a share of the hammer price, which is the final price when the auctioneer brings the hammer down. The commission is deducted after the sale, and you receive the rest. Auction commission rates in the UK vary from house to house, so we always put ours in writing first.
This includes research and describing by one of our experienced valuers, professional photographs taken, catalogued and published into one of our auctions, and any newsletters and social media we may choose to do.
Should an item require a CITES certificate, we charge £40 + VAT.
A loss and damage warranty of 1.5% of the hammer price, with a minimum of £1.50 + VAT per lot.
This protects your items while they are in our care, from arrival to sale day.
Everything in writing when you consign
When you consign for auction, your valuer sets out all costs in writing. You will never find a fee you did not agree to. That is a promise.
What your fee pays for- ✓Professional photography of every lot
- ✓Expert cataloguing and honest descriptions
- ✓Marketing to bidders all over the world
- ✓Safe storage and careful handling
- ✓Prompt payment after the sale
Every lot photographed
Photographed Catalogued Sold“I rarely post reviews but had to regarding James and the Bespoke Auctions team. My experience was wonderful and stress-free from beginning to end.”
Erin Rotolo Google review
Frequently asked questions
Is a pre-sale auction valuation complimentary?
Yes. If you are thinking of selling at auction, your pre-sale auction valuation is complimentary.
What happens at a valuation?
A valuer looks at your items with you, gives you an honest estimate and answers your questions. It is friendly and relaxed, and it takes place at our offices in the Cotswolds. Alternatively, you can send us some images and we will reply via email.
What is a reserve?
A reserve is the lowest price you will accept for your item. We agree it with you before the auction, and your item cannot sell below it. There is a 10% “auctioneer’s discretion” on sale day.
How much is vendor commission?
15% + VAT on the first £5,000 each lot makes, then 12.5% + VAT on the next £15,000, and 10% + VAT on anything above £20,000. Your valuer will confirm your exact rate in writing before you decide anything.
When will I be paid after the sale?
You are paid 28 working days after the sale, along with a seller statement showing exactly how the total was worked out.
What happens if my item does not sell?
Nothing scary. Your valuer will talk you through your options, such as a later auction or a fresh look at the reserve. Any costs that could apply are explained in writing when you consign.
How will my items be photographed and marketed?
Every lot is photographed professionally and listed in our auction catalogue. Bidders from all over the world can bid on our online platform. We also send out several newsletters to clients informing them of what is under the hammer.
Can you collect my items?
Yes. We are the auction house that comes to you, collecting across England, Scotland and Wales.
Do you value items for Probate or Insurance?
Yes, we are happy to help with Probate and Insurance valuations, fees apply. Please see Probate & Insurance Valuations.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. Everything is agreed in writing when you consign your items for auction. These are deducted from the auction proceeds, so there are no upfront charges.
Know exactly where you stand
Start with a complimentary pre-sale auction valuation, every cost is in writing when you consign. We make selling something at auction feel friendly and simple. Questions about fees? Call us on 01386 335949, or read How Selling Works.
Complimentary pre-sale valuations Prompt payment after the sale