Frequently Asked Questions

We do not have our own packing and shipping facility and cannot quote or estimate the cost of packing and shipping. However, we work with trusted third-party shippers who can handle your purchases professionally.

For complete shipping information and details, visit our shipping page.

Recommended Shippers:

• The Packengers - thepackengers.com • hellonyc@thepackengers.com (Worldwide shipping)
• The Country Postman - 845-677-1076 • info@countrypostman.com
• UPS Kingston NY - 845-336-4877 • store4541@theupsstore.com
• Gravity Boxes - auctions@gravityboxes.com
• Meticulous Movers - 845-256-7047 • meticulousmovers@live.com

Important: You are solely responsible for shipment and insurance. We are not responsible for damage or loss while your items are in another's custody.

The buyer's premium is an additional percentage added to your winning bid amount. This is standard practice in the auction industry and helps cover our operational costs.

Our Buyer's Premium Structure:

Why the difference?

Third-party bidding platforms charge us fees for their services, which we pass along to maintain transparency. When you bid directly with us, you save 5% on every purchase.

Example:

If you win an item with a hammer price of $100:

• Direct bid: $100 + $25 (25%) = $125 total
• Platform bid: $100 + $30 (30%) = $130 total

If you bid through a third-party platform like LiveAuctioneers or Invaluable, your invoice will show a breakdown of charges for transparency.

Invoice Breakdown:

Why do we show it this way?

We transfer all information from LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable to our invoice system in order to centralize all information and provide you with a comprehensive record. This allows us to:

• Maintain complete transaction records
• Provide transparent fee breakdowns
• Centralize all purchase information
• Simplify your record-keeping

Bottom line: Whether you see it as one 30% charge or broken down as 25% + 5%, the total amount is the same. The breakdown simply shows you exactly where each fee comes from.

We're always interested in quality pieces for our auctions. Our consignment process is straightforward and designed to maximize value for our consigners.

Getting Started:

1. Contact Us: Email photos and basic information about your items
2. Initial Review: We'll provide a preliminary assessment
3. In-Person Evaluation: For promising pieces, we'll arrange a detailed inspection
4. Agreement: If accepted, we'll create a consignment agreement with estimates and terms

What We Look For:

• Fine art and antiques
• Designer jewelry and watches
• Quality furniture and decorative arts
• Collectibles with established markets
• Items with strong provenance or attribution

Learn more about our consignment process and commission rates on our consignment page.

We accept several payment methods to make your purchase convenient:

Accepted Payment Methods:

• Personal/Business Checks: From approved bidders
• Official Bank Checks: From approved bidders (up to $5,000)
• Cash: U.S. currency, not exceeding $10,000 in related payments
• Wire Transfer: Required for high-value purchases
• PayPal/Credit Cards: Accepted

Payment Timeline:

Payment is due within 3 days of invoice sent. Items must be removed within 10 days or storage fees of $20 per lot per day may apply.

Yes! We provide condition reports to help you make informed bidding decisions.

How to Request:

• Contact us with the specific lot number
• Allow time for our specialists to prepare the report
• Reports include detailed information about condition, restoration, and any notable issues

The absence of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is free from wear, imperfections, or effects of age. We encourage you to examine photos carefully and request additional information as needed.

Ways to Bid:

• Online Live: Bid in real-time during the auction
• Absentee Bids: Leave maximum bids in advance
• Phone Bidding: Bid by phone during the sale
• Direct with Gallery: Save 5% on buyer's premium

Registration:

Bidders may be required to provide identification, contact, and credit information. Deposits may be required for high-value lots.

During the Auction:

The highest bidder acknowledged by the auctioneer is the purchaser. The auctioneer may reject or advance bids at their discretion and resolve any disputes by re-opening bidding.

If purchased lots are not removed within 60 days of the auction date, we may:

• Resell the items at our discretion
• Donate the items to charitable organizations
• Dispose of the items as we see fit

Important Notes:

• No refunds or credits will be issued for abandoned items
• The purchaser remains liable for any unpaid balances and accrued storage fees
• Storage fees of $20 per lot per day continue to accumulate

We strongly encourage all buyers to arrange pickup or shipping promptly to avoid these additional costs and complications.