Buying and selling, step by step.
Two short walkthroughs and the questions people ask most.
A.
Buying
Browse here, bid on HiBid.
Browse the overview
Each auction page shows dates, selected lots and the event terms.
Go to the HiBid catalog
Register for that auction on HiBid and wait for approval before bidding closes.
Read the terms and set a budget
Include buyer premium, tax and shipping or pickup in your limit.
Pay your invoice
HiBid issues the invoice. Pay by the deadline with an accepted method.
Pickup or shipping
Collect in the pickup window or arrange shipping as the terms describe.
B.
Selling
A conversation, then a written agreement, then cataloging and auction.
Send an inquiry
Describe the piece or collection. Photos are optional.
Agree terms in writing
Your share, charges, reserves and settlement, settled before anything moves.
Intake and storage
Items are received and recorded against the agreed inventory.
Research and catalog
Each lot is photographed and described with its evidence kept clear.
Settlement
Paid under your agreement once results are final and buyer payment clears.
Asked often
Buyer questions
Where do I bid?
On HiBid. Each auction overview here links to its HiBid catalog, where you register and bid.
Is there a buyer premium?
Usually, yes. The rate is set in each auction's event terms and is added to the hammer price on your invoice.
How should I budget?
Start from what you're willing to spend in total, then take off shipping or travel, premium and tax. What's left is your maximum bid.
Can I ask about a lot before bidding?
Yes, and please do it early. Send us a message with the auction name and lot number.
What does a condition note actually promise?
It describes what was observed. It isn't a warranty, and a missing note doesn't mean an item is flawless. More on reading descriptions.
How do I receive what I win?
By pickup or shipping, as set out in that auction's terms. Items are released once payment clears.
Seller questions
Does an inquiry mean you'll accept my items?
No. An inquiry starts a conversation. Nothing is accepted until terms are agreed in writing.
Will you tell me what something is worth?
We don't quote prices or estimates from an inquiry. If we go ahead, research comes as part of cataloging.
Do I need photographs?
No. They help, but a written description is enough to begin. Photo tips.
What share of the sale do consignors receive?
A share of the hammer price set in your written agreement. How the numbers work.
I've inherited a collection. Where do I start?
Keep it together, don't clean anything, and make a simple list. Our guide walks through it.
How does settlement work?
After the auction, your share is calculated from the official results and paid once buyers' payments clear, as your agreement sets out.
Still have a question?
Ask us anything about a sale, a lot or selling with us.