How to Buy

Buying at Lymington Auctions is straightforward, whether you choose to bid in person, online, by telephone or by leaving a commission bid.

1. Register to Bid

Before bidding, you'll need to register with us. Registration can be completed through our website, with Easy Live Auction, by telephone, or in person.

By registering, you'll also have the option to receive updates about forthcoming auctions, catalogues and important announcements.

2. Browse the Catalogue

Our catalogues are available online two to three weeks before each auction.

Each catalogue includes detailed descriptions and photographs to help you make informed bidding decisions. If you require additional information or condition reports on any lot, our team will be pleased to assist before the sale.

3. Choose Your Bidding Method

We offer several convenient ways to bid.

Bid in Person

Experience the excitement of live bidding by attending one of our auctions in person. Our friendly team will be on hand to assist with registration and answer any questions before the sale begins.

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the auction starts to allow time to register and collect your bidder number. Throughout the sale, simply raise your paddle to place a bid, and our auctioneer will guide the bidding process.

Viewing the auction in person also gives you the opportunity to inspect lots beforehand, speak with our specialists, and enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional live auction.

Commission Bids

If you are unable to attend, you may leave a confidential maximum bid with us. Our auctioneers will bid on your behalf, aiming to purchase the lot for the lowest possible price, taking into account any reserve and competing bids.

Commission bids submitted online must be received no later than 30 minutes before the auction begins.

Live Online Bidding

Bid live from anywhere in the world through Easy Live Auction or our website.

A platform fee of 3% of the hammer price or a £3 flat fee applies, depending on your chosen registration method.

Telephone Bidding

For lots with an estimate of £150 or above, we can arrange telephone bidding. A member of our team will call you during the auction and bid according to your instructions.

Advance registration is required.

4. Payment

Successful bidders can pay using:

• Bank Transfer
• Debit Card
• Cash (up to £5,000, subject to current regulations)

Payment should be made promptly following the auction.

5. Collection & Shipping

Purchased lots should be collected within 7 days of the auction.

Storage charges of £5 per lot, per day will apply to items that remain uncollected after this period.

UK Packing & Postage

For smaller items such as jewellery, silver and other suitable lots, we offer an in-house packing and postage service from £20 + VAT.

Parcels are sent via Royal Mail or Parcelforce and are insured for up to £2,500.

Larger & Fragile Items

For furniture, ceramics, glass, paintings and other larger or fragile items, we recommend using our trusted shipping partner:

Bid & Box

Telephone: +44 (0)7871 799913

Email: sales@bidandbox.com

Buyer's Premium

A buyer's premium is payable on all purchases.

• 20% + VAT (24% inclusive of VAT) on the hammer price.
• Live bidding platforms charge an additional online bidding fee where applicable.

Online Platform Fees

• Lymington Auctions Live: 3%
• Easy Live Auction: 3% or £3 flat fee (depending on registration method)

Please remember that storage charges may also apply to any lots not collected within seven days of the auction.