Readable front-of-site summaries for bidding, payment, collection, consignment, commission, unsold goods, and settlement.
Invoices should be paid within 5 days of the auction date. If bidding via LiveAuctioneers and payment is not made directly to Swanley within that window, the buyer authorises Swanley to take full or part payment from the registered card.
Payment may be made by cash, debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. Credit cards and non-UK personal or business debit cards may carry a 3.5% surcharge. International bank transfers may carry a £25 administration fee.
The buyer pays the hammer price plus buyer's premium: 22% on the hammer price up to and including £250,000, and 18% on any amount above £250,000. VAT is charged where applicable.
Catalogue descriptions, estimates, attribution, age, origin, and condition statements are opinions only. Buyers should inspect lots, request condition information, and satisfy themselves before bidding.
Lots should be paid for and collected by 5pm on the Friday following the sale. Storage charges of £2 per lot per day plus VAT may apply after the stated collection window.
Swanley Auction Ltd. acts as the seller's agent only, selling personal property on consignment. Ownership remains with the consignor until a lot is sold.
Consignors should provide accurate descriptions, condition notes, provenance, and relevant details. Swanley may reject unsuitable goods, photograph and catalogue accepted goods, and market them for sale.
The standard sale period is 90 days. Goods may not be withdrawn during that period without Swanley's consent. The auctioneer may reduce an agreed reserve by up to 10% where appropriate.
Commission is charged on the highest winning bid: 30% up to £500, 20% from £500 to £2,499, and 10% from £2,500 and above. Listing, photo, pickup, cleanout, logistics, and unsold fees may apply.
Unsold goods may be reoffered or sold privately. If goods remain unsold at the end of the sale period, the consignor should collect them within 20 days. Net proceeds are normally paid approximately one month after Swanley receives buyer payment.
The consignor is responsible for maintaining insurance cover unless otherwise agreed. The agreement is governed by United Kingdom law and Swanley's liability is limited under the written consignment terms.
These summaries are for front-end guidance. The PDF terms, sale notices, and written consignment agreements apply to actual transactions.
