At Minster Auctions, we are committed to providing a professional and comprehensive service to vendors. Whether you are selling a single item or an entire collection, we can guide you through how to sell. Our experienced team of specialists will research and promote your items to ensure they reach the appropriate markets, helping to achieve the best possible results at auction.
We support sellers at every stage of the process, from initial valuation through to post-sale reporting and payment. Our aim is to make selling at auction as straightforward and transparent as possible, while maintaining a high standard of service throughout.
Following the auction, sale results are published on our website, and vendors will receive a post-sale summary via email. This summary outlines the outcome of each lot, including whether items have sold and at what price.
Payments to vendors are typically processed within 21 days of the auction, subject to full receipt of funds from the buyer. As Minster Auctions acts as an agent between buyer and vendor, payment can only be made once cleared funds have been received.
If any lots remain unsold, vendors may choose to re-enter them into a future auction by mutual agreement. Alternatively, unsold items can be collected within seven working days following the auction. After this period, storage charges of £5 per lot, per day will apply.
We aim to manage each stage of the post-sale process efficiently, ensuring vendors are kept informed and supported throughout.
Once your items have been valued by our specialists, you can proceed with consigning them for auction. To enter items, vendors are required to provide valid identification, including photographic proof of full name and address, such as a driving licence or passport, along with a recent utility bill. This is required in accordance with current Anti-Money Laundering Regulations.
When your items are received, you will be issued with a receipt, which you will be asked to sign. This receipt authorises Minster Auctions to offer your items for sale and will outline the terms and conditions of the consignment. It will also include details of the items entered, along with any agreed reserve prices.
Before each auction, vendors will receive a pre-sale notification by email or post. This will confirm the lots entered, including their lot numbers, estimates, and any reserves that have been agreed in advance. This ensures full transparency and allows vendors to stay informed ahead of the sale.
When selling through Minster Auctions, the following charges apply:
These fees are applied to each lot sold and should be considered when consigning items for auction. Our commission structure is designed to reflect the level of service provided, including valuation, cataloguing, marketing, and auction management.
All electrical items must undergo a Portable Appliance Test (PAT) carried out by a qualified electrician prior to arrival at the saleroom. If a valid PAT certificate is not provided, Minster Auctions will arrange testing on your behalf at a charge of £5 per lot, payable by the vendor.
This process helps ensure that electrical goods meet required safety standards before being offered for sale.
Minster Auctions offers a full house clearance service for vendors, estates, and property owners. Saleable items identified during the clearance process will be entered into auction on behalf of the vendor. Alternatively, unsaleable items will be disposed of responsibly.
This service is particularly useful when managing estates or large collections, providing a practical and efficient solution. Charges apply for house clearance services, and further details can be provided upon request.
We also provide a collection service for furniture and larger items. Our team can assist with arranging the removal and transport of goods prior to consignment. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to obtain more information about this service.
To participate in our auctions, you must register with Minster Auctions. Once registered, you can place bids online, submit commission/written bids, or bid by telephone.
Buyers are charged a 20% buyer’s premium on the hammer price of each lot. Additionally, storage charges of £5 per lot per day apply to purchased lots not collected within seven working days of the auction. For sellers, we charge a 16% vendor’s commission on the hammer price of each lot and a £3 entry fee per lot. Other charges, such as PAT testing for electrical items, may also apply. All charges are subject to VAT at the current rate.
If your item remains unsold, you can choose to have it entered into a future auction or collect it within seven working days to avoid storage fees of £5 per lot per day. We aim to achieve the best possible price for your items and will work with you to determine the next steps.
This page provides essential information for vendors considering selling with Minster Auctions. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our website or contact us directly.
Minster Auctions operates with a team of experienced auctioneers and specialists who handle a wide range of items across multiple categories. With a structured and transparent approach to valuations, cataloguing, and sales, we provide vendors with a reliable and professional auction service from start to finish.
If you would like further information about how to sell at auction, arranging a valuation, or discussing a potential consignment, please get in touch with our team. We are always happy to provide advice and guide you through the selling process.
Whether you are selling a single item or a larger collection, our specialists are available to assist and help you achieve the best possible outcome at auction.
