Mayfair Book Auctions, Mayfair, London

We’re open Monday – Friday, 10am – 5:00pm

Please read our FAQ before contacting us

Frequently Asked Questions - Sellers

What is your vendor's commission?

Our vendor’s commission is normally between 12.5% & 15% of the hammer-price, but special rates can be negotiated on higher-value consignments.

How long does it normally take to pay out vendors?

Payment is made 30 days after the auction has closed.

How do you pay vendors?

We normally pay by bank transfer, but alternative arrangements can be made.

How do estimates & reserves work?

We set out the estimate & reserve with the vendor prior to the auction. Estimates are intended as a guideline only. We suggest that no reserves are set on Lots estimated below £300.

Are there any other fees or charges?

We reserve the right to charge illustration fees on a per Lot basis by prior agreement.

We charge no minimum Lot-value or Lotting fees.

Frequently Asked Questions - Buyers

What is your buyer's premium?

Our buyer’s premium for traditional, live auctions is 20% of the hammer price up to £100,000; 15% of the hammer price from £100,001 to £1,000,000 and 12% of the hammer price for sales in excess of £1,000,000. For timed online only auctions the hammer price is subject to an additional 3% surcharge, so buyer’s premium will be 23%.

What other fees are involved?

Storage Charges

Any purchased Lot or Lots not collected within 14 days may be subject to storage charges of up to £3 a day chargeable to the buyer.

VAT

Under current UK regulations, printed books, antique maps, charts and plans are Zero Rated (0%). VAT is added to the buyer’s premium on other items under the Auctioneer’s Margin Scheme and cannot be reclaimed as input VAT, even on items exported from the EU. Additional VAT charges may apply and are marked, by Lot, in our catalogue (see our Terms & Conditions for more information).

How can I pay for my purchases?

Payment can be made via credit or debit card, cheque or bank transfer. Please note that funds will have to have cleared before purchases can be collected or shipped.

Payment is due 7 days after the sale.

How can I bid?

For traditional, live auctions bids can be phoned in or emailed. Bidding can also take place via the third-party online bidding platforms with which we are registered. For timed online-only auctions bids can only currently be accepted via the relevant third-party bidding platform (i.e. the-saleroom.com) and are subject to the conditions thereof.