Timed Online Auction

Learn how to bid in a Timed Online Auction

Bidding can open up to one month prior to the auction, with each lot closing at staggered intervals throughout the auction period.

1. What is a Timed Online Auction?

A Timed Online Auction is an auction format where all bidding takes place entirely online over a set period without a live auctioneer. Each auction runs for a specific duration, often several weeks. During this time, bidders can place or update their bids at any point before the lot closes.

2. When does bidding open and close?

Bidding becomes available once the auction is announced and opened. Closing times are assigned only after lot numbers have been allocated and a countdown begins before the lots open on the closing board.

3. How do I know when a lot is closing?

Each lot will be assigned a specific selling period once Lot Numbers are allocated. Please note that these times may vary, so customers are encouraged to monitor them closely.

4. What ways can I place bids on the Timed Auction?

- Live Closing Board
Once the lot appears on the closing board, you can see the next available bid and choose it if you wish to place your bid. If another customer’s maximum pre-bid outbids you, you will be notified and have the opportunity to place a new bid if you wish.

- Set a Maximum Pre-Bid
Locate the item you’re interested in the catalogue and select the grey “Sign in to pre-bid” button. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to sign in, then enter the maximum amount you wish to bid. You will receive confirmation of your bid both on-screen and via email. The system will start your bidding at the lowest possible amount and automatically increase your bid (according to the increment table) up to the maximum limit you set. Your maximum bid remains confidential, and the system will only raise your bid when another bidder places a higher one.

5. Closing time extensions

To maintain a fair auction, lots receiving last-minute bids will have their closing time extended, allowing all bidders a chance to place additional bids before the lot is sold.

Please Note: you will receive an email notification if you are outbid by another pre-bid, however due to the fast-paced nature of live auctions you WILL NOT receive an email notification when outbid during LIVE bidding.

Default Increment Table

• Bids over 0.00 must be in 2.00 increments
• Bids over 10.00 must be in 10.00 increments
• Bids over 100.00 must be in 25.00 increments
• Bids over 500.00 must be in 50.00 increments
• Bids over 1000.00 must be in 100.00 increments
• Bids over 5000.00 must be in 250.00 increments
• Bids over 15000.00 must be in 500.00 increments
• Bids over 50000.00 must be in 1000.00 increments
• Bids over 100000.00 must be in 2500.00 increments