Helping Your Auction Purchase Run Smoothly             

Auctions can be a hectic environment, so we’ve put together some points for you to consider before, during and after the sale day. So, whether you’re a seasoned bidder or a relative newcomer to the world of auctions, read on for a few handy hints. 

Research what you want to bid on before the auction begins. Sale days start at 10am, but we’re open from 8:30am. Get in early and have a look at the catalogue for the day, or just go online and have a look through the website. Items will be sold in order of lot number so you can keep track of which items are coming up.

If you can’t make it to the sale, you can always follow the auction on our website. If you can’t do either, you can leave a commission bid and we’ll bid on your behalf. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered for every eventuality.

It’s also worth remembering that we regularly host online only sales on our website. Typically, online sales feature higher value equipment, and items that are being sold from the vendors site. If you’re bidding in an online auction, you’ll need to register. Registration information is available here.

Online sales typically last at least a week, giving you more than enough time to get your bids in. You can also enter the maximum amount you are willing to pay and the system will bid on your behalf. Please keep an eye on your email, just in case you end up being outbid. Don’t worry about someone outbidding just seconds before the auction closes as the system will extend the finishing time to allow others to get their bids in too.

Before you win your item, it really is worth thinking how you’re going to transport it to where you need it. Medical, catering and even some general items are usually rather large and won’t just simply fit in the back of a car. Items need to be collected within five working days, so it’s worth having transport planning in mind while you’re bidding for an item. Items held by Hilditch for more than five working days will start to incur storage costs. We have a list of shipping companies on our website for those who don’t have a contact already.

Now you should be auction ready. Remember, planning is everything.