Knowledge base
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Conditions of Business for Buyers?
What are the ways to buy at Sotheby’s?
What are Sotheby's different sales channels?
If I am the winning bidder, what happens next?
Do I need to pay for Sotheby’s brokerage service for Private Sales?
If I buy an item through an online auction, can I check out online?
How can I purchase a Buy Now item?
What is Buy Now?
What is the “Make an Offer” option on Buy Now items, and how does it work?
Can I see a work in person before a sale?
Can I cancel an order or return items purchased on Buy Now?
How long is the purchase process for Private Sales items?
How can I purchase a Private Sales item?
Guide for Buyers | Global
Guide for Buyers | Collection, Shipment, Export, Storage
Guide for Buyers | Symbol Key
Guide for Buyers | Glossary & Important Notices
Guide for Buyers | VAT & Other Tax Information
How do I claim a VAT refund?
How do I sell with Sotheby’s?
Is it free to request an estimate online?
Can I request an estimate even if I’m not ready to sell?
How are estimates determined?
What happens after I submit my item?
How long does it take to receive an estimate?
How far in advance of a sale must I submit my item?
What is the difference between an estimate and a final appraisal of value?
How do I contact a specialist?
Do you provide restoration and servicing for watches?
What taxes do I pay on my purchase?
What payment methods are accepted?
What is the threshold for paying by credit card?
How do I pay if my item is above the credit card threshold?
Can I pay for a Private Sales or Buy Now item with a credit card?
Can a third party pay for my purchase?
Does Sotheby’s offer acquisition financing?
Does Sotheby’s provide separate invoices?
How do scheduled payments work?
How do I pay for my purchases by wire?
Questions about Buy Now Marketplace Shipping and Returns
Can I arrange my own carrier or collect purchases in person?
How long does it take to ship an item?
How soon after the sale closes can I arrange shipment details?
What are the shipping options for Buy Now items?
How do I arrange shipping or collection for wine purchases?
What are late collection fees ?
How do I create a transactional account with Sotheby's?
Where do I update or change my account details?
Where do I find my account number?
Will the purchase information be available to view on My Account after the sale?
How do we protect your data?
Can I delete my personal information?
What personal information do you collect and why?
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| UK |
+44 (0) 20 7293 5000 Mon - Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM GMT+1 |
| US |
+1 212 606 7000 Mon - Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM EST |
| HK |
+852 2524 8121 Mon - Fri, 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM HKT |
| FR |
+33 (0) 1 53 05 53 05 Mon - Fri, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM CEST |
Bidding Enquiries
| London |
+44 (0) 20 7293 5283 |
| New York |
+1 212 606 7000 |
| Hong Kong |
+852 2524 8121 |
| Paris |
+33 (0) 1 53 05 53 48 |
Buy Now Enquiries
| US |
+1 212 606 7430 Mon - Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST |