Knowledge base
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Conditions of Business for Buyers?
What are the ways to buy at Sotheby’s?
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?
Can I see a work in person before a sale?
What are Sotheby's different sales channels?
Can I cancel an order or return items purchased on Buy Now?
What is the “Make an Offer” option on Buy Now items, and how does it work?
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 |