Guide for Buyers | Collection, Shipment, Export, Storage
Updated on Tue, 16 Apr, 2024 at 05:46 AM
1. COLLECTION FROM SOTHEBY'S MILAN
2. SHIPPING
3. ADDITIONAL INFO REGARDING SHIPPING & DELIVERY IN ONLINE ONLY AUCTIONS
4. EXPORT
1. COLLECTION FROM PALAIS OPPENHEIM
2. SHIPPING
3. EXPORT
NEW YORK
1. LOTS OTHER THAN WINES & SPIRITS
All collections and deliveries for purchased property will be handled by Post Sale Services in coordination with purchasers after the auction. Invoices will be issued to the successful party, which will include total purchase price, payment options, and next steps on delivery. During this time, payment for property is still due as per the Conditions of Business for Buyers. Post Sale Services will be in touch for future collection scheduling or shipping arrangements.
We kindly ask that you arrange collection or shipment for your property within 30 calendar days from the sale date (60 days if you are a Sotheby’s Preferred cardholder). If for some reason you are unable to collect your property within that time frame, we are happy to hold it longer for you, but please note that you will be charged a late collection fee. More information on those fees can be found here.
As a reminder your property cannot be released until payment has been received and cleared.
a. Collection
For any in-person collections at any of our vendor’s premises, you can book your appointment directly online through your Sotheby’s account check out flow: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see the booking option online please alert Post Sale Services of your proposed collection date.
Ensure that all outstanding invoices have been paid for, and that you or your agent have the appropriate photo identification upon arrival.
Post Sale Services: uspostsaleservices@sothebys.com
If you are using your own shipper to collect property, please provide a letter of authorization and instruct your shipper to email their bill of lading to billsoflading@sothebys.com and ensure the correct collection location is specified.
The Bill of Lading must include: the purchaser’s full name, the full delivery address including the street name and number, city and state or city and country, the sale and lot number.
Sotheby’s will contact your shipper within 24 hours of receipt of the Bill of Lading to confirm the date and time that your property can be collected. Property will not be released without this confirmation and your shipper must bring the same Bill of Lading that was faxed to Sotheby’s when collecting.
b. Shipping
Sotheby’s offers a comprehensive shipping service.
Your shipping quote will be available in your Sotheby's account after the sale, depending on eligibility : https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see any shipping offer available online please contact Post Sale Services to request a quote: uspostsaleservices@sothebys.com.
c. Exporting property
The export of certain property from the US or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import requirements or restrictions. It is the buyer's sole responsibility to obtain any necessary export, import, firearm, endangered species or other permits or licenses.
The denial of any license or delay in obtaining such license shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. If you require any further information about the export of your property, please contact Post Sale Services.
d. Important Notice Regarding Packing
As a courtesy to purchasers who come to Sotheby’s to collect property, Sotheby’s will assist in the packing of lots, although Sotheby’s may, in the case of fragile articles, choose not to pack or otherwise handle a purchase. Sotheby’s is unable to remove canvases off stretchers or to roll works on paper. Purchasers are advised to contact an independent painting restorer to pack works in this manner.
e. The Art Loss Register
Sotheby’s, in its commitment to uphold the integrity of the art market and counter the trade in stolen property, employs the Art Loss Register to verify all unique items valued at over US$1,500 against their database of reported stolen or lost objects. Purchasers may obtain a certificate from the Art Loss Register confirming the search conducted. Inquiries regarding these certificates should be directed to the Art Loss Register at First Floor, 63-66 Hatten Garden, London EC1N 8LE, or via email at artloss@artloss.com. It's important to note that while the Art Loss Register endeavors to assist, they do not guarantee the provenance or title of any cataloged item, nor do they assume liability for any resulting losses. This arrangement does not alter the rights and responsibilities outlined in the Conditions of Business for Buyers.
f. Economic Sanctions
The United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union maintain economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries, groups and organisations. There may be restrictions on the import into the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union of certain items originating in sanctioned countries, including Burma, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Russia and Belarus. The purchaser’s inability to import any item into these countries US or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a Lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
2. WINES & SPIRITS
LONDON
1. LOTS OTHER THAN WINES & SPIRITS
Smaller items can normally be collected from New Bond Street, however large items may be sent to Sotheby’s Greenford Park Fine Art Storage Facility. Specifically, items marked with a ‘W’ in the catalogue will be sent to Sotheby’s Greenford Park Fine Art Storage Facility immediately following the sale. If you are in doubt about the location of your purchases, please contact the UK Post Sale Services team prior to collection.
It is Sotheby’s policy to request proof of identity on collection of a lot. Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s.
We kindly ask that you arrange collection or shipment for your property within 30 calendar days from the sale date (60 days if you are a Sotheby’s Preferred cardholder). If for some reason you are unable to collect your property within that time frame, we are happy to hold it longer for you, but please note that you will be charged a late collection fee. More information on those fees can be found here.
Buyers are reminded that Sotheby’s accepts liability for loss or damage to lots for a limited period after the auction. Please refer to Condition 11 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers.
a. Collection
For any in-person collections at any of our vendor’s premises, you can book your appointment directly online through your Sotheby’s account check out flow: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see the booking option online please alert Post Sale Services of your proposed collection date.
Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s, together with settlement of any removal, interest, handling and late collection fees, appropriate identification has been provided and a release note has been produced by our Post Sale Service Group at New Bond Street. Email: ukpostsaleservices@sothebys.com.
New Bond Street
All purchased lots that have not been collected from our New Bond Street premises within 90 calendar days of the live auction will be transferred to Sotheby’s Greenford Park Fine Art Storage Facility.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm (please arrive by 4.30pm)
Address: Sotheby’s Property Collection, 34–35 New Bond Street London, W1A 2AA
Sotheby’s Greenford Park Fine Art Storage Facility
Purchasers must ensure that their payment has been cleared prior to collection and that a release note has been forwarded to Sotheby’s Greenford Park by our Post Sale Service Group at Sotheby’s New Bond Street. Buyers who have established credit arrangements with Sotheby’s may collect purchases prior to payment, although a release note is still required from our Post Sale Service Group as above.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm
Address: Sotheby’s Greenford Park,13 Ockham Drive, Greenford, Middlesex, UB6 0FD
Contact: Tel: +44 (0)20 7293 5600
b. Shipping
Sotheby’s provides a comprehensive shipping service for your convenience.
Your shipping quote will be available in your Sotheby's account after the sale, depending on eligibility: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see any shipping offer available online please contact Post Sale Services to request a quote: ukpostsaleservices@sothebys.com.
When Sotheby's handles shipping property outside the United Kingdom, invoices may be reissued without VAT, where applicable. If you choose to make your own shipping arrangements, VAT may be refundable under specific conditions after the property has been exported.
Upon request, we will send you a shipping quotation for your purchase(s) and request confirmation of your delivery address. Your quotation may also include transit risk cover. If the quotation is accepted, we will promptly organize shipping and dispatch the property. For timed auctions, dispatch will occur no later than thirty (30) days from the closing date, unless agreed otherwise and subject to certain conditions.
Despatch arrangements will be made at the buyer’s expense, and Sotheby’s may apply an administrative fee for this service. Upon delivery, it is important to unpack and inspect shipments for any discrepancies, promptly notifying the relevant party identified in your quotation or accompanying documentation.
c. Additional Information regarding Shipping and Delivery in Online Only Auctions
Sotheby's offers an online shipping costs calculator to help you estimate the expenses associated with having your purchased Lot delivered to your address. This includes VAT, packing, transit insurance costs, and excludes any Artist Resale Royalty levy (ARR). Please be aware that the transit insurance price provided by the calculator does not consider the impact of ARR on the total purchase price.
The calculated shipping cost may vary from the actual amount quoted in the buyer's shipping quote, which includes any applicable ARR. Sotheby’s cannot arrange delivery to locations marked as excluded zones ("Unavailable Destinations") in the shipping costs calculator on the Online Platform.
If delivery to an Unavailable Destination is requested, you may be required to collect the Lot from Sotheby’s storage facility at Greenford or arrange delivery through a third-party carrier. It's important to note that the inability to ship to an Unavailable Destination does not warrant the cancellation of a sale.
d. Export
The export of any lot from the UK or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import licences being granted. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any relevant export or import licence. The denial of any licence required or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of the total amount due.
Sotheby’s, upon request and for an administrative fee, may apply for a licence to export your lot(s) outside the UK. A UK Licence is necessary to move cultural goods valued at or above the relevant UK Licence limits from the UK.
A UK Licence will be required for most items over 50 years of age with a value of over £65,000. The are some exceptions; please refer to Arts Council England’s website for specific information:
https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/sites/default/files/download-file/UK%20OGEL%20Value%20limits.pdf
Sotheby’s recommends that you retain all import and export papers, including licences, as in certain countries you may be required to produce them to governmental authorities.
e. Artist's resale right
Following the UK's implementation of the EU Artist's Resale Right Directive on 14th February 2006, Sotheby's is collecting the royalties due to artists from buyers of lots with a hammer price in excess of 1,000 Euros at the following rates (subject to a maximum royalty payable of 12,500 Euros for any single work each time it is sold)
Portion of the hammer price (in Euros) :
The artist's resale right payable is the aggregate of the amount payable under the above band rates. Calculation of the artist's resale right is based on the Pounds Sterling / Euro reference exchange rate quoted on the date of the sale by the European Central Bank.
f. Endangered Species
Items in the catalog featuring endangered or protected plant or animal materials are designated with the symbol ◉. Examples include elephant ivory, crocodile, select coral types, tortoiseshell, whalebone, rhinoceros horn, and Brazilian rosewood.
Such items may be subject to import restrictions in certain countries or necessitate licenses and certificates for export from some and import into others. The possession of an export license or certificate does not guarantee obtaining its counterpart elsewhere.
Buyers must ascertain and adhere to all applicable regulatory requirements regarding the import and export of such items before bidding, securing all necessary licenses and certificates at their expense.
Inability to export or import these items, or their seizure by a government agency, does not justify delaying payment or canceling a sale.
g. Elephant Ivory
Lots made of, or incorporating elephant ivory (regardless of percentage, age or value) are marked with the symbol ◉ in the catalogue. There are significant additional restrictions on the movement of elephant ivory, amounting for instance to a total ban on the import of African elephant ivory into the United States, an almost total ban on the import into and export from the European Union and specific registration requirements in the UK. Other jurisdictions, such as Hong Kong, also have restrictions in place. It is the buyer’s responsibility to check all the applicable regulatory and licensing requirements relating to the import and export of a lot containing elephant ivory, obtain any required licences and certificates and arrange any testing, such as the ones required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for import into the US, at their own cost. A buyer’s inability to export or import these lots, or a seizure by a government agency, cannot justify a delay in payment or the cancellation of a sale.
h. Economic Sanctions
The United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union maintain economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries, groups and organisations. There may be restrictions on the import into the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union of certain items originating in sanctioned countries, including Burma, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Russia and Belarus. The purchaser’s inability to import any item into these countries US or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a Lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
2. WINES & SPIRITS
a. Wines and spirits charges relating to wines and spirits in bond
Please note that there may be an administration charge made by the warehouse for processing export paperwork for wines and spirits being exported under bond. Any such charge is the sole responsibility of the buyer and is a matter between the warehouse and the buyer or their agent.
b. Release of Lots
Authority for the release of lots to the buyer will be a Release Order signed by Sotheby’s which will be issued only after full payment has been received and appropriate identification has been provided. Supply of a Release Order constitutes delivery by Sotheby’s.
c. Delivery
Standard price shipping is available for deliveries within the United Kingdom (excluding Ireland and Scotland). Prices are quoted per case of wine or spirits; please note that a single bottle of wine or spirit will be considered as a full case. Deliveries will be charged as follows:
- to an address in London: £35 for the first 10 cases, plus £10 for any additional case, plus VAT and Sotheby’s Transit Carecover; and
- to a UK address outside of London (excluding Ireland and Scotland): £45 for the first 10 cases, plus £10 for any additional case, plus VAT and Sotheby’s Transit Care cover.
Price on application quotes are available for all other UK addresses.
Clients may accept a quote by including the delivery charge alongside payment of their wines and spirits invoice.
A lot can only be delivered to one address (it is not possible to split a lot for delivery to more than one address).
Clients (or their agents) must examine all purchases in the presence of the carrier on arrival.
d. Non-arrival, loss, breakage and shortage on collection or delivery
In the event of non-arrival of any purchased property, you must inform Sotheby’s in writing within 30 days of the date on the Release Note unless otherwise mutually agreed in writing. In the event of loss, breakage or shortage in transit, where Sotheby’s has arranged shipment, you must notify Sotheby’s and the carrier in writing as soon as possible but in any event no later than 30 days from delivery of the property to you.
Collected lots must be examined in the presence of a representative of the warehouse on collection. In the event of loss, breakage or shortage, you must immediately notify the warehouse and contact Sotheby’s in writing within three business days from delivery of the lot to you.
e. Deliveries Overseas
Sotheby’s cannot arrange nor take responsibility for shipments to non-UK buyers, but will be pleased to introduce them to a forwarding agent. Where it is necessary to have a licence to import wines or spirits, obtaining of the licence shall be the sole responsibility of the buyer. All agents/shippers, collecting wines and spirits on behalf of buyers for non-UK shipments, must examine consignments in the presence of staff of the warehouse from which wines and spirits are collected. Sotheby’s will not refundany shipping charges under any circumstances.
f. Storage
Sotheby’s will provide storage free of charge (either on their own premises or elsewhere) for purchased lots for thirty days from the date of sale. If by that date collection has not taken place or Sotheby’s has not received full payment together with valid delivery instructions, storage will be charged at the rate of £2.00 per case or part case per week. No lot will be released until all outstanding charges have been paid. Long term, temperature and humidity-controlled storage for your wines and spirits can be arranged through Sotheby’s Wines and Storage. Please contact winestorage@sothebys.com for more information.
g. Release and storage of Casks
The cask lots available for purchase are currently stored in bond at specified locations as detailed in the cataloguing notes corresponding to each lot.
Following the sale, buyers of cask lots must directly liaise with the distillery/warehouse where the cask is stored to arrange for its transfer to a private bond account. Establishing a new bond account involves confirming whether the buyer qualifies as a "Revenue Trader," as per the guidelines provided on www.gov.uk.
Buyers meeting the criteria for Revenue Trader status in the UK must register with HMRC and provide the distillery/warehouse with HMRC approval to own casks Under Bond. Those in the UK who are not Revenue Traders, such as private individuals or companies holding whisky for non-commercial purposes, may open a bond account without HMRC approval.
For non-UK buyers meeting the Revenue Trader criteria, appointing a UK-based Duty Representative approved by HMRC is necessary. Sotheby’s can serve as the Duty Representative for non-UK Revenue Traders. Non-UK buyers who are not Revenue Traders do not need HMRC registration or a Duty Representative to open a bond account.
UK-based Revenue Traders without WOWGR status granted by HMRC should refrain from bidding on cask lots as they are not legally permitted to own them.
It is important to note that liability for loss and damage on casks transfers to the buyer upon the hammer's fall at auction. For further clarification on these requirements, please contact Sotheby’s Wine & Spirits department.
PARIS
1. LOTS OTHER THAN WINES & SPIRITS
Smaller items can normally be collected from Sotheby’s premises in Paris, however large items may be sent to Sotheby’s storage facility in Gennevilliers or to Vulcan Art Services, our third-party warehouse in Gennevilliers. If you are in doubt about the location of your purchases, please contact the Post Sale Services team prior to collection.
It is Sotheby’s policy to request proof of identity on collection of a lot. Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s.
We kindly ask that you arrange collection or shipment for your property within 30 calendar days from the sale date (60 days if you are a Sotheby’s Preferred cardholder). If for some reason you are unable to collect your property within that time frame, we are happy to hold it longer for you, but please note that you will be charged a late collection fee. More information on those fees can be found here.
Buyers are reminded that Sotheby’s accepts liability for loss or damage to lots for a limited period after the auction. Please refer to Condition 11 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers.
a. Collection
Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s, together with settlement of any removal, interest, handling and late collection fees thereon, appropriate identification has been provided and a release note has been produced by our Post Sale Services.
Sotheby’s premises in Paris
Collection by appointment only
For any in-person collections at any of our vendor’s premises, you can book your appointment directly online through My Sotheby’s check out flow: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see the booking option online please alert Post Sale Services of your proposed collection date.
Email: FRpostsaleservices@sothebys.com
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, from 10.00am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm Paris time (please arrive by 5.30pm) .
Address: Sotheby’s France S.A.S., at 6 rue de Duras, 75008 Paris, France
Sotheby’s storage facility in Gennevilliers
Collection by appointment only
For any in-person collections at any of our vendor’s premises, you can book your appointment directly online through My Sotheby’s check out flow: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see the booking option online please alert Post Sale Services of your proposed collection date.
Email: FRpostsaleservices@sothebys.com
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, from 8.30am to 12.30pm and from 1.30pm to 5.30pm Paris time.
Address: Sotheby’s France S.A.S., at Peripark, Bâtiment A5, 99-101 avenue Louis Roche, 92230 Gennevilliers, France
Collection from Vulcan Art Services Storage Facility
Collection by appointment only to be made on Vulcan Art Services’ website: https://www.vulcanfineart.com/booking/sothebys/?lang=en
Purchasers must ensure that their payment has been cleared prior to collection and that a release note has been forwarded to Vulcan Art Services by our Post Sale Services. Buyers who have established credit arrangements with Sotheby’s may collect purchases prior to payment, although a release note is still required from our Post Sale Services as above.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 12.00pm and from 2.00pm to 5.00pm (Friday closed at 4.00pm)
Address: Vulcan Art Services, 135, rue du Fossé Blanc, 92230 Gennevilliers, France
Contact: +33 (0)1 41 47 94 00
b. Shipping
Sotheby’s provides a comprehensive shipping service for your convenience.
Your shipping quote will be available in your Sotheby's account after the sale, depending on eligibility: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see any shipping offer available online please contact Post Sale Services to request a quote: FRpostsaleservices@sothebys.com.
Upon contact, we will provide a shipping quotation and confirm the delivery address. The quotation may include transit risk cover. Once accepted, we will arrange shipping and dispatch the property promptly, typically within thirty (30) days from the closing date of timed auctions, barring exceptional circumstances. This process requires written agreement to the quotation terms, full payment of the invoice and shipping costs, financial release of the property, and any necessary export licenses or certificates. Shipping expenses are borne by the buyer, and an administrative fee may apply. Please note that final packing and shipping costs may differ from the initial quote, but this does not affect the buyer's obligation to complete the purchase and cover all expenses. It is essential to inspect shipments upon delivery and report any discrepancies immediately to the designated party. Should the buyer choose to engage a third party for packing or shipping, Sotheby’s bears no liability for their actions or omissions.
c. Additional Information regarding Shipping and Delivery in Online Only Auctions
Sotheby's online sale platform provides a shipping costs calculator to help you estimate the expenses associated with having your purchased item delivered to your specified address. This calculation includes VAT, packing, and transit insurance costs. It's designed to assist you in determining the appropriate bid amount, factoring in shipping expenses. However, please be aware that the transit insurance price quoted doesn't consider any applicable Artist Resale Royalty levy (ARR) on the total purchase price.
The generated shipping cost from the calculator may vary from the actual amount quoted in the buyer's shipping quote, which encompasses any applicable ARR for the lot. It's important to note that Sotheby’s cannot facilitate delivery to locations designated as excluded zones in the shipping costs calculator, termed "Unavailable Destinations." If delivery is requested to such a destination, Sotheby’s may require you to collect the item from Sotheby’s premises in Paris or Sotheby’s storage facility in Gennevilliers, or Vulcan Art Services’ premises in Gennevilliers, as applicable, or arrange delivery through a third-party carrier. Not being able to ship to an Unavailable Destination doesn't warrant the cancellation of a sale.
d. Export
Exporting or importing goods from France or other countries may require obtaining one or more export or import licenses. It is the buyer's responsibility to secure any necessary licenses. Please note that purchased items must be paid for immediately after the sale. Failure to obtain required licenses or delays in the process do not justify canceling the sale or delaying payment.
Once export formalities are completed, sold items will be delivered to the buyer or shipped to the buyer's designated location at their expense, as per their written instructions.
For exporting cultural goods from the EU, including those subject to Regulation (EC) No 116/2009, an EU License is required. Sotheby’s can assist in obtaining a "French Passport" for exporting items from France to other EU member states. A French Passport is also necessary for moving cultural goods above a certain value within the EU.
In order to export cultural goods valued at or above the designated French Passport threshold but below the EU Licence threshold outside the European Union, it may be imperative to possess a French Passport. The delineation below outlines specific categories and the corresponding thresholds necessitating either an EU licence or a French Passport:
Please be advised that according to French regulation n°2004-709 dated July 16, 2004, amending French regulation n°93-124 dated January 29, 1993, there are specific provisions regarding the delivery of the French passport. These provisions outline different thresholds depending on whether the goods are intended to be sent outside or inside the European Union.
Furthermore, when applying for a certificate of free circulation for property, the issuing authority reserves the right to express its intention to acquire the property within the parameters set by law.
Sotheby’s advises you to retain all import and export documentation, including licenses, as certain countries may require you to present them to governmental authorities.
e. Artist's resale right
Pursuant to applicable laws, Sotheby's collects the royalties due to artists for lots with a hammer price in excess of 750 Euros at the following rates :
The Artist's Resale Right payable is the aggregate of the amount payable under the above rate bands, subject to a maximum royalty payable of 12,500 Euros for any single lot each time it is sold. The maximum royalty payable of 12,500 Euros applies to works sold for 2 million Euros and above.
f. Endangered Species
Items in the catalog featuring endangered or protected plant or animal materials are designated with the symbol ◉. Examples include elephant ivory, crocodile, select coral types, tortoiseshell, whalebone, rhinoceros horn, and Brazilian rosewood.
Such items may be subject to import restrictions in certain countries or necessitate licenses and certificates for export from some and import into others. The possession of an export license or certificate does not guarantee obtaining its counterpart elsewhere.
Buyers must ascertain and adhere to all applicable regulatory requirements regarding the import and export of such items before bidding, securing all necessary licenses and certificates at their expense.
Inability to export or import these items, or their seizure by a government agency, does not justify delaying payment or canceling a sale.
g. Elephant Ivory
Lots made of, or incorporating elephant ivory (regardless of percentage, age or value) are marked with the symbol ◉ in the catalogue. There are significant additional restrictions on the movement of elephant ivory, amounting for instance to a total ban on the import of African elephant ivory into the United States, an almost total ban on the import into and export from the European Union and specific registration requirements in the UK. Other jurisdictions, such as Hong Kong, also have restrictions in place. It is the buyer’s responsibility to check all the applicable regulatory and licensing requirements relating to the import and export of a lot containing elephant ivory, obtain any required licenses and certificates and arrange any testing, such as the ones required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for import into the US, at their own cost. A buyer’s inability to export or import these lots, or a seizure by a government agency, cannot justify a delay in payment or the cancellation of a sale.
h. Economic Sanctions
The US, UK, and EU have economic and trade sanctions against specific foreign countries, groups, and organizations. This means they restrict certain items from being imported into their territories from countries like Burma, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Russia, and Belarus. If a purchaser faces difficulties importing items due to these restrictions, it doesn't justify canceling the sale or delaying payment. If unsure whether an item is subject to these restrictions, check with the specialist department.
2. WINES & SPIRITS
a. Wines and spirits charges relating to wines and spirits in bond
Please note that there may be an administration charge made by the warehouse for processing export paperwork for wines and spirits being exported under bond. Any such charge is the sole responsibility of the buyer and is a matter between the warehouse and the buyer or their agent.
b. Release of Lots
Authority for the release of lots to the buyer will be a Release Order signed by Sotheby’s which will be issued only after full payment has been received and appropriate identification has been provided. Supply of a Release Order constitutes delivery by Sotheby’s.
c. Collection and Delivery
Except if otherwise indicated by way of notices posted on Sotheby’s Online Platforms, in the saleroom or by way of announcement made by the auctioneer, wine and spirits are stored in France at our partner Hillebrand’s storage facilities, in Beaune or in Bordeaux.
Sotheby’s invoice will specify the methods of collection and transport of the lot from their storage location at our partner Hillebrand. Sotheby's will invite you to contact our partner Hillebrand to obtain a quote for the transport or export of your lots and will specify the contact details in the invoice. Any packing, handling and shipping costs and charges (including any costs covering transit insurance) are payable by the buyer to Hillebrand for provision of delivery services of the purchased lot to the buyer.
For further assistance please contact Post Sale Services:
Email: FRpostsaleservices@sothebys.com
d. Storage
Sotheby’s will provide storage free of charge (either on their own premises or elsewhere) for purchased lots for thirty days from the date of sale. If by that date collection has not taken place or Sotheby’s has not received full payment together with valid delivery instructions, storage will be charged at the rate of €10 per lot per month. No lot will be released until all outstanding charges have been paid.
HONG KONG
1. LOTS OTHER THAN WINES, SPIRITS & TEA
We kindly ask that you arrange collection or shipment for your property within 30 calendar days from the sale date (60 days if you are a Sotheby’s Preferred cardholder). If for some reason you are unable to collect your property within that time frame, we are happy to hold it longer for you, but please note that you will be charged a late collection fee. More information on those fees can be found here.
a. Collection
After the auction, property will be kept at either Sotheby’s premises at One Pacific Place or at the premises of Helu-Trans (HK) Pte Ltd.
For any in-person collections at any of our vendor’s premises, you can book your appointment directly online through your Sotheby’s check out flow: https://www.sothebys.com/my-account/invoices.
If you do not see the booking option online please alert Post Sale Services of your proposed collection date: hkpostsaleservices@sothebys.com
Late collection fee will be levied on uncollected lots. Please refer to Condition 10 (Collection and Delivery of Purchases) of the Condition of Business for Buyers.
It is Sotheby’s policy to request proof of identity on collection of a lot. Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative after Sotheby’s has received full and final payment and upon presentation of appropriate government issued photo identification. Collection can be made with at least one business day’s notice, from Monday to Friday 9:30am - 6pm, except public holidays.
b. Shipping
Sotheby’s offers shipping service. Except if otherwise indicated in this Guide for Buyers, Sotheby’s can advise buyers on exporting and shipping property, and arranging delivery. Upon request, we will send you a quotation for shipping your purchase(s). Transit risk insurance may also be included in your quotation. If the quotation is accepted, we will arrange the shipping for you and will despatch the property as soon as possible after receiving your written agreement to the terms of the quotation, any lien or security on release of the property has been released, and receipt of any export licence or certificates that may be required. Shipment will be arranged at the buyer’s expense.
Sotheby’s may charge an administrative fee for such arrangement. Certain countries may impose tax and fees on the importation of your property, e.g. sales tax, import tax, customs duty and clearance fees.
c. Export
The export of any lot from Hong Kong or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import licences being granted. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any relevant export or import licence. The denial of any licence required or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of the total amount due. Sotheby’s, upon request and for an administrative fee, may apply for a licence to export your lot(s) outside Hong Kong. Sotheby’s recommends that you retain all import and export papers, including licences, as in certain countries you may be required to produce them to governmental authorities.
d. Endangered Species
Items made of or incorporating plant or animal material, such as coral, crocodile, ivory, whalebone, tortoiseshell, etc., irrespective of age or value, may require a licence or certificate prior to exportation and require additional licences or certificates upon importation to any country outside Hong Kong. Please note that the ability to obtain an export licence or certificate does not ensure the ability to obtain an import licence or certificate in another country, and vice versa. It is illegal to import African elephant ivory into the United States and there are other restrictions on the importation of ivory into the US under certain US regulations which are designed to protect wildlife conservation and there are significant restrictions amounting to an almost total ban on the import and export of any elephant ivory into the UK and the EU. Sotheby’s suggests that buyers check with their own government regarding wildlife import requirements prior to placing a bid. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any export or import licences and/or certificates as well as any other required documentation (please refer to Condition 3 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers (The Lots)). Please note that Sotheby's is not able to assist buyers with the shipment of any lots containing ivory and/or other restricted materials into the US, the UK and the EU. A buyer's inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or a sale's cancellation.
2. WINES & SPIRITS
a. Wines and Spirits offered lying in Hong Kong
Wines and spirits may be sold and delivered only to persons who are 18 years old. The Buyer warrants that he/she is at least 18 years of age. The Buyer shall be responsible for the shipment of these wines and spirits being received by a person at least 18 years of age or over. Except where otherwise stated, all lots are offered lying in Hong Kong at the warehouse of Crown Wine Cellars Limited (“Crown Wine Cellars”). Please refer to the website of Crown Wine Cellars Limited www.crownwinecellars.com for details.
b. Collection
Collection from Crown Wine Cellars will be by appointment only. At least 7 days’ notice must be given. All clients (or their agents e.g. shippers) must examine all purchases or consignments in the presence of Crown Wine Cellars’ staff at Crown Wine Cellars’ premises from which they are collected. It is both Sotheby’s and Crown Wine Cellars’ policy to request proof of identity on collection of a lot. Lots will be released to you by Crown Wine Cellars or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong. Removal, interest, storage and handling charges will be levied on uncollected lots.
c. Release of Lots
Authority for the release of lots to the Buyer will be a Release Note issued by Sotheby’s to Crown Wine Cellars, which will be issued only after full payment has been received, appropriate identification, and delivery instructions has been provided. Crown Wine Cellars will then pass the Release Note to the Buyer to sign. All enquiries relating to delivery should be directed to Crown Wine Cellars after the Release Note has been issued by Sotheby’s.
d. Hong Kong Delivery
Wines and spirits will be delivered by Crown Wine Cellars in accordance with the Buyer’s instructions in the Delivery Instruction Form. Please note that Sotheby’s does not ship wine or spirits to buyers. Sotheby’s will forward to Crown Wine Cellars all delivery and collection requests received from buyers. On behalf of the Buyer, Crown Wine Cellars will arrange shipping or schedule a collection, subject to applicable law. All shipping and insurance costs and expenses must be pre-paid. A lot can only be delivered to one address, and you cannot split a lot for delivery to more than one addresses.
e. Delivery outside Hong Kong
Sotheby’s and Crown Wine Cellars cannot arrange nor take responsibility for shipments to non-Hong Kong addresses. For shipments outside of Hong Kong, Sotheby’s Wine will be pleased to introduce the purchaser to a forwarding agent. Where it is necessary to have a licence to import wines and spirits, procurement of the licence shall be the sole responsibility of the purchaser. All agents/ shippers collecting wine and spirt on behalf of purchaser for non-Hong Kong shipments must examine consignments in the presence of Crown Wine Cellars’ staff at Crown Wine Cellars’ premises from which they are collected. Sotheby’s will not refund any shipping charges under any circumstances. Please be advised that most countries regulate the shipment of wine and spirits. We urge you to investigate your country’s regulations before bidding or arranging for shipment of alcoholic beverages into your country. Neither Sotheby’s nor Crown Wine Cellars shall as a condition of sale assume any obligation nor bear any responsibility whatsoever for applying for or obtaining any permits or licenses. Therefore, all bidders are strongly advised to investigate the specific requirements to determine the manner in which alcoholic beverages shall be brought into their country so as to comply with all local regulations. Crown Wine Cellars and Sotheby’s make no representation to the legal rights of anyone to ship or import alcoholic beverages into any country. Wines and spirits may be sold and delivered only to persons who are of and above legal age (18 years old or above in Hong Kong).
f. Re-packing of Wines and Spirits for Shipping outside Hong Kong
Sotheby’s and Crown Wine Cellars strongly recommend wines and spirits be re-packed into styrofoam cartons for any shipment outside Hong Kong. While Crown Wine Cellars cannot arrange nor take responsibility for shipments outside Hong Kong, at the Buyer’s request they can re-pack wines and spirits into styrofoam cartons at the rate of HK$160 per case of 6 bottles and HK$320 per case of 12 bottles, with a minimum charge of HK$160. Such fees must be paid in cash upon collection of the wines and spirits by the Buyer or its shipping agent. It is the responsibility of the Buyer or their shipping agent to request this service from Crown Wine Cellars, otherwise wines and spirits may be released in cartons not suitable for international shipping. Neither Sotheby’s nor Crown Wine Cellars take any responsibility for breakage of wines and spirits in during shipment, regardless of whether the wines and spirits have been repacked or not. When requesting wines and spirits to be re-packed, please indicate to Crown Wine Cellars whether you do not want your shipper to collect any original wooden case. Crown Wine Cellars will also release any original wooden case to the shipper, unless otherwise instructed by the Buyer.
g. Export
The export of any lot from Hong Kong or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import licences being granted. It is the Buyer’s responsibility to obtain any relevant export or import licence. The denial of any licence required or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of the total amount due. Sotheby’s recommends that you retain all import and export papers, including licences, as in certain countries you may be required to produce them to governmental authorities.
h. Storage
Complimentary storage for wine and spirit purchased in this sale will be available at Crown Wine Cellars for a period of 30 days following the auction. Should buyers wish to store their wine and spirits with Sotheby’s Wine Storage, Sotheby’s can offer storage at Crown Wine Cellar, which will be subject to the Buyer’s acceptance of the Virtual Cellar Terms of Use, Storage Terms of Use and Auto-Renewal Policy that may be found at https://www.sothebyswine.com/hk/storage.
i. Non-arrival, loss, breakage and shortage
Wines and spirits must be examined in the presence of the carrier on arrival. Loss, breakage and shortage should be notified to both Sotheby’s and Crown Wine Cellars in writing within three days of delivery. In the event of non-arrival, the Buyer must inform both Sotheby’s and Crown Wine Cellars in writing within 21 days of the date of the Release Order.
NOTE: Neither Sotheby’s nor Crown Wine Cellars is responsible for any acts or omission of any shipper, including, without limitation, any packing, shipping, delivery or insurance for purchased lots.
It is Sotheby’s policy to request proof of identity on collection of a lot. Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative after Sotheby’s has received full and final payment and upon presentation of appropriate government issued photo identification. Collection can be made with at least one business days’ notice, from Monday to Friday 9:30am - 6pm, except public holidays.
Removal, storage and handling charges may be levied on uncollected lots. Please refer to Condition 10 (Collection and Delivery of Purchases) of the Condition of Business for Buyers.
3. COLLECTION FOR TEA
You may collect your property from our office. Our office is open from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9.30am and 6.00pm, except public holidays.
4. LOSS OR DAMAGE
Buyers are reminded that Sotheby’s accepts liability for loss or damage to lots for a maximum period of thirty (30) calendar days after the closing of the auction. Please refer to Condition 11 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers (Risk and Responsibility for Lots).
5. GENERAL
All shipments should be unpacked and checked on delivery and any discrepancies notified to the transit insurer or shipping agent immediately. Under no circumstances will substitutes be provided by Sotheby’s, for example in case of breakage or error of description.
For assistance on payment, collection and shipping services, please contact Post Sale Services at hkpostsaleservices@sothebys.com
MILAN
COLLECTION FROM SOTHEBY'S MILAN
Lots will be released to you or your authorised representative when full and cleared payment has been received by Sotheby’s, together with settlement of any removal, interest, handling and late collection fees thereon, appropriate identification has been provided and a release note has been produced by our Post Sale Service Group at Palazzo Serbelloni.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm.
Address: Sotheby’s Property Collection, Sotheby’s Property Collection, Via Alassio 10, 20156 Milano.
Tel: +39 02 3349 6132
Email: : Paolo.Bonvini@Sothebys.com ; bhawani.singh@sothebys.com
SHIPPING
Sotheby’s offers a comprehensive shipping service. Except if otherwise indicated in this Guide, our Shipping Department can advise buyers on exporting and shipping property and arranging delivery.
For further assistance please contact our Shipping Department:
Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 6pm
Tel + 39 02 2950 01
Email: Shipping.Milan@sothebys.com
We will send you a quotation for shipping your purchase(s) and we will ask you to confirm your delivery address. Transit risk cover may also be included in your quotation. If the quotation is accepted, we will arrange the shipping for you and will despatch the property as soon as possible (and in the case of timed auctions, no later than thirty (30) days from the closing date of the relevant timed auction, unless due to circumstances outside of Sotheby’s control or otherwise explicitly agreed) after receiving your written agreement to the terms of the quotation, full payment of the invoice and the shipping costs, financial release of the property and receipt of any export licence or certificates that may be required. Despatch will be arranged at the buyer’s expense. Sotheby’s may charge an administrative fee for arranging the despatch. Final packing and shipping costs may differ from the initial quote which shall not have any effect on your obligation to complete the purchase and be responsible for all expenses, including where you have not requested a pre sale quote from Sotheby's or you have not provided all necessary information.
All shipments should be unpacked and checked on delivery and any discrepancies notified immediately to the party identified in your quotation and/or the accompanying documentation.
If you decide to instruct a third party for packing and/or shipping of any lot, Sotheby’s will not be liable in any event for acts or omissions of such third party.
ADDITIONAL INFO REGARDING SHIPPING & DELIVERY IN ONLINE ONLY AUCTIONS
Please note that Sotheby’s is unable to arrange delivery to certain locations (each, an “Unavailable Destination”). Please contact Sotheby's for a list of Unavailable Destinations. In the event that you request delivery of a Lot to an Unavailable Destination, Sotheby’s reserves the right to require you to collect the Lot from the Sotheby’s storage facility at via Alassio 10, Milano or to arrange delivery of the Lot by a third party carrier. The inability to ship to an Unavailable Destination will not justify the cancellation of a sale.
EXPORT
The export of any lot from the European Union or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import licences being granted. Export of Cultural Works of Art from Italy is subject to Law n. 42 of 22nd January 2004 and subsequent amendments. Export of Cultura l Works of Art out of the European Community is regulated by the European Council Regulation (EC) No. 116/2009 of 18 December 2009.
Sotheby’s, upon request and for an administrative fee, may apply for a licence to export your lot(s) outside Italy and/or the European Union.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any relevant export or import licence. The denial of any licence required or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of the total amount due.
According to DPR (Decreto Presidente Repubblica) 633, if you decide to ship any lot outside the European Union and you want any paid VAT to be refunded to you, then provided that the relevant conditions for such refund are met, you will be required to:required to:
- complete all customs procedures and shipment outside the European Union within 3 months starting from the date of the invoice; and
- ensure that the original customs papers will arrive directly at Sotheby’s Italia within one month after the above mentioned 3 months
A different procedure for VAT refund will apply where you are required to obtain an export licence from the export office of the Ministero della Cultura.
The 3--month period, which begins on the date of the invoice, might be suspended for such a period of time as is necessary to obtain the export licence.
Sotheby’s recommends that you retain all import and export papers, including licences, as in certain countries you may be required to produce them to governmental authorities.
EDANGERED SPECIES
Items made of or incorporating plant or animal material, such as coral, crocodile, ivory, whalebone, tortoiseshell, etc., irrespective of age or value, may require a licence or certificate prior to exportation and require additional licences or certificates upon importation to any country. Please note that the ability to obtain an export licence or certificate does not ensure the ability to obtain an import licence or certificate in another country, and vice versa. It is illegal to import African elephant ivory into the United States and there are other restrictions on the importation of ivory into the US under certain US regulations which are designed to protect wildlife conservation. There are significant restrictions amounting to an almost total ban on the import and export of any elephant ivory into the UK and the EU. Sotheby’s suggests that buyers check with their own government regarding wildlife import requirements prior to placing a bid. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any export or import licences and/or certificates as well as any other required documentation. Please note that Sotheby’s is not able to assist buyers with the shipment of any lots containing ivory and/or other restricted materials into the US, the UK and the EU. A buyer’s inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or a sale’s cancellation.
ECONOMIC SANCTIONS
The United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union maintain economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries, groups and organisations. There may be restrictions on the import into the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union of certain items originating in sanctioned countries, including Burma, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Ru ssia and Belarus. The purchaser’s inability to import any item into these countries US or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a Lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
COLOGNE
COLLECTION FROM PALAIS OPPENHEIM
Unless stated otherwise in the cataloging for a lot, all lots will be made available for collection at our offices located at Palais Oppenheim, Gustav-Heinemann-Ufer 136-138, 50968 Cologne, during normal business hours. Lots must be collected immediately after Sotheby's has received full payment of the purchase price, but no later than 30 days (or 60 days if the Buyer is a Sotheby’s Preferred member) after the end of the relevant auction. Removal, handling and late collection fees may be levied on uncollected lots. We reserve the right to store lots that have not been collected by the 30th day (or 60th day if the Buyer is a Sotheby’s Preferred member) following the auction at the buyer's expense at the premises of our cooperation partner, Tandem Lagerhaus und Kraftverkehr Kunst GmbH. Buyers are reminded that Sotheby's is only liable for loss of or damage to lots for a limited period after the auction. We refer to condition 11 of the general terms and conditions for buyers.
Please note that proof of identity is required to collect a lot. Lots will only be released to you or your authorized representative once full payment has been received by Sotheby's.
SHIPPING
If you would like a lot to be shipped at your own expense, please contact our partner, Tandem Lagerhaus und Kraftverkehr Kunst GmbH. Our post-sale team will be happy to answer your questions about shipping lots and can be reached on +49 221 65032090 or by e-mail to depostsaleservices@sothebys.com.
All shipments should be unpacked and checked upon collection and any discrepancies notified immediately to the party identified in your quotation and/or the accompanying documentation.
EXPORT
The export of any lot from the Germany or import into any other country may be subject to one or more export or import licences being granted. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any relevant export or import licence. The denial of any licence required or delay in obtaining such licence cannot justify the cancellation of the sale or any delay in making payment of the total amount due.
Sotheby’s recommends that you retain all import and export papers, including licences, as in certain countries you may be required to produce them to governmental authorities.
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Items made of or incorporating plant or animal material, such as coral, crocodile, ivory, whalebone, tortoiseshell, etc., irrespective of age or value, may require a licence or certificate prior to exportation and require additional licences or certificates upon importation to any country. Please note that the ability to obtain an export licence or certificate does not ensure the ability to obtain an import licence or certificate in another country, and vice versa.
For example, it is illegal to import African elephant ivory into the US and there are other restrictions on the importation of ivory into the US under certain US regulations which are designed to protect wildlife conservation.
There are significant restrictions amounting to an almost total ban on the import and export of any elephant ivory into the UK and the EU.
Sotheby’s suggests that buyers check with their own government regarding wildlife import requirements prior to placing a bid. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any export or import licences and/or certificates as well as any other required documentation (please refer to Condition 3 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers. Please note that Sotheby’s is not able to assist buyers with the shipment of any Lots containing ivory and/or other restricted materials into the US. A buyer’s inability to export or import these Lots cannot justify a delay in payment or a sale’s cancellation.
ECONOMIC SANCTIONS
The United States, the United Kingdom and European Union maintain economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries, groups and organisations. There may be restrictions on the import into the United States, the United Kingdom and European Union of certain items originating in sanctioned countries, including Burma, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Russia and Belarus. The purchaser’s inability to import any item into the US or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a Lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
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