In search of ideas for auction house premiums
In search of ideas for auction house premiums
As buyer’s premiums increase at auction houses — not just in the stamp world — I wonder if there might be different ideas out there.
Many philatelic auction houses charge a 20 percent buyer’s premium, and some offer a small percentage off if payment is received promptly.
But last week, a collector friend told me about an antiques auction house that went a little bit further with a pay and pick-up method.
The auction house went the standard route of hammer price plus a 15 percent premium, but if the lots are picked up in person the day of the auction, the buyer’s premium dropped to a minimal percentage.
I do understand that tax would be placed on the in-person purchase, but with the South Dakota v.
Wayfair ruling that allows states to require an out-of-state seller to collect and remit sales tax on sales to in-state consumers, that will eventually become the expected situation in the future.
I can see potential cost savings here for the collectors and the Stampsauction house.
A collector could either attend in person or send an agent to save a few dollars, especially on higher ticket items.
After a sale, the auction house usually has a lot of fulfillment of the purchases, and money could be saved in labor, supplies and shipping costs.
For either a future Philatelic Foreword column or Letters to Forever Stamp Store’s, let me know your thoughts on the subject. Email [email protected] send a letter to Forever Stamp Store’s Stamp News, Box 4129, Sidney, OH 45365.
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USPS specialist based in Los Angeles with extensive experience in postal operations and customer service. Certified in mail management and trained at the USPS Business Mail Academy, she offers reliable guidance on Forever Stamps and practical mailing solutions.
