How to Calculate the Full Cost of an Auction Purchase | Antique Repair Shop

The amount you bid is only one part of an auction purchase. Premium, tax, bidding-platform fees, packing, transport, insurance, import charges and restoration can materially change the total.

What to do

Use the auction house's current fee table and ask for a written shipping quotation. Tax treatment may differ by lot and destination.

Before you commit

Make a worksheet with a maximum hammer bid that keeps the final landed cost within budget. Leave a contingency for condition discoveries.

Keep the record

Never assume an estimate includes fees or that a courier's basic service includes adequate insurance.

Trusted references

[BADA: Buying antiques](https://www.bada.org/advice/buying-and-selling-antiques/buying-antiques)
[CINOA: Code of Ethics and Charter](https://www.cinoa.org/about/code-of-ethics/)

This guide is general information, not legal, financial, insurance or valuation advice. Terms and consumer rights vary by location and sale method.

Continue learning

Watch practical examinations and restoration work on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).