House Clearance Auctions

Understand Auction Collection Costs Upfront

If an auction house arranges to collect your items, they typically send two staff members in a van, charging around £60 to £80 per hour for labour and transport. If the round trip and loading take three hours, you could face a collection charge of £240 plus VAT before your items even enter the auction. Always clarify these costs in advance to avoid unexpected fees.

Auction Houses Select Only Saleable Items

Auction houses will only accept items they believe are likely to sell, meaning you'll still need to arrange clearance for anything they reject. Electrical goods must be PAT tested or Gas Safe tested, and upholstered items require the correct fire safety labels. However, many auction houses are currently reluctant to take soft furnishings at all, regardless of condition or compliance. 

Be Aware of Auction Fees and Unsold Items

If your items sell at auction, expect a seller’s premium of around 15% to 20% plus VAT, which is deducted from the final sale price. If they don’t sell, you may still incur a “no sale” fee. Additionally, you’ll be responsible for collecting and disposing of any unsold items, or paying the auction house to handle disposal on your behalf, these costs can add up . 

6: Donate Your Items > > >

7: Dispose Of Your Items > > >

1: Search The Property > > >

2: Reduce The Clutter > > >

3: Tackle The Bric A Brac > > >

4: Recycle Your Items > > >