Top Things You Should Not Do at an Auction

Nothing can beat the excitement of attending auctions if you’re a collector or bargain hunter. With so many items to bid on and an exciting atmosphere, an online auction is one of the most enjoyable experiences for anyone.

However, knowing about things you should not do at an auction is essential, especially if it’s your first time participating. With over 200 years of experience in the antiques and collectibles industry, Bodnar’s Auction knows everything about the auction process. 

With a worldwide database of millions of potential buyers, we help you get the most you can on a commission basis. So whether you’re interested in antiques, cars, toy auctions, or several other categories, you can watch our live auction broadcast from the comfort of your home. 

Mistakes to Avoid at an Auction

It’s your first time participating in a live online auction event, so there are thousands of items you won’t want to miss. However, there’s no denying the thrill of a live online auction, with the possibility of discovering an incredible item you’ve always wanted. 

As lifelong collectors passionate about the antiques and collectibles market, our auctioneers are more than just auction staff. They see things from different perspectives, resulting in outstanding deals for the collector and dealer and a profitable sale for the consignor. 

However, knowing some common mistakes to avoid at your first auction is essential. In this way, you can participate in the auction with confidence and satisfaction from your experience.

Not Doing Research

Before placing a bid in an online auction, it’s vital to do some research to understand how much the lot is worth. Once you have a ballpark estimate, you can create a bidding strategy. 

Your bidding strategy should outline how much you’re willing to pay for the lot. Remember that it’s essential not to start with your maximum bid, so evaluate how the auction progresses and place your bid accordingly.

Furthermore, Bodnar’s Auction lets you place a bid before the auction, including the opportunity to increase your bid during the live online auction. You can also set a maximum bid with an additional bid in case of a tie with another bidder.

Joining a Bidding War

One of the most exciting parts of an auction is the tension between bidders vying for an item they all want. While this situation can be fascinating to watch, when you’re involved in the bidding process, it can sweep you into a bidding frenzy.

Joining a bidding war can result in a purchase you wouldn’t otherwise make at your offer price. This outcome can result in issues for the bidder, including a feeling of buyer’s remorse. 

Not Asking Questions

If a lot has caught your attention but doesn’t have the specific information you’re looking for, contact the auction house. Bodnar’s Auction holds private in-person interviews before the day of the sale when you can ask any questions about the auction.  

In addition, we guarantee all items we sell to ensure your satisfaction with your purchase. Finally, we ensure you have the information you need before the auction begins, so you can thoroughly enjoy the experience. 

Not Knowing Shipping Options

When you win at an auction, it’s crucial to know the process for shipping the item to your intended destination. Unfortunately, many auction houses don’t provide shipping and place responsibility on the purchaser for removal and shipping.

However, Bodnar’s Auctions offers item pickup on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday after the sale. In addition, we provide the following options for shipping: 

LiveAuctioneers

This shipping option, offered by LiveAuctioneers, means that they handle shipping. They arrive at our auction house, pack your items, and ship them to you. You receive the amount as part of your invoice.

UPS

The Monmouth Junction UPS store will come to our location, pack your items, and contact you for payment and shipping. We recommend contacting them before bidding to receive a quote on their shipping services.

Bodnar’s In-House

Bodnar’s Auction has an in-house team that packs and ships small/single items. However, if you purchase a large item or more than one item, please choose another option. Once you pay your invoice, we will contact you via Shipping Saint, who will ship your item through UPS or USPS. 

Bid From Home at the Next Bodnar’s Auction!

Now that we’ve covered things you should not do at an auction, you can confidently attend our next online auction. Bodnar’s Auction can help you find an item you’ve always wanted and provide you with everything you need to ship it. 

In contrast to other auction houses that charge between 20-25% buyer’s premium, we only ask for 18% as our buyer’s premium. In addition, Bodnar’s Auction always has live auctions planned for the upcoming weeks, including antique furniture auctions in NJ.