A timed auction is an auction that runs without a live auctioneer. There is a set time window in which the auction will take place. Once this amount of time has ended, no more bids will be accepted, and the highest bidder will win the lot. If a bid is placed within 5 minutes of the end of the auction, the end time for that lot will be extended by 5 minutes to prevent ‘sniping’.

Much like in a live auction, some lots will have reserves and will not be sold unless this reserve has been met.

At the end of a timed auction, bidding will close on Lots starting from Lot 1 and sequentially closing with the last Lot to close being the last Lot of the sale. This is why you will see that an auction will close, for example, ‘From 19:00’. Closing the auction sequentially allows buyers, if they are bidding on multiple items, to increase their maximum bids at the end of the sale without missing out on Lots.

marketplace@dawsons’ auctions are hosted by EasyLive who’s Autobid system allows you to place your maximum bid for an item and will bid on your behalf up to that maximum, ensuring that you win the Lot for as little as possible. If your maximum bid is exceeded by another bidder, you can increase this at any time.

marketplace@dawsons does have an in-house delivery service. If you are successful in winning a lot, you will have the option on your invoice to add shipping. If you chose to do this your item will be dispatched via Royal Mail’s Special Delivery service. You will be provided with a tracking number and your item will be insured for loss up to the value of £2,500. Please bear in mind that some items due to their size or fragility, will not be eligible, however we can provide details of couriers that can help.

Like many other auctions, payments are due to vendors one month after the sale ends. So, for example, if a sale ends on 1^st June payments will begin to be made on 1^st July or the closest subsequent working day. Please do bear in mind that whilst we endeavour to pay our vendors as quickly as reasonably possible, it can sometimes take time for payments to clear.

As a timed online auction, marketplace@dawsons does not offer open viewing days of items in a sale. If you require further information on the condition of an item or would like to know more about it, our team will be more than happy to provide any details or additional images needed. If you still feel that you would benefit seeing the item in person, please get in touch at marketplace@dawsonsauctions.co.uk as you will need to discuss the possibility of booking an appointment.