Shipping & Delivery

Overview

At HeritageBids, shipping is coordinated directly between the buyer and the seller following the conclusion of each auction. We facilitate the introduction and communication between both parties to ensure a smooth and professional delivery experience.

How Shipping Works

Once your payment has been received and confirmed, HeritageBids notifies the seller that the lot is cleared for release. The seller will then contact you directly — or through HeritageBids — to arrange shipping.

Sellers on our platform are experienced collectors, dealers and estates who handle their items with appropriate care. We require all sellers to use reputable shipping services appropriate for the nature and value of the item being shipped.

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are not included in the hammer price or buyer’s premium. They are determined after the auction based on:

• The size and weight of the item
• The buyer’s delivery address
• The shipping method selected
• Any crating, packing or special handling required

Shipping costs will be communicated to you after the sale and are payable directly to the seller or their designated shipper.

Packaging and Handling

Sellers are responsible for ensuring that all items are packaged appropriately for safe transit. For antique rugs and carpets, this typically means professional rolling, wrapping and crating. For fine art and fragile items, custom crating and foam padding are standard.

If you have specific packaging requirements or concerns, please communicate them to us at the time of purchase and we will relay them to the seller.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that all buyers request full insurance coverage for their shipment. Insurance protects you in the event of loss or damage during transit.

Sellers are expected to offer insured shipping as standard. If you have not received confirmation of insurance coverage for your shipment, please contact us immediately at [email protected].

Delivery Timelines

Delivery timelines vary depending on:

• The seller’s location
• Your delivery address
• The shipping method and carrier used
• Customs clearance for international shipments

As a general guide:

• Domestic shipments within the United States typically take 5 to 15 business days from payment confirmation
• International shipments typically take 2 to 6 weeks depending on the destination and customs requirements

These are estimates only. HeritageBids does not guarantee delivery timelines as they are subject to factors outside our control.

International Shipping

HeritageBids welcomes international buyers. If you are located outside the United States, please be aware of the following:

• Import duties, customs fees and local taxes are the buyer’s responsibility and are not included in the purchase price
• Certain items — including antique rugs and works of art — may be subject to import restrictions in some countries. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify that the item can be legally imported before bidding
• International shipments may require additional documentation including export certificates, CITES permits (for items containing certain natural materials) or certificates of authenticity
• HeritageBids will assist in providing any documentation we have available, but cannot guarantee compliance with the import regulations of every country

What to Do When Your Item Arrives

When your item is delivered, we recommend the following:

• Inspect the packaging carefully before signing for the delivery
• If the packaging shows signs of damage, note this with the carrier before signing
• Unpack the item carefully and inspect it thoroughly
• Photograph any damage before moving or further unpacking the item
• Contact us immediately at [email protected] if you have any concerns

Damaged Items

In the rare event that an item arrives damaged, contact us within 48 hours of delivery with:

• Photographs of the damaged packaging
• Photographs of the damaged item
• A written description of the damage

We will work with you and the seller to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. If the shipment was insured, we will assist in filing an insurance claim on your behalf.

Collection in Person

In some cases, buyers may be able to arrange collection of their purchase directly from the seller. If you are interested in collecting in person, please contact us after the auction and we will coordinate with the seller on your behalf.

Contact

For any questions about shipping or delivery of your purchase, please contact our team at [email protected]. We respond to all inquiries within 2 business days.