Frequently Asked Questions
When will I get paid for items I sell at auction?
Thiel collects all payments and settles the auction in the two weeks following the auction, checks and settlement report are guaranteed to be mailed within 30 days, but are usually mailed within 14 days of the final auction day.
How do I sell an item at auction?
Consigning at Thiel’s auctions is as easy as just dropping your items off. Contracting can be done on-site or online and then we take it from there. Once items arrive, we photograph, describe and take care of everything that needs to be done to sell your item.
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What does "register to bid" mean?
In order to bid at the auction, you need a bidder’s number. That unique number is assigned to you, so anything you bid on and win at the auction will be identified by your number. To get your bidder’s number we need some information about who you are, so we’ll scan your driver’s license (name, address & driver’s license # is all we get), and take your phone number and email address (email is optional, but see Absentee or Telephone Bid for why it’s a good idea). Then we give you a bidder’s number card. It’s that simple and painless. And we NEVER share your info with anyone.
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How do I bid?
Bidding at an auction can be both an exciting and intimidating experience. Whether you're bidding online or in person, the goal is the same: to outbid the competition and win the auction. Before you start bidding, it's important to do your research and familiarize yourself with the auction rules and regulations. This will help you understand the process and make informed decisions throughout the auction. Once the bidding begins, get ready to make quick decisions and be prepared to outbid the last bid in order to win. Good luck
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If I won the auction what do I do now?
Congratulations! If your item is small, the auction staff will probably bring it right out and hand it to you. Larger pieces of furniture will be moved to the side away from where they’re selling. One rule applies to both scenarios: you are responsible for your items from the moment the auctioneer says “SOLD” and calls out your bidder number.
If there are still items you want to bid on, keep bidding. If you’re all finished for the night, make your way back to the office, and we’ll have your bill ready for you.
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How do I know that my items won’t get mixed up with other consignors’ items or forgotten?
Thiel practices strict inventory control and loss prevention procedures. When you contract, you are assigned a consignor code in our inventory control system. That consignor code is physically applied to the items you bring during the receiving process. Once completely inventoried, all items are audited to make sure that you get paid for all items you have brought to the sale.
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What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept Cash, personal check, VISA, and MasterCard.
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How do I arrange shipment of items to Thiel & Thiel?
Thiel will assist with transportation of your items to our location, if you do not have your own transportation. Costs will vary depending on the size of the load, and distance and permitting required.
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What happens to my items if they do not sell?
If your item does not sell, you are required to come and pick that item up on the scheduled pick-up days for that auction. We do not dispose of these items for you.
What if I have a titled item?
It needs to be titled in the person’s name that is selling it. If there is a lien listed, a lien release form is needed
along with the title. You must have your title at the time of consignment.
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Do I need to keep insurance on my item?
Yes, if you are not willing to take the risk of loss. The risk of loss on consignments remains with the seller until
it is sold.
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