Picked up a brooch from Sothebys after a successful bid but found the overall experience wanting
They were very disorganized - my initial outreach, to inquire about collection logistics (picking it up versus shipping), required multiple emails before someone finally acknowledged my request & I was advised picking it up would the more cost-effective option.....since I was visiting London in a couple of months, we agreed I would stop by
I provided the date I would be there to collect my item and they requested my departure documentation, about 6 weeks in advance, so all the export paperwork would be ready.....you see where this is going.....
They were not prepared, at all. They couldn't find me in their system, then they couldn't locate the item. The paperwork had not even been started & it took over 2 HOURS to prepare....... when I sent them everything, as requested, 6 weeks prior and I had emails assuring me everything would be ready
At one point, I was told they weren't expecting me until 12 days later - which would have been my departure date FROM GERMANY. Again, simply reading our correspondence would have shown that you acknowledged the date I stated I would be there to collect the item - maybe a calendar entry on your part would solve these mix-ups in the future?
The paperwork I was provided forced me to get TWO sets of customs stamps leaving the UK and then the EU, and they were also bold enough to charge a £90 "administration fee" for refunding MY VAT!
And this not to mention the buyer's premium they charge (which everyone does so can't fault there) but they also charged another £60 for storage, for not picking up my item within 30 days. Are you serious?!
I love Sothebys & the items you offer for auction but I will definitely think twice before purchasing from this London location. All the extra fees and disorganization may prove the experience unworthy - I've seen better! read more