Office furniture and administrative lots
German public authorities and insolvent companies regularly auction desks, cabinets, chairs and pedestals. These lots come from Zoll-Auktion, Justiz-Auktion, liquidations or insolvencies. Before bidding, read the description: Gebrauchsspuren, Kratzer, unvollständig or Abbau durch den Käufer are common mentions. Check dimensions, number of pieces and whether assembly instructions are included. Dismantling and transport are often at your expense. Many lots are Selbstabholung, so plan a suitable vehicle and help. For small items, shipping within Germany or the EU is sometimes offered.
Antique and design furniture
Private auction houses offer antique furniture, design and designer pieces. Buyer's premiums are often higher than with liquidators. German VAT of 19% is added depending on the scheme indicated: TVA en sus, TVA incluse or Differenzbesteuerung. Check photos, dimensions and any defects. An EU professional with a valid VAT number can sometimes buy VAT-free by providing a Gelangensbestätigung, if the seller accepts it. Collection in person is common, especially for bulky items. An auction generally offers neither warranty nor right of withdrawal: read the seller's terms.
Fashion, bags, bicycles and sports
Seizure sales and liquidations also include clothing, branded bags, bicycles and sports equipment. For fashion and bags, check the authenticity stated by the seller and request additional photos if needed. For bicycles, check frame size, wheel condition and whether accessories are included. Small items are sometimes shipped, but many bicycles and bulky items remain Selbstabholung. Buyer's premiums vary by seller. German VAT of 19% applies depending on the scheme. Outside the EU, duties and import VAT may be added.