This article is for buyers. It explains what happens once the countdown reaches zero: the possible outcomes, the designation of the buyer, then the invoicing, payment, and collection steps.
Summary
- At closing, bidding stops and the outcome is determined automatically.
- If you win the item, you're notified by email and an invoice is issued.
- You pay for your purchase, then arrange its collection with the seller.
- A sale can also end without an award: reserve price not met, no bids, or the seller declines.
1. The possible outcomes
Outcome | What it means |
The item is awarded to you | You were the top bidder and the sale conditions are met. Your purchase is registered. |
You were outbid | Another participant offered more. No follow-up for you; the item disappears from your ongoing bids. |
The reserve price isn't met | The seller isn't required to sell. They may still accept your offer: you'll then be notified by email. |
No bids were placed | The item remains unsold. The seller can choose to relist it. |
When the reserve price isn't met, the seller's decision isn't immediate. Give it a few days before worrying, and keep an eye on your emails.
2. You won the item: what now?
- Step 1 — You receive confirmation
An email tells you that the item has been awarded to you, with the winning amount and instructions to follow.
- Step 2 — Your invoice is issued
The invoice is generated automatically as soon as the item is awarded. It includes your bid amount, applicable fees, and VAT if relevant. You'll find it in Purchase invoices, in your personal space.
- Step 3 — You pay for your purchase
Payment is made by card or bank transfer, according to the terms shown on your invoice. Collection is only possible once payment has been received.
- Step 4 — You arrange collection
Once payment is confirmed, the collection information is shared with you: exact address, time slots, and on-site contact. A collection code is also sent to you: you'll be asked for it when the item is handed over.
Winning a bid constitutes a commitment to purchase. If payment isn't made within the deadline, your security deposit may be charged in accordance with the general terms and conditions of sale, and the item may be relisted.
3. The timeline to plan for
Moment | What you need to do |
Right after closing | Watch your emails and your personal space. |
Upon receiving the invoice | Pay within the stated deadline. |
After payment is confirmed | Get in touch to arrange a collection time. |
On the day of collection | Check the item, then share your collection code once you have it in hand. |
4. If you didn't win the item
- No action is needed on your part.
- Your security deposit, if any, remains in place until it's automatically released.
- The item may be relisted: create an alert to be notified if a similar item is published.
Check the results of completed sales from your bids: they're an excellent price reference for your future participation.
Our tips
- Check your emails, including your spam folder, in the hours following a closing.
- Arrange transport even before the sale ends: collection windows are limited.
- Pay promptly: it's the condition for accessing the collection information.
- Keep your collection code and only share it after you've collected the item.
Frequently asked questions
When am I notified of the result?
By email, shortly after closing. The result is also visible on the listing and in your personal space.
Can I back out of my purchase?
No. A won bid is a firm commitment to purchase.
When do I receive my invoice?
It's issued as soon as the item is awarded and available in your purchase invoices.
When can I come collect the item?
Once payment is confirmed. The collection information is then shared with you.
The seller declined the sale, what happens?
No purchase is registered and you have nothing to pay. You're notified by email.
Is my security deposit released after the sale?
It's released automatically after 30 days. An early release is possible if you're not the top bidder on any item and have no unpaid invoices.