Where office furniture lots come from
Lots come mainly from public authorities, local government and companies in insolvency or liquidation. You will find desks, cabinets, seating and storage, often in bulk. Private auction houses also offer antique and designer furniture, piece by piece. Public platforms such as Zoll-Auktion, Justiz-Auktion or VEBEG sell decommissioned or seized goods, with no buyer's premium, but with conditions specific to each seller. Always read the German description: Gebrauchsspuren, Kratzer and unvollständig indicate the actual condition. For seized fashion and bags, check the authenticity stated by the seller.
Checks before bidding
Before bidding, examine the photos and the lot details: dimensions, materials, whether keys, locks or instructions are included. Look out for Selbstabholung, Abbau durch den Käufer and Originalverpackung, as they affect logistics. With private sellers, buyer's premiums generally range from 15 to 20% at liquidators and industrial platforms, and often 25 to 33% at art auction houses. German VAT of 19% is added according to the stated regime. An auction generally offers neither warranty nor right of withdrawal: read the seller's terms.
Collection, delivery and formalities
Office furniture is often collection only, especially bulky items. Arrange a suitable vehicle, help and the tools needed for dismantling if the seller requires it. Some sellers ship within Germany or the EU, especially for small items. Between Germany and another EU country, no customs duty applies. Delivery outside the EU, to Switzerland, the UK or Norway, incurs import duties and VAT. An EU business with a valid VAT identification number can often buy free of German VAT by providing proof of transport, depending on the seller.