Bidding in another currency
If an auction prices in pounds but you pay in dollars, euros or yen, the exchange rate changes your real total, and the rate you see online isn't always the rate you'll get.
The rate moves while you're deciding
Suppose your all-in total is £1,030.40 and the rate is 1.35 dollars to the pound. That's $1,391.04. If the rate moves by 3% before you pay, the total shifts by about $42, which is real money on a single lot.
| All-in total in pounds | £1,030.40 |
| Example rate | 1.35 |
| Total in dollars | $1,391.04 |
The rate you see isn't the rate you pay
Online converters show a reference rate. Your bank, card issuer or payment provider applies its own rate, which is usually a little worse, and may add a fee for paying in a foreign currency. Treat any converted figure, including BidCalc's, as a guide, and check what your own card or bank charges.
VAT, duty and import charges
- Some UK auction houses refund UK VAT on lots you export outside the UK, with proof of export. Terms and paperwork vary, so ask before you bid.
- Your own country may charge import VAT, duty or handling on goods arriving from the UK. Check the rules where you live, as they can add a lot.
- Shipping to another country is usually a bigger cost than domestic delivery. See how much delivery adds.
How BidCalc helps
Choose the auction's currency (GBP, USD, EUR, JPY or AUD), then the currency you'll pay in. BidCalc converts your total using a live reference rate and shows whether the rate is live, out of date or offline. If you know the rate your bank will give you, type it into the rate box and the converted total updates. The live rate on the calculator will differ from the example rate above.
Open the £1,030.40 exampleGeneral information only, not tax or financial advice. Auction houses set their own fees and terms, so always check the conditions of sale and confirm the details with the auction house before you bid.