Frequently asked questions
Common questions from bidders and consignors.
For buyers
How do I bid?
All bidding happens through HiBid. Click "Place Bid" on any lot to be taken directly to that item on HiBid, where you can create a free account if you don't already have one. Registration requires a valid credit card on file. Once registered, you can bid on any lot in our current auctions.
When do auctions close?
Our standard weekly auctions close every Tuesday evening starting at 7:30 PM ET, with lots closing in sequence. A bid placed in the final minute automatically extends that lot's close time by 1-2 minutes, so nobody gets sniped at the last second. Vinyl record auctions close Wednesday evenings, and Premier auctions close one lot at a time — check each auction's page for specific timing.
How do I pay?
If you bid through HiBid, your card on file is automatically charged once the auction closes — no extra steps required. Prefer to pay by cash? Contact us before the auction closes to register as a cash bidder and receive a 3% discount on your winning bids.
How do I pick up my items?
After the auction closes, you'll receive a text and email with a scheduling link through Shipping Saint. Use that link to schedule your pickup time. Pickup is available Thursday through Saturday, 12–4 PM, at 418 Hadley Rd, Holly, MI 48442. You have two weeks to pick up your items — so if you bid in back-to-back auctions, you're welcome to combine pickups into a single trip.
Do you offer shipping?
Yes. We ship worldwide with professional in-house packing. After the auction closes, use your scheduling link to select shipping instead of pickup — we'll pack your order and send you a shipping invoice once it's ready to go.
What if there's a problem with an item I won?
We always aim to make things right. All items are carefully cataloged and photographed, but if an item is significantly misrepresented, we're happy to accept a return for a full refund within 3 days of pickup or delivery. Reach out to us directly and we'll take care of it.
Can I preview items before bidding?
Every lot includes detailed photos and a written description, but if you'd like to see something in person before bidding, you're welcome to stop by during our preview hours — Thursday through Saturday, 12–4 PM — or contact us to schedule an appointment.
For sellers
How do I consign with you?
Reach out and let us know your situation — whether it's a single item, a collection, or an entire estate. Sending a few photos is a great way to get started, and if needed, we can schedule a visit to take a closer look. From there we'll talk through whether we're the right fit and how to move forward.
What types of items do you accept?
We work with a wide range of estates and individual items — see our full list on the Consign page, or reach out and we'll let you know if your items are a good fit.
How does online auction compare to a traditional estate sale?
Our online format brings your items in front of bidders from across the globe rather than just a local crowd, often leading to stronger competition and better results — whether you're consigning a single piece or a larger collection. Reach out and we're happy to talk through what makes sense for your situation.
What happens to items that don't sell?
If an item doesn't sell, we'll run it in one additional auction. If it still doesn't sell, we'll reach out to ask whether you'd like to pick it up or have it donated.
Do you offer pickups?
Drop-off at our Holly facility is the easiest path for most consignors. For larger estates where drop-off isn't practical, we can discuss pickup or moving service options — just let us know your situation when you reach out.
How do I get started?
Reach out through our consignment form, give us a call at 248-382-8053, or email info@neilsauctions.com. We'll talk through your situation and go from there.