As of May 20, 2024, Sotheby’s has a uniform seller’s commission rate of 10% on the first $500,000 of the hammer price per lot, across all categories. We do not charge a seller’s commission on the portion of the hammer price above $500,000 per lot. This eliminates the complexity associated with varying rates and, instead, grants every client access to consistent and unambiguous pricing.

Recognizing the need for different terms on high-value consignments, Sotheby’s has waived the seller’s commission for consignments valued above $5 million low estimate. The idea is to prioritize transparency and simplicity for our clients, and to fully focus on realizing the highest value based on our unparalleled expertise, vast reach to clients around the world, and global selling strategies.

Lastly, for consignments with a total low estimate in excess of $20 million and up to and including $50 million, sellers receive 40% of Sotheby’s Buyer’s Premium in addition to the hammer price.

Sotheby’s has a success fee of 2% on all lots where the hammer price exceeds the high estimate.

All terms outlined above apply to lots that do not have a guarantee, which account for the bulk of Sotheby’s auction business. For guaranteed works, Sotheby’s has a fixed guarantee commitment fee: 4% of the guarantee amount, chargeable to the seller.

This standardized fee structure applies to all Sotheby’s auctions globally, excluding cars, real estate, wine, and spirits. 

A rate chart for all sale locations and currencies is published here and further information about our fee structures can be found here.

If you have submitted an item and have questions about your consignment terms, you can contact our specialists using our message function on the Seller Portal.