Simon Charles Auctioneers

Simon Charles sits at the retail end of the auction market: thousands of lots every week coming directly from high street retailers, manufacturers and distributors. It is closer to a permanent clearance channel than to a traditional saleroom, and the categories reflect that — clothing, beauty, phones, sofas, kitchens, toys, cameras and garden goods all run continuously.

What you can buy

• Clothing, footwear and accessories — designer handbags, watches and trainers, plus bulk buys.
• Furniture and home décor, including designer sofas and lighting.
• Fragrance, beauty and cosmetics.
• Phones, laptops and tech, new and refurbished.
• Toys, games and collectibles.
• Catering equipment and machinery.

How the bidding works

Registration is free and quick, with a paid premium membership offered alongside it. Lots close on a timed clock across the week rather than in scheduled sales. Postage is available, which matters here — most of the stock is small enough to send, unlike the industrial end of the market.

What to check before you bid

The house is explicit in its own FAQ about what it is selling: goods arrive "in a range of different conditions from brand new to customer returned or faulty", and it states plainly that it does not always have the chance to test and check them. That is the honest description of a returns pipeline, and it should set your expectations for anything electrical. Read the lot description for the condition grade before bidding, and factor in that a faulty return has no warranty.