Lawrencesbletchingley Reviews 7

Tried to charge me 3 x £28 = £84 to ship 3 small items. After complaining they reduced this to £46! My local (reputable) auction house would have charged £7 for the first item and £1 for each additional item, i.e. £10. Be aware that by the time you have paid their exorbitant shipping charges and their high commission charge, you could be paying double the bid price. It's a pity that the Auction industry does not appear to have a controlling body to discipline and/or rid the industry of disreputable members like these. AVOID!

I spoke to these auctioneers a few weeks ago and was told they would visit to look at my various items but I needed to get them down from the loft. I had to wait for my daughter and son-in-law to do this for me as I couldn't do it myself. I then phoned again to arrange a visit but was told that, despite what their website says, they will only visit to look at large items such as furniture. I was asked to bring the items to their premises. I told the lady I would find this difficult as there is just too much and I would need to do 2 trips. Also I am in my 70s now and loading/unloading the car would be a struggle for me. I got the distinct impression that the lady I spoke to wasn't interested in the sort of things I have and thought they were probably worthless so not much money in it for Lawrence's. Without looking at anything how can they be sure? I think I'll take my business elsewhere and the firm should certainly make it clear on their website that they do not unconditionally offer a free visit to everyone.

I bought a couple of paintings and asked for a quote for shipping. Before I had a quote the items were shipped to me and I was charged over £50. Lawrences refused to admit they had made any mistake or take any responsibility. At no point did I ask them to ship the paintings.

Excellent, very smooth transaction. Perfect condition report and helpful advice on bidding, Fast despatch of item and very secure packing. I'm 100% satisfied.

Lawrence was polite, very efficient, removed all unwanted equipment and cabling. He also checked for maximum signal strength and auto-tuned our tv to make sure it was all working before he left. I am a genuine customer. Many Thanks.

The auction house did not pack my purchase correctly for International Shipping, and as a result the 90 year old wood box was shattered. Sadly, the auction house has refused to do anything about this. I am pursuing the matter, in hopes that something can be worked out. The contact person at the auction house was unprofessional to put it mildly when I mentioned th matter to her.
I will update this when the matter is resolved.
UPDATE
Just heard back from the credit card company, and my claim has been turned down. MC has advised me to take it up with the shipper. The auction house previously refused to enter a claim with the shipper, and claimed I had to do it, although that is not how the shipping claims work. To say the auction house has been unprofessional in this matter would be an understatement. I have dealt with hundreds of auction houses over the years, getting items shipped, and this is the worst treatment I have ever gotten-actually, it is the only bad treatment I have ever gotten. Stay away if you can't be there to pick up your on items.

I paid £36 for packing and Shipping for 2 vases won at auction. The parcel arrived with both vases smashed. The packing was completely inadequate; hardly any wrapping so the vases moved around inside the box.

I emailed the director to ask for a refund. I was totally refused. It appears if you accept postage from this auction house (which they offer in their terms) they will charge you very well but take no responsibility.

Not ethical or professional service. They take your money and run!