UK Government Auction True-Cost Calculator

The hammer price is rarely what you pay. Most UK government & surplus auctions add a buyer's premium (often 10–18%), and most lots are sold plus VAT at 20%. Add collection and you have your real total - work it out below before you bid.

Winning bid (£)Buyer's premium (%)VAT (%) - optionalMost surplus lots are sold plus VAT at the standard 20% rate.Round-trip pickup distance (mi) - optionalEstimated at £0.45/mi.

What you'll actually pay

Winning bid: £4,000
Buyer's premium (18%): £720
VAT (20%): £944
True cost: £5,664

VAT and pickup are your estimates - confirm VAT with the seller. Buyer's premium is set per auction.

Browse live UK government auctions or see all buyer tools.