I notice there hasn't been much response on this thread. I too am curious as to preferred consignment auction items. Hoping to not re-invent the wheel if others can share their good or even bad experiences with the various companies out there. If you'd prefer to not post on this thread and email me in private instead, my email address is cutiepetutiesmom at gmail dot com
As with any industry, there are legit companies and ones to avoid in the consignment area. For instance, I've steered my clients away from one consignor, who misrepresented a vacation property. The buyer (and consequently, school) ended up paying a few hundred dollars in fees that they insist weren't explained.
I won't comment on any consignors in a thread like this, but will share that there are hundreds of choices for you. For very small auctions that rarely sell live auction items for over $3000, I generally don't use the traditional consignors offering set prices. It's simply too difficult for the client to raise money ... most of the donation goes to the consignor. I suggest alternatives to help them, instead.
There is also the debate about whether or not you should share the consignment price with the bidders. Some supporters would rather 100% of their donation goes to help the charity and -- had they known what you were paying -- might not have bid.
Not really familiar with the companies you've mentioned, but did want to pass along a link to an article we just recently published in the magazine that addresses a number of auction trends, including consignment. Here's the article link: 5 Trends To Help Your Auction Shine, www.ptotoday.com/pto-today-articles/arti...p-your-auction-shine
I was wondering if any of you have used the places online such as Bluetree Marketing, or charityfundraisingpackages.com. They way they work is they loan the item to you; each has a consignment price; anything you make above the consignment price you keep; you mail them the consignment fee after the event. If the item doesn't sell, you just ship it back.
It sounds like it could be a great option to get a high-profile thing like a signed movie poster, or a vacation, but I'm leary. I've tried googling about them to find reviews but can't find any.
If any of you have tried them, please let me know what you thought, and let me know if there are any particular companies you would recommend.
