Q. What is The MBE Auction from Mail Boxes Etc.?
A. MBE Auction is a bespoke service from international delivery experts Mail Boxes Etc. Tailored specifically for auction houses, dealers, galleries, museums and their customers, it specialises in the collection, packing and worldwide shipping of antiques and fine art, as well as providing comprehensive compensation cover.
Q. How do I select my preferred MBE store to handle my order?
A. There's no need to make a manual selection as all listed UK auctioneers are already associated with a Mail Boxes Etc. store in the vicinity of the auction house.
Q. Can you deliver overseas?
A. Yes, to practically any postal address in the world. Where we can’t deliver door to door, we will deliver to a local pick up point.
Q. Do you have a size and weight limit for shipments?
A. Because we offer such a wide range of carrier services, we can accommodate virtually any package, regardless of size and weight. for furniture, larger or specialist items, we work with nominated hauliers committed to the same levels of quality as our own.
Q. Can I send non-antiques with you?
A. Yes, we’ll handle fine art, items that are under 100 years old, curios and collectables, sculpture, jewellery, porcelain, fabrics and other artefacts. In fact, you can send just about anything with us – just ask for details or see our terms and conditions.
Q. Is there anything that can’t be sent with you?
A. Some items, such as dangerous or protected items, cannot be shipped either nationally or internationally. Please see our terms and conditions.
Q. What packaging services do you provide?
A. We pride ourselves on our expert packaging services – all our staff are fully trained and we carry a wide range of materials to ensure safe and secure transit for your consignment. To find out more, please see our specialist packing page.
Q. Do you collect from auction houses?
A. Yes. To find our more, see our collection services page.
Q. Do you offer insurance or compensation cover?
A. We offer comprehensive compensation cover equivalent to the value of the goods and associated shipping costs, provided that they are packed by us, for peace of mind in the unlikely event of loss or damage during transit. Ask about our MBE CoverProtect service when you contact us.
Q. How do I track my shipment?
A. Tracking is easy. You will be given a consignment number when you book your shipment. This can be used for online tracking here or on the carrier’s website.
Q. What if the item arrives broken or damaged?
A. Photograph the packaging (internal and external) and retain it, photograph the item, advise the seller and advise us immediately. If the item needs repair and you have purchased compensation cover, we’ll ask you to submit a claim form for consideration and rapid settlement.
Q. Why does the final price sometimes differ from the original estimate?
A. Our estimates are usually very accurate. However, sometimes items are not exactly as described (for example, paintings are usually listed without frames and, if a frame is included, this will increase the overall size of the consignment). Rest assured that we will always provide you with a final price and obtain your agreement before shipping.
Q. How do I register to receive news, updates and special offers from you?
A. Just go to the home page and click on ‘Register with us’, complete and send your details. We’ll stay in touch with relevant information but we won’t share your details with third parties or send you lots of unwanted communications.