EPCS Online Auction Rules

Eligibility

• Participation in EPCS online auctions is restricted to current members of the English Playing Card Society (EPCS).
• Only members who have held continuous membership for a minimum of 12 months may act as sellers.
• All members may bid, subject to these rules.

The role of the EPCS

The EPCS provides a platform for members to buy and sell items. It acts solely as a facilitator.

• The EPCS does not verify descriptions or the authenticity of items.
• The EPCS accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of listings, the condition or completeness of items, payment, delivery, loss or damage in transit, or disputes arising from transactions.
• All transactions are strictly between the buyer and seller.

Seller responsibilities

Listing requirements

Sellers must submit their listing through the members' website and include:

• A clear and accurate description of the item or items.
• A condition report covering physical condition, defects or restoration, and completeness where applicable.
• A list of contents for sets, boxes or collections.

Images

• Up to six photographs may be provided.
• Images should clearly represent the item and its condition.

Pricing

• A starting price must be stated.
• An optional reserve price may be set. The reserve will remain confidential.

Payment terms

The seller must clearly state the accepted payment methods and any payment deadlines.

Postage and shipping

The seller must specify postage costs and options, shipping regions, and any insurance or tracking arrangements offered. Sellers should provide costs for the relevant regions, including the UK, Europe, the USA, Canada, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand, and any additional countries they will ship to.

Buyer responsibilities

• Bidders must ensure that they are able to complete the purchase before placing a bid.
• The highest bid at auction close constitutes a binding agreement to purchase, subject to any reserve being met.
• Buyers must pay promptly in accordance with the seller's terms.
• Buyers must provide accurate delivery information.

Auction process

• Auctions will run for the period specified in the listing.
• Bids must be submitted through the designated platform.
• The winning bidder is the highest bidder at the closing time, provided that any reserve has been met.

Communication and disputes

• All post-auction communication is between the buyer and seller.
• Disputes must be resolved directly between the buyer and seller.
• The EPCS will not mediate disputes, but may review conduct affecting membership or auction participation.
• Members are expected to act in good faith and in a manner consistent with the standards of the Society.
• Persistent complaints or misconduct may be referred to the EPCS Committee and could result in suspension of auction privileges or membership review.

Acceptance of these rules

By participating in an auction as a buyer or seller, members agree to abide by these rules.

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