Why do the Goldbergs send a zero balance invoice for items bid on but not won?

Longacre · October 30, 2007 2:58AM

I put in two bids on coins in a recent Goldberg Auction. The pieces were relatively inexpensive and they didn't warrant the need for professional representation. I know, I know, it is sheer lunacy to bid on coins sight unseen, but these coins were truly inexpensive.

Fast foward to the auction, and I am not the high bidder. No big deal. However, a few days ago, I received an invoice from the Cousins. It showed my bid (let's say it was $100), and then the selling price of the lots (let's say it was $300), and it showed a balance due of $0.

I know that mailing a letter is getting more expensive, and the firm certainly has my email address. Does anyone else receive these "no balance due" invoices for lots not won? Is there a way to opt out of them? I would like to see that $0.41 go into the Cousins' pockets rather than to the Postal Service. Any comments?

PrivateCoinCollector · October 30, 2007 3:01AM

They are pretty smart about doing that. I think it goes a long way to saying we noticed you bid, and it gives closure to the process more so than a few empty mouse clicks.

mrearlygold · October 30, 2007 3:04AM

Scotsman does the same thing

pharmer · October 30, 2007 3:16AM

I got their zero balance invoice for the coins I won and paid for a month ago, so there you go. Doesn't bother me.

lathmach · October 30, 2007 3:23AM

I think it's a good idea.
You know your bid was recognized.

Ray

IrishMike · October 30, 2007 3:25AM

No biggie just send them a check for zero along with the invoice and call it even.

Scavenger · October 30, 2007 3:54AM

My guess would be computer generated mailings, they have to have some sort of automated system to keep track of all the lots. This would also explain why some people receive auction catalogs and some dont, they probably get sent to people who bid on prior auctions.

BECOKA · October 30, 2007 3:59AM

<< <i>They are pretty smart about doing that. I think it goes a long way to saying we noticed you bid, and it gives closure to the process more so than a few empty mouse clicks. >>

Agreed,

If an auction company is going to charge a % premium and shipping on top of that they should use some of the extra funds to keep thier bidders coming back.

ebaytrader · October 30, 2007 4:06AM

<< <i>Scotsman does the same thing >>

As does Smythe.

Why do the Goldbergs send a zero balance invoice for items bid on but not won?

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