Gemsmakers · Antique Dealer Tools
Antique Auction Lot Cost Allocation Calculator
When a single auction lot contains several antiques, the total landed cost needs to be assigned to the individual pieces for inventory records and future profit calculations. This tool splits the shared purchase cost and acquisition expenses using a method you choose, then verifies that item allocations reconcile to the total.
Calculator
Enter your figures below. Results update from the assumptions you supply; check your agreement, fee schedule, and local requirements before making a decision.
How to use this tool
- Enter the total hammer price, buyer premium rate, buyer fees, estimated tax, and shipping.
- List each item as: Item | estimated resale value | weight | manual allocation percent.
- Choose equal allocation, estimated resale value, weight, or manual percentages. Manual shares must sum to 100%.
- Review each item’s allocated cost basis and confirm the total allocated cost equals the entered lot cost.
Calculation method
Total landed lot cost = hammer + premium + estimated tax + buyer fees + shipping, where tax is modeled on hammer plus premium. Item allocation share is equal, proportional to estimated resale value, proportional to weight, or the manually entered share.
Worked example
If the full lot costs 1,200 after fees and contains three pieces with equal allocation, each item receives a 400 cost basis. Value-based allocation will assign a larger share to items with higher estimated resale values.
Important assumptions and limitations
- Allocation is an accounting method, not proof of an item’s market value or authenticity.
- Choose a method and apply it consistently to similar bulk purchases; manually adjust only when a reasoned policy supports the allocation.
- This estimate treats tax as applying to hammer plus premium; confirm the actual auction invoice.
Frequently asked questions
Which allocation method is best?
Use a consistent method supported by your records. Estimated resale value can better reflect value distribution; equal allocation is simple when items are similar; weight is useful only when weight reasonably relates to value or costs.
Do manual percentages need to total 100%?
Yes. The calculator validates the total so the allocated item costs reconcile to the full lot cost.
What is cost basis?
It is the portion of acquisition cost assigned to an item for inventory and profit tracking.
Are restoration costs included?
Not in the shared lot total by default. Add item-specific restoration to each item’s records after allocation if needed.
Why include shipping?
Shared shipping is part of bringing the lot into inventory and should be allocated when calculating a landed acquisition cost.
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