FAQ
How much does it cost to bid?
All bidders must register an account which helps create a reliable and secure auction environment for all participants. To ensure all bidders are genuine and to protect you we take a $1 AUD card payment on sign-up.
Why do you need to register?
By securely registering all bidders, you can rest assured that you are not competing against unethical or fraudulent participants. Golden Plates will reach out to you if any additional information is required to approve your participation in the auction.
I have to sign up with a card, but do I have to pay for my winning bid on that card?
No. Winning bidders will be invoiced at the conclusion of the auction and have the opportunity to pay for their plates using common preferred payment methods, including credit card, debit card and direct deposit.
What is a Buyers Premium?
A Buyer’s Premium is an additional fee paid directly to Golden Plates, over and above the final sale price. If you are the highest bidder, Golden Plates will send you an invoice for the bid amount plus the Buyer’s Premium at the conclusion of the auction. Our Buyer’s Premium is 4.9% (incl. GST).
What happens at the end of the auction?
At the conclusion of the auction, the winning bidder will receive an invoice with the final sale price, plus Buyer’s Premium. The balance must be paid to the Golden Plates Account within two (2) business days of receiving the invoice.
Golden Plates will handle the transfer of ownership and settlement on behalf of both the Buyer and Seller. This ensures a safe and reliable transaction process, without the need for the Buyer and Seller to meet.
What happens if an auction does not meet the reserve price?
If an auction does not meet the reserve, bidders will have one hour after the auction concludes to submit their final offer before the item is withdrawn from sale.
Final offers must be submitted in writing to tim@goldenplates.com.au, placing you at the forefront of any potential negotiations with the seller.
Will people see my name when I am bidding in the auction?
No, each bidder’s name is concealed during the auction.
What currency are the auctions?
All auctions are in Australian Dollars (AUD).
Will there be credit card facilities to make payment of the invoice?
Credit card facilities will be available and detailed on the invoice if you’re the winning bidder. Please note that credit card payments incur a 1.75% surcharge.
How are the number plate transferred to me?
Transferring your number plates to you is relatively simple. Once payment has been received we'll send you a Transfer of Ownership form with details for how to submit it to VicRoads. We'll also send you details for how to register your new plates for your vehicle at the same time. Given this will all be completed prior to your plates arriving in the mail, you'll be able to display your plates on your vehicle the moment they arrive.
It's important to the remember your plates always remain the property of the state / country they are registered in. You are simply purchasing the 'Rights to Display' your particular combination of characters.
When will I receive my plates?
All plates are mailed to you within one business day of payment being received. Delivery typically takes 5-7 days and tracking is provided. Golden Plates is happy to organise pick-up if schedules and locations permit. If you are a winning bidder and wish to pick-up your plates please contact us to make arrangements by writing to tim@goldenplates.com.au
Can I bid and purchase if I'm an interstate buyer?
Yes, you can bid on and purchase Victorian custom number plates from interstate. Our platform allows registered users to bid from anywhere in Australia. All you need is a valid account (with verified identity where required) and access to the internet.
Purchasing and Owning: You don't need to live in Victoria - Anyone can buy and own the rights to a Victorian custom plate. Many collectors or out-of-state residents purchase plates to hold onto as investments or for safekeeping.
Can I change the size, stye or colour of the plate I want?
Once the plate has been transferred to you, all of the VicRoads colours, sizes and styles for your combination are available to you to. It's as simple as choosing the colour, size or style you would like and then contacting them to order replacement plates. Replacement plate prices are as quoted by VicRoads, but are typically only the cost of remaking the plates.
Are there ongoing or annual fees associated with owning a VicRoads custom plate?
No. One of the many appealing aspects of investing in custom plates is that they don't attract and are not subject to any ongoing or annual fees - no matter how many you own. Unlike property/land where you're constantly paying land tax and rates, once you purchase a custom plate that's it, it's yours for life and (importantly) can be passed members of your family with ease - making them one of the most secure and bankable investments. It's important to the remember your plates always remain the property of the state / country they are registered in. You are simply purchasing the 'Rights to Display' your particular combination of characters.