Ending auctions
Auction houses have different ways of how they handle this, but an online auction is typically not closed the same way as a combined (podium) auction. An online auction can last for years, while combined auctions are ended when the last scheduled object (LOT) leaves the podium, with possibilities for aftersale before final closure.
This process may result in
Objects sold on aftersale
Unsold objects are moved to other auctions or returned to supplier
Bidnotes are closed
Invoices created, both customer and supplier invoices
Ended auction
Online auction is as mentioned not ended very often. Combined auction is only available for a limited time with a fixed number of objects corresponding to the catalogue representing the auction. There is functionality for performing aftersale when podium handling is finished. Users don’t have to do this, but many use this for some last sales (and customer can get object quite cheap cause the price is set to the estimated price (no bidding). When putting the auction in aftersale or ending the auction, the system will automatically create customer and supplier invoices. This can also be configured to be handled otherwise. Bidnotes for the auction will also be closed in this process (when activating aftersale or ending the auction). End action will close the auction, and do mostly the same as aftersale regarding invoices and bidnotes if aftersale is not performed. When the auction is closed, sold objects not shipped are shipped and unsold objects are moved to other auctions or are returned to suppliers.
Tasks involved in this process
Aftersale
End auction
Handling of unsold objects
Sold objects are shipped, handled by the Fulfilment planning (PFP) and Shipment (SPN) applications.