In an earlier post I shared 5 Tips for Negotiating at French Flea Markets. Thanks to a reader’s suggestion, I’m adding another suggestion to the list:
Tip #6: If you purchase an expensive item at a flea or antiques market, ask the seller for a detailed invoice.
The invoice will be an essential record in case you need to follow up afterwards. Ask the seller to jot down specific details—such as the color, materials, dimensions, date of purchase, etc.—so that the receipt describes, without question, the item(s) that you purchased.
antique at Carré Rive Gauche in Paris
This isn’t meant to be alarming. My purchases at the flea markets in Paris and elsewhere have been positive experiences, but nonetheless this is a good practice to follow at any antique or flea market if you buy something at a considerable sum.
Clignancourt flea market in Paris
At a market in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for example, I bought a sculpture and arranged with the dealer for shipment. It got damaged en route. If I hadn’t insisted upon a detailed receipt—plus taken photos of it in its good condition at the time of purchase, which is another good tip!— I wouldn’t have stood a chance of getting my money back.
sculpture from Thai market
Do you have suggestions from your own experiences at flea and antiques markets? If so, send them my way. I always enjoy hearing and learning from you.
antiques in Mollégès in Provence
Related Posts:
10 Tips for Shopping at Flea & Antiques Markets
Antiques Fair in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence
5 Tips for Negotiating at French Flea Markets
How to Prepare for Any Flea Market Like a Pro
Best Flea Markets in Paris