Getting the most from SMSBID
On these pages, you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about using SMSBID, and details of how to get in touch if you want to talk to us directly.
Help Topics
"What does '100% off' mean? How do I top-up my bid account? What happens once I've won an auction?" Find the answers to these and many more of our most commonly asked questions in the list to the left.
Quick Links
Want to change your delivery address? Or maybe your password's slipped your mind. On the right, you'll find information on how to make changes to your SMSBID account.
Email SMSBID
If you can't find what your looking for in our help pages, maybe you'd like to contact our friendly Customer Service team. Click on the email link to the right, and we'll do our very best to answer your questions.
On these pages, you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about using SMSBID, and details of how to get in touch if you want to talk to us directly.
Help Topics
"What does '100% off' mean? How do I top-up my bid account? What happens once I've won an auction?" Find the answers to these and many more of our most commonly asked questions in the list to the left.
Quick Links
Want to change your delivery address? Or maybe your password's slipped your mind. On the right, you'll find information on how to make changes to your SMSBID account.
Email SMSBID
If you can't find what your looking for in our help pages, maybe you'd like to contact our friendly Customer Service team. Click on the email link to the right, and we'll do our very best to answer your questions.
What is SMSBID?
Here at SMSBID, we’re all about deals, deals and more deals! On SMSBID, you have a chance to grab the bargain of a lifetime every single day! Top brand name products, event tickets, holidays, designer clothes, watches and handbags for a fraction of their normal selling prices.
To start off, you’ll need to buy some bids. The cheapest way to bid is to buy bid packs online. The more bids you buy, the cheaper they become. You can also bid by SMS text message using your mobile phone. We have several different types of auction for you to bid on and master in order to grab yourself some incredible bargains. See how it works and discover how to bid! On SMSBID it’s not all about how long you can hold your nerve, it’s also about how fast you can master the art of bidding in order to claim the top spot.
Here at SMSBID, we’re all about deals, deals and more deals! On SMSBID, you have a chance to grab the bargain of a lifetime every single day! Top brand name products, event tickets, holidays, designer clothes, watches and handbags for a fraction of their normal selling prices.
To start off, you’ll need to buy some bids. The cheapest way to bid is to buy bid packs online. The more bids you buy, the cheaper they become. You can also bid by SMS text message using your mobile phone. We have several different types of auction for you to bid on and master in order to grab yourself some incredible bargains. See how it works and discover how to bid! On SMSBID it’s not all about how long you can hold your nerve, it’s also about how fast you can master the art of bidding in order to claim the top spot.
How Can I Get Involved?
To bid online you need to register quickly and then buy a few bids, then you’re good to go. If you prefer, you can also bid using SMS text messages – there are easy to follow instructions on each auction page. Bids placed by text message are simply billed to your mobile phone bill – it couldn’t be easier!.
To bid online you need to register quickly and then buy a few bids, then you’re good to go. If you prefer, you can also bid using SMS text messages – there are easy to follow instructions on each auction page. Bids placed by text message are simply billed to your mobile phone bill – it couldn’t be easier!.
How Much Does It Cost To Bid?
You can buy bid bundles from the buy bids page. The more bids you buy, the more you save…. But that’s not all: Buy your bids during happy hour and we’ll double them up for you for free! Bids sent in by SMS text message are charged at a standard 50p per message.
You can buy bid bundles from the buy bids page. The more bids you buy, the more you save…. But that’s not all: Buy your bids during happy hour and we’ll double them up for you for free! Bids sent in by SMS text message are charged at a standard 50p per message.
How Do I Bid On SMSBID?
- Bidding by text message (SMS): Choose the auction you’d like to bid on, and simply send an SMS message containing the auction ID to the number on the auction page. For the “lowest unique bid” auctions you’ll also need to enter a bid amount – see the how it works page or individual auction pages for full information.
- To bid online, simply register on our website, buy some bids, choose an auction and bid away! We have several different kinds of auctions for you to bid on – we’re sure you’ll find a favourite amongst them. See the how it works page for full details.
What Is A Bid Buddy?
If you’re gearing up for a bidding war and want to place multiple bids on an auction, then make sure you have the Bid Buddy loaded up and ready for war!
A Bid Buddy is designed to help you win by strategically placing your bids in the dying seconds of the auction you’re bidding on. Visit the how to use the Bid Buddy page for full information.
Which auctions can I use the BidBuddy on?
BidBuddy can be used on classic countdown auctions, penny auctions and 100% auctions. The BidBuddy is not available on the Nailbiter, Gridmaster, Gridmaster plus or lowest unique bid auctions.
Can I cancel my BidBuddy?
You can cancel your BidBuddy as long as he hasn’t started bidding yet. Your BidBuddy will start bidding once the “bid from” price you entered has been reached.
How many bids can my BidBuddy place for me?
Your BidBuddy can place as many bids as you tell him to. Just make sure you have enough bids in your account for him to bid for you.
Will the BidBuddy Bid more then he’s supposed to?
No way! The BidBuddy will not use any more bids then you tell him to. Even if the “bid to” price you set up has not been reached, If he uses up all the bids you set for him to use, then that’s all he will use.
What if all the bids I gave the BidBuddy to work with don’t get used?
They’ll simply go back into your account balance. This can happen when you win the auction (yipeee!!) or if the “bid from” price you entered isn’t reached or the “bid to” price is reached before all your bids get used up.
If you’re gearing up for a bidding war and want to place multiple bids on an auction, then make sure you have the Bid Buddy loaded up and ready for war!
A Bid Buddy is designed to help you win by strategically placing your bids in the dying seconds of the auction you’re bidding on. Visit the how to use the Bid Buddy page for full information.
Which auctions can I use the BidBuddy on?
BidBuddy can be used on classic countdown auctions, penny auctions and 100% auctions. The BidBuddy is not available on the Nailbiter, Gridmaster, Gridmaster plus or lowest unique bid auctions.
Can I cancel my BidBuddy?
You can cancel your BidBuddy as long as he hasn’t started bidding yet. Your BidBuddy will start bidding once the “bid from” price you entered has been reached.
How many bids can my BidBuddy place for me?
Your BidBuddy can place as many bids as you tell him to. Just make sure you have enough bids in your account for him to bid for you.
Will the BidBuddy Bid more then he’s supposed to?
No way! The BidBuddy will not use any more bids then you tell him to. Even if the “bid to” price you set up has not been reached, If he uses up all the bids you set for him to use, then that’s all he will use.
What if all the bids I gave the BidBuddy to work with don’t get used?
They’ll simply go back into your account balance. This can happen when you win the auction (yipeee!!) or if the “bid from” price you entered isn’t reached or the “bid to” price is reached before all your bids get used up.
Can you give me some advice about how to bid?
We often get asked by people how to improve their chances of winning an auction on SMSBID.
There’s no "sure-fire" winning strategy, but here are a few tips to help you get started, as well as a few of the traps that novice bidders sometimes fall into.
Place your bid late
Watch the countdown and try to jump in and bid in the last few seconds. If the timer has reached the last few seconds, you know that it will end unless another bid is placed. (Don’t leave it too late though, or you might miss out)
Start with the cheapest products
Although you can get some incredible bargains on our most expensive items, they also tend to be the most competitive auctions, attracting hundreds of bidders. Our cheaper products tend to have fewer bidders, meaning you’re much more likely to win.
Use the BidBuddy to your advantage
The BidBuddy is a powerful tool, if you get the timing right you can scare off other bidders by placing one. Nobody likes to see their bids matched over and over again by your all conquering BidBuddy, you might just persuade them to give up and try again next time.
Turn their BidBuddys against them
On the other hand, some people have a ‘fire and forget’ policy with the BidBuddy. It is easy to swoop in and win with a quick single bid if your rival has gone to make a cup of tea safe in the knowledge that their BidBuddy will protect them.
We’ve noticed that users tend to set the ‘Bid To’ value of their BidBuddys to a round number, so watch out for this and you might be able to snap up a bargain by simply clicking on the “Bid” button when a BidBuddy has just finished.
Keep an eye on what other bidders are up to
You can see the details of the last ten bids placed: try to work out who’s bidding and when they’re bidding. It’s all about timing, so maybe you can work out when’s the right time to jump in and grab the lot.
Scope out the competition
Look and see how many different bidders have recently bid on an auction. You’re more likely to win if there are fewer bidders interested in the item than if there are lots of competing bidders.
Bid at the right time of day
The number of bidders varies throughout the day – smart bidders can use this to pick up bargains by bidding when others are busy having breakfast or taking the dog for a walk.
Fine-tune your BidBuddy
If you use the BidBuddy to bid on your behalf, it’s best not to set your ‘Bid To’ value to a round number – other bidders will be watching out for this (see above!).
We often get asked by people how to improve their chances of winning an auction on SMSBID.
There’s no "sure-fire" winning strategy, but here are a few tips to help you get started, as well as a few of the traps that novice bidders sometimes fall into.
Place your bid late
Watch the countdown and try to jump in and bid in the last few seconds. If the timer has reached the last few seconds, you know that it will end unless another bid is placed. (Don’t leave it too late though, or you might miss out)
Start with the cheapest products
Although you can get some incredible bargains on our most expensive items, they also tend to be the most competitive auctions, attracting hundreds of bidders. Our cheaper products tend to have fewer bidders, meaning you’re much more likely to win.
Use the BidBuddy to your advantage
The BidBuddy is a powerful tool, if you get the timing right you can scare off other bidders by placing one. Nobody likes to see their bids matched over and over again by your all conquering BidBuddy, you might just persuade them to give up and try again next time.
Turn their BidBuddys against them
On the other hand, some people have a ‘fire and forget’ policy with the BidBuddy. It is easy to swoop in and win with a quick single bid if your rival has gone to make a cup of tea safe in the knowledge that their BidBuddy will protect them.
We’ve noticed that users tend to set the ‘Bid To’ value of their BidBuddys to a round number, so watch out for this and you might be able to snap up a bargain by simply clicking on the “Bid” button when a BidBuddy has just finished.
Keep an eye on what other bidders are up to
You can see the details of the last ten bids placed: try to work out who’s bidding and when they’re bidding. It’s all about timing, so maybe you can work out when’s the right time to jump in and grab the lot.
Scope out the competition
Look and see how many different bidders have recently bid on an auction. You’re more likely to win if there are fewer bidders interested in the item than if there are lots of competing bidders.
Bid at the right time of day
The number of bidders varies throughout the day – smart bidders can use this to pick up bargains by bidding when others are busy having breakfast or taking the dog for a walk.
Fine-tune your BidBuddy
If you use the BidBuddy to bid on your behalf, it’s best not to set your ‘Bid To’ value to a round number – other bidders will be watching out for this (see above!).
Can I set a BidBuddy on a paused auction?
Yes you can, but the BidBuddy's bids will not be consumed unless someone else places a BidBuddy bid, or the auction is unpaused.
Yes you can, but the BidBuddy's bids will not be consumed unless someone else places a BidBuddy bid, or the auction is unpaused.
How can I buy bidpacks?
You can visit the Buy Bids page. Look out for the “buy bids” links all over the website. We accept payment by most credit or debit cards and Paypal. For extra value – why not buy your bids during “happy hour” where we give you free bids with every bid purchase!
You can visit the Buy Bids page. Look out for the “buy bids” links all over the website. We accept payment by most credit or debit cards and Paypal. For extra value – why not buy your bids during “happy hour” where we give you free bids with every bid purchase!
How can I keep track of all my bids and the auctions I’m bidding on?
Within “my SMSBID” there’s a “bidding history” section. Here, you’ll be able to see all the auctions you have bid on previously and how many bids you have placed on them.
Within “my SMSBID” there’s a “bidding history” section. Here, you’ll be able to see all the auctions you have bid on previously and how many bids you have placed on them.
What does the “bidding history” on the side of the auction mean?
This gives you an idea of how many other bidders are in the race right now and the most recent bids that have been placed. This is updated every single time a bid is placed – remember: keep your BidBuddy close and your enemies even closer!
This gives you an idea of how many other bidders are in the race right now and the most recent bids that have been placed. This is updated every single time a bid is placed – remember: keep your BidBuddy close and your enemies even closer!
Delivery & Shipping
We can deliver your item wherever you want it. We may require further verification by fax / e-mail or post in some instances though. Delivery on most items is free. For some items there may be a delivery charge to pay. These charges are stated on the auction page. Delivery prices quoted (and free delivery) apply to mainland UK only. Delivery to Highlands, Islands, remote areas and outside the UK mainland may differ. In these cases we’ll contact you.
We can deliver your item wherever you want it. We may require further verification by fax / e-mail or post in some instances though. Delivery on most items is free. For some items there may be a delivery charge to pay. These charges are stated on the auction page. Delivery prices quoted (and free delivery) apply to mainland UK only. Delivery to Highlands, Islands, remote areas and outside the UK mainland may differ. In these cases we’ll contact you.
Where can I see how many bids I've placed on an auction?
You can view the bids that you've placed most recently under 'Bid history' on the right hand side of the auction detail page, just under the BidBuddy section.
You can see a full bid history under Bid Account ('My SMSBID' -> 'Account' -> 'Bid account') by clicking on the '+' sign alongside every auction.
You can view the bids that you've placed most recently under 'Bid history' on the right hand side of the auction detail page, just under the BidBuddy section.
You can see a full bid history under Bid Account ('My SMSBID' -> 'Account' -> 'Bid account') by clicking on the '+' sign alongside every auction.
Where can I see my booked BidBuddys?
You can see the BidBuddy bids that you have booked on a specific item on the auction detail page. Simply click on the 'BidBuddy overview' tab next to the 'Book BidBuddy' tab in the BidBuddy section.
To see all of your current planned BidBuddy bids across all auctions, go to 'My BidBuddys' under 'My SMSBID' -> 'Auctions'. Remember, these are only your planned BidBuddy bids and do not show BidBuddy bids that have already been placed."
You can see the BidBuddy bids that you have booked on a specific item on the auction detail page. Simply click on the 'BidBuddy overview' tab next to the 'Book BidBuddy' tab in the BidBuddy section.
To see all of your current planned BidBuddy bids across all auctions, go to 'My BidBuddys' under 'My SMSBID' -> 'Auctions'. Remember, these are only your planned BidBuddy bids and do not show BidBuddy bids that have already been placed."
Where can I see how much I have spent on bids in an auction?
You can always see how much you've spent in a single auction by looking at the 'Savings' section just below the 'Bid' button on the auction detail page.
You can always see how much you've spent in a single auction by looking at the 'Savings' section just below the 'Bid' button on the auction detail page.
Where can I see who's bidding on an auction?
To see who's bidding on an auction, just look under 'Bid history' to see a list of the most recent bidders on that auction and the type of bid they placed.
To see who's bidding on an auction, just look under 'Bid history' to see a list of the most recent bidders on that auction and the type of bid they placed.
I've placed a bid but I am currently not the highest bidder, why?
When a bid is placed, it will always be the highest bid, but might get out-bid very quickly. This can happen if there are many bidders or if there's another user's BidBuddy also bidding on the auction. You might not see this simply because other bids have been placed with a few seconds of each other - sometimes even within the same second!
To help you make your bidding more effective, here are some tips:
When a bid is placed, it will always be the highest bid, but might get out-bid very quickly. This can happen if there are many bidders or if there's another user's BidBuddy also bidding on the auction. You might not see this simply because other bids have been placed with a few seconds of each other - sometimes even within the same second!
To help you make your bidding more effective, here are some tips:
- Look at the bid history, check the number of bidders on the auction and the type of bid placed. If there are only single bids, try placing a BidBuddy, a BidBuddy can not only save you bids, but also help you to become the highest bidder.
- Try looking for a similar auction with fewer bidders, you can often find a similar product on auction at the same time with fewer users. You could pick up a bargain without needing to place as many bids.
Substitute Items
We only auction products that we have in stock, which means (unlike many of our competitors) you don’t have to wait for weeks to get delivery. However, like anyone, we can make the occasional error. In these extremely rare instances, the item we auction off may not be available and we may need to offer you a substitute item. Substitute items will always be of equal or greater value and you have the right to refuse any substitute offered in exchange for a full refund of the purchase price and any bids associated with that particular auction.
We only auction products that we have in stock, which means (unlike many of our competitors) you don’t have to wait for weeks to get delivery. However, like anyone, we can make the occasional error. In these extremely rare instances, the item we auction off may not be available and we may need to offer you a substitute item. Substitute items will always be of equal or greater value and you have the right to refuse any substitute offered in exchange for a full refund of the purchase price and any bids associated with that particular auction.
Delivery Charges
Delivery on most items is free. For some items there may be a delivery charge to pay. These charges are stated on the auction page. Delivery prices quoted (and free delivery) apply to mainland UK only. Delivery to Highlands, Islands, remote areas and outside the UK mainland may differ. In these cases we’ll contact you.
Delivery on most items is free. For some items there may be a delivery charge to pay. These charges are stated on the auction page. Delivery prices quoted (and free delivery) apply to mainland UK only. Delivery to Highlands, Islands, remote areas and outside the UK mainland may differ. In these cases we’ll contact you.
Delivery Time
Most items are delivered within 48 hours of payment being made. For some items we may need to use a specialist courier. This may result in a slight delay to the delivery of your item. For event tickets you may be asked to collect from the box office directly or to meet with an agent appointed by SMSBID at the venue.
Most items are delivered within 48 hours of payment being made. For some items we may need to use a specialist courier. This may result in a slight delay to the delivery of your item. For event tickets you may be asked to collect from the box office directly or to meet with an agent appointed by SMSBID at the venue.
How will I know my product has been shipped?
We’ll send you a confirmation e-mail to tell you. This will include details of the courier company we have used along with their contact details and your consignment / tracking number. In most cases you can track the progress of your items online via the couriers’ website. All of the relevant information will be contained in the confirmation e-mail we send.
We’ll send you a confirmation e-mail to tell you. This will include details of the courier company we have used along with their contact details and your consignment / tracking number. In most cases you can track the progress of your items online via the couriers’ website. All of the relevant information will be contained in the confirmation e-mail we send.
Which countries does SMSBID deliver to?
We can deliver the item you've won to anywhere in mainland UK, including Northern Ireland. Sorry, but we’re not currently able to deliver to the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, the Scilly Isles, Scottish Islands, the Republic of Ireland or BFPO addresses.
We can deliver the item you've won to anywhere in mainland UK, including Northern Ireland. Sorry, but we’re not currently able to deliver to the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, the Scilly Isles, Scottish Islands, the Republic of Ireland or BFPO addresses.
The Item I Won Has Arrived, But It’s Faulty
Please give us a call or drop us an e-mail and we’ll be more than happy to sort it for you. Please make sure all faults are reported within 30 days of receipt so that we can make arrangements with the manufacturer to replace the item for you. If reported outside 30 days of receipt, you may be eligible for a repair only rather then a replacement.
Please give us a call or drop us an e-mail and we’ll be more than happy to sort it for you. Please make sure all faults are reported within 30 days of receipt so that we can make arrangements with the manufacturer to replace the item for you. If reported outside 30 days of receipt, you may be eligible for a repair only rather then a replacement.
Do The Products I Win Come With A Warranty?
Yes – it’s exactly the same as if you’d walked into a high street shop and bought it or ordered it online. Warranty on any particular item can vary, depending on the type of item. Normally, all products supplied are covered against manufacturing defect for 12 months by a manufacturers’ warranty. For full information on warranty and returns, please see our terms and conditions.
Yes – it’s exactly the same as if you’d walked into a high street shop and bought it or ordered it online. Warranty on any particular item can vary, depending on the type of item. Normally, all products supplied are covered against manufacturing defect for 12 months by a manufacturers’ warranty. For full information on warranty and returns, please see our terms and conditions.
I Don’t Want The Item I Have Won, Can I Have A Refund?
Yes, you may return any item you have won for a refund within 14 days of receipt, provided the item is unused and in it’s original (pristine) condition with all seals in tact. You will be refunded for the final price paid on the item only and not on the bids placed. Our refund policy for non-physical items which have an expiry date e.g. event tickets differs slightly – please our terms and conditions. for full information.
Yes, you may return any item you have won for a refund within 14 days of receipt, provided the item is unused and in it’s original (pristine) condition with all seals in tact. You will be refunded for the final price paid on the item only and not on the bids placed. Our refund policy for non-physical items which have an expiry date e.g. event tickets differs slightly – please our terms and conditions. for full information.
Can I get a refund on an item that I have won?
If, within 14 days of delivery, you decide you no longer want the item, we will be happy to refund the final price that you paid as well as the delivery costs, provided the item has not been damaged and is still in its original packaging. Please contact our customer service team for details of what to do, making sure to include the auction ID and your user name. Note that we are unable to refund the cost of any bids placed during the auction or the return shipping costs.
If, within 14 days of delivery, you decide you no longer want the item, we will be happy to refund the final price that you paid as well as the delivery costs, provided the item has not been damaged and is still in its original packaging. Please contact our customer service team for details of what to do, making sure to include the auction ID and your user name. Note that we are unable to refund the cost of any bids placed during the auction or the return shipping costs.
How do I change my password?
Please log onto SMSBID, then go to "My SMSBID > My data" and select the option "Change password".
Please log onto SMSBID, then go to "My SMSBID > My data" and select the option "Change password".
What do I do, if I've forgotten my password or user name?
Click on the "Help" option. Select the link "Lost password?" in the self help box. We'll send you an email that will explain what to do next - just click on the link in this e-mail. Due to security reasons we need to ask you to change your SMSBID password.
Click on the "Help" option. Select the link "Lost password?" in the self help box. We'll send you an email that will explain what to do next - just click on the link in this e-mail. Due to security reasons we need to ask you to change your SMSBID password.
How do I subscribe to/unsubscribe from the newsletter?
Subscribe
Click onto the "Help" option. Select the link "Subscribe/Unsubscribe" in the self help box. By typing in your email address and confirming it you will automatically be added to the SMSBID newsletter.
Unsubscribe
Click on the "Help" option. Select the link "Subscribe/Unsubscribe" in the self help box. By typing in your email address and confirming it you will automatically be unsubscribed from the SMSBID newsletter.
Subscribe
Click onto the "Help" option. Select the link "Subscribe/Unsubscribe" in the self help box. By typing in your email address and confirming it you will automatically be added to the SMSBID newsletter.
Unsubscribe
Click on the "Help" option. Select the link "Subscribe/Unsubscribe" in the self help box. By typing in your email address and confirming it you will automatically be unsubscribed from the SMSBID newsletter.
Can I change my user name?
Unfortunately, your user name cannot be changed. When registering, please be careful not to select a user name that could cause offence or abuses the rights of third parties. If you notice such a user name, please contact our customer service in case you find such cases on SMSBID.
Unfortunately, your user name cannot be changed. When registering, please be careful not to select a user name that could cause offence or abuses the rights of third parties. If you notice such a user name, please contact our customer service in case you find such cases on SMSBID.
How do I add or change my address?
Please log onto SMSBID and from "My SMSBID >User data" select the menu option "My address".
Please note that you can only store one billing address and one delivery address.
If you don't enter a separate delivery address, we'll ship the item to your billing address.
Please log onto SMSBID and from "My SMSBID >User data" select the menu option "My address".
Please note that you can only store one billing address and one delivery address.
If you don't enter a separate delivery address, we'll ship the item to your billing address.
Can I change my firstname and surname?
Please contact our customer service if your name has changed.
Please contact our customer service if your name has changed.
Where can I check my bids account?
Please log onto SMSBID. In the "Bid Balance" box on the right hand side of the page you'll be able to see the number of bids you currently have on your account.
Please log onto SMSBID. In the "Bid Balance" box on the right hand side of the page you'll be able to see the number of bids you currently have on your account.
Where can I check the number of vouchers I have?
Please log onto SMSBID, then go to "My SMSBID > Account" and select the option "Vouchers". You'll be shown all the vouchers you have available to redeem against auctions that you win. Please note that all vouchers issued by SMSBID can only be redeemed against auctions that you have won.
Please log onto SMSBID, then go to "My SMSBID > Account" and select the option "Vouchers". You'll be shown all the vouchers you have available to redeem against auctions that you win. Please note that all vouchers issued by SMSBID can only be redeemed against auctions that you have won.
Where can I check how many auctions I have won?
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > Auctions" menu, select "Auctions I've Won". Please remember to confirm that you want to actually buy any auctions that you have won.
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > Auctions" menu, select "Auctions I've Won". Please remember to confirm that you want to actually buy any auctions that you have won.
How do I delete my account?
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > My data" menu, select "Close account".
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > My data" menu, select "Close account".
How do I confirm a won auction?
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > Auctions" menu, select "Auctions I've Won". By confirming, we can make sure that we credit you with any vouchers or reductions from special offers - you wouldn't want to miss out on those!
Please log onto SMSBID and in the "My SMSBID > Auctions" menu, select "Auctions I've Won". By confirming, we can make sure that we credit you with any vouchers or reductions from special offers - you wouldn't want to miss out on those!
Where do I find my customer ID?
Once you have successfully registered, we send you your customer ID via email.
If you want us to re-send you your customer ID, just click on "Help". Select the link "Forgotten my account information" in the self help box. We'll then send you an email with your user ID.
Once you have successfully registered, we send you your customer ID via email.
If you want us to re-send you your customer ID, just click on "Help". Select the link "Forgotten my account information" in the self help box. We'll then send you an email with your user ID.
Can I change my email address?
If you want to change your e-mail address, please contact our customer service team who'll be happy to help. Remember to let them know your user name and customer ID.
If you want to change your e-mail address, please contact our customer service team who'll be happy to help. Remember to let them know your user name and customer ID.
How can I pay for my bids?
You can pay for your BidPacks by credit or debit card, via PayPal or Google Checkout. We accept all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, Visa debit cards including Visa Electron and Maestro debit cards. We're sorry but we are unable to accept payment by American Express or Diners' Card.
You can pay for your BidPacks by credit or debit card, via PayPal or Google Checkout. We accept all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, Visa debit cards including Visa Electron and Maestro debit cards. We're sorry but we are unable to accept payment by American Express or Diners' Card.
How can I pay for auctions I've won?
You can pay for items that you've won by credit or debit card, Google Checkout or via PayPal. We accept all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, Visa debit cards including Visa Electron and Maestro debit cards. We’re sorry but we are unable to accept payment by American Express or Diners’ Card.
You can pay for items that you've won by credit or debit card, Google Checkout or via PayPal. We accept all Visa and MasterCard credit cards, Visa debit cards including Visa Electron and Maestro debit cards. We’re sorry but we are unable to accept payment by American Express or Diners’ Card.
How secure are your payment methods?
Your privacy and security are important to us. We use high-security encoding (SSL) to protect your payment details when processing your online payments.
Your privacy and security are important to us. We use high-security encoding (SSL) to protect your payment details when processing your online payments.
What are the payment limits for each payment method?
So as to prevent fraudulent use of credit cards and PayPal, we have certain restrictions on how much you can purchase with any given payment method.
These are the limits for using the following payment methods on SMSBID:
If you have any further questions, please contact our customer service team using the following link:
http://www.SMSBID.co.uk/feedback.html
So as to prevent fraudulent use of credit cards and PayPal, we have certain restrictions on how much you can purchase with any given payment method.
These are the limits for using the following payment methods on SMSBID:
- Credit Card (Visa Card, Master Card) £500 per week (1)
- PayPal £500 per week (1,2)
- ClickandBuy £500 per week (1,2)
1 Payments using credit cards may be restricted by the payment provider, and are outside of
SMSBID's influence. Please contact your payment provider directly if you're in doubt.
2 When using PayPal please note that you can only associate a PayPal account with a single SMSBID account.
2 When using PayPal please note that you can only associate a PayPal account with a single SMSBID account.
If you have any further questions, please contact our customer service team using the following link:
http://www.SMSBID.co.uk/feedback.html
Can I bid on a future auction?
We'd ask you to wait until the auction's countdown has begun. These auctions are shown in the drop down menu under "live auctions".
We'd ask you to wait until the auction's countdown has begun. These auctions are shown in the drop down menu under "live auctions".
Hooray! I won an auction…. Now what?
To confirm you’ve won, we’ll send you an e-mail telling you that you’ve won the auction and instructions on how to go about claiming your item. The email will include a coupon code which you should type carefully into the “redeem your coupon” box on the website. You then click the “redeem” button, enter your address details on the next screen and, if required, your preferred payment method and payment details.
If you won by sending in an SMS (text message) then we’ll give you a call to process everything for you.
To confirm you’ve won, we’ll send you an e-mail telling you that you’ve won the auction and instructions on how to go about claiming your item. The email will include a coupon code which you should type carefully into the “redeem your coupon” box on the website. You then click the “redeem” button, enter your address details on the next screen and, if required, your preferred payment method and payment details.
If you won by sending in an SMS (text message) then we’ll give you a call to process everything for you.
How can I redeem my vouchers?
We occasionally give away different types of vouchers to make your SMSBID bargains even better value. Here’s an overview of some of the different vouchers that are available:
Vouchers for new customers
As our special way of saying hello, we give all of our new customers a Welcome Voucher.
Welcome vouchers can be redeemed against the final price of an auction that you've won, not against the purchase of BidPacks, the price of an Instant Purchase, or delivery charges.
Welcome vouchers can be used with all auctions, and can only be used up to their expiry date.
Vouchers linked to special offers
We sometimes give away other vouchers, for example in return for completing surveys or during “happy hours” on the site. These vouchers may have specific restrictions and always have an expiry date. Just like Welcome Vouchers, they can only be used against the final price of an auction that you’ve won.
Redeeming your vouchers
Once you've won an auction, you'll automatically be transferred to a confirmation page where you'll be able to enter your voucher code. Don't forget to redeem your voucher, as once you've confirmed your win you'll no longer be able to use it. Please note, that if you use a voucher with a value that exceeds the auction end price, the remaining voucher credit will expire.
We occasionally give away different types of vouchers to make your SMSBID bargains even better value. Here’s an overview of some of the different vouchers that are available:
Vouchers for new customers
As our special way of saying hello, we give all of our new customers a Welcome Voucher.
Welcome vouchers can be redeemed against the final price of an auction that you've won, not against the purchase of BidPacks, the price of an Instant Purchase, or delivery charges.
Welcome vouchers can be used with all auctions, and can only be used up to their expiry date.
Vouchers linked to special offers
We sometimes give away other vouchers, for example in return for completing surveys or during “happy hours” on the site. These vouchers may have specific restrictions and always have an expiry date. Just like Welcome Vouchers, they can only be used against the final price of an auction that you’ve won.
Redeeming your vouchers
Once you've won an auction, you'll automatically be transferred to a confirmation page where you'll be able to enter your voucher code. Don't forget to redeem your voucher, as once you've confirmed your win you'll no longer be able to use it. Please note, that if you use a voucher with a value that exceeds the auction end price, the remaining voucher credit will expire.
What types of auction are there?
We have several different types of auction to keep you nicely entertained. Each auction
We have several different types of auction to keep you nicely entertained. Each auction
- Classic Auction: The price of the item increases by 10p with every bid. Each time a bid is received, the clock gets pushed back to the nearest multiple of 10 seconds. Last bidder wins. The auction winner pays for the item at the final price. More information….
- Penny Auction: This works much the same way as the classic auction in that the clock gets pushed back to the nearest multiple of 10 seconds each time a bid is placed. The only difference is that with a penny auction, the bids placed only push the item price up by a single penny! More information….
- 100% Off Auction: These are an absolute steal! They work in exactly the same way as the classic auctions, where the clock gets pushed back to the nearest multiple of 10 seconds, and the item price increases by 10p, but with a 100% off auction, there’s no final item price to pay! More information….
- Lowest unique bid: The most popular auctions we have. Simply find the auction you want and then enter an amount into the box on the auction page or text your guess to the number on the screen and that’s it! The person whose bid is the lowest and unique wins the auction. More information….
- Gridmaster: Each auction has a number of balloons behind the squares. Some purples and some greens. The person who finds the most greens before the auction ends wins. If more than one person finds all the green balloons then it’s whoever does it fastest. To find out how many green balloons are hidden behind the squares, check the auction page. More information….
- Gridmaster Plus: Uncover the pairs behind the squares. There are a number of different pairs of pictures behind the squares on the grid. The person who finds the most pairs before the auction ends wins. If more than one person finds all the pairs then it’s whoever does it fastest. More information….
International Auctions
Bidding may be open to bidders in other countries. Bidders from all countries are charged pretty much the same per bid as we adjust our bid pack prices regularly to reflect the exchange rates. This also lets those bidders in other countries to buy bids in their local currency.
Bidding may be open to bidders in other countries. Bidders from all countries are charged pretty much the same per bid as we adjust our bid pack prices regularly to reflect the exchange rates. This also lets those bidders in other countries to buy bids in their local currency.
I've won an auction using a telephone bid, what do I do now?
Congratulations on winning an auction!
It would be great if you could register with SMSBID.co.uk if you haven't already done so, as this makes the whole process a lot easier for everyone. But no worries we will also send you the item if you choose not to register with us. After you have won an auction, our customer service will contact you. Please do tell them your user ID, which we would have sent to you after your registration.
Confirm your auction win
After we have connected your won auction with your user account, please confirm your win. You can also redeem your vouchers under ""My SMSBID > Won auctions"". Immediately after we receive your confirmation, we will send out all important information to you via email, so that you can pay for your item.
With the confirmation of your auction win you declare your acceptance of this product to SMSBID. Please confirm your auction win within 21 days, as otherwise SMSBID will have to withdraw from the contract. Any rights or claims by the winner for delivery of the product cease in that case.
Pay for auction win
Please pay for your won item by pre payment within 7 days. We will inform you via email, as soon as we have received your payment. You will receive your invoice as soon as our suppliers have sent out the item to you. Please contact us, if you have not received any information as to the whereabouts of the item within 14 days of receiving our payment confirmation."
Congratulations on winning an auction!
It would be great if you could register with SMSBID.co.uk if you haven't already done so, as this makes the whole process a lot easier for everyone. But no worries we will also send you the item if you choose not to register with us. After you have won an auction, our customer service will contact you. Please do tell them your user ID, which we would have sent to you after your registration.
Confirm your auction win
After we have connected your won auction with your user account, please confirm your win. You can also redeem your vouchers under ""My SMSBID > Won auctions"". Immediately after we receive your confirmation, we will send out all important information to you via email, so that you can pay for your item.
With the confirmation of your auction win you declare your acceptance of this product to SMSBID. Please confirm your auction win within 21 days, as otherwise SMSBID will have to withdraw from the contract. Any rights or claims by the winner for delivery of the product cease in that case.
Pay for auction win
Please pay for your won item by pre payment within 7 days. We will inform you via email, as soon as we have received your payment. You will receive your invoice as soon as our suppliers have sent out the item to you. Please contact us, if you have not received any information as to the whereabouts of the item within 14 days of receiving our payment confirmation."
Why are some auctions paused during the night?
SMSBID auctions wake-up at 6am and go to sleep at 1am for the night. At 9.30pm some of our auctions turn into "Night auctions". Those auctions run throughout the night - i.e. they don't go to sleep at 1am like the others. You'll recognise these insomniac "Night auctions" as they're marked with a special logo and announced on the website at 9.30pm.
SMSBID auctions wake-up at 6am and go to sleep at 1am for the night. At 9.30pm some of our auctions turn into "Night auctions". Those auctions run throughout the night - i.e. they don't go to sleep at 1am like the others. You'll recognise these insomniac "Night auctions" as they're marked with a special logo and announced on the website at 9.30pm.
I Want To Watch Several Auctions At Once
If you want to bid simultaneously on 2 or more different auctions in different categories at once, you can. Simply choose the auctions you want to bid on and click “watch this auction” – all auctions that you want to watch will then appear in the “My SMSBID” section of the website.
If you want to bid simultaneously on 2 or more different auctions in different categories at once, you can. Simply choose the auctions you want to bid on and click “watch this auction” – all auctions that you want to watch will then appear in the “My SMSBID” section of the website.
How Can I Find The Different Auctions On The Website?
If you want to see all auctions of one type – simply go to the home page and click on the relevant auction type image – so if you want to see all “Lowest Unique Bid" or “Gridmaster” auctions, you can, at the click of a button!
If you want to see all auctions of one type – simply go to the home page and click on the relevant auction type image – so if you want to see all “Lowest Unique Bid" or “Gridmaster” auctions, you can, at the click of a button!
Ended Auctions
Browse the “Ended Auctions” category to see what we’ve sold in the last few days and for how much. This gives you a great idea of how much money you can save buy bidding on SMSBID.
Browse the “Ended Auctions” category to see what we’ve sold in the last few days and for how much. This gives you a great idea of how much money you can save buy bidding on SMSBID.
Future Auctions
Browse the future auctions page to see a list of all the auctions that will be going live soon – each one is dated so you can see exactly when they’ll be going live for you to bid on them.
Browse the future auctions page to see a list of all the auctions that will be going live soon – each one is dated so you can see exactly when they’ll be going live for you to bid on them.
Live Auctions
All live auctions are sorted into their respective categories – for example, Electronics, Cash Prizes, Concert Tickets, etc.
All live auctions are sorted into their respective categories – for example, Electronics, Cash Prizes, Concert Tickets, etc.
Is There A Maximum Number Of Auctions I Am Allowed To Win?
No way! We don’t put restrictions on how many auctions you can win. You can bid away to your hearts’ content!
No way! We don’t put restrictions on how many auctions you can win. You can bid away to your hearts’ content!
When Does An Auction End?
Auctions end when the timer reaches 0 or when the auction end date has been reached – each auction has a “must end by” date which is specified on the respective auction page.
Auctions end when the timer reaches 0 or when the auction end date has been reached – each auction has a “must end by” date which is specified on the respective auction page.
What is an "International auction"?
International auctions are open to bidders across both our mainland European and UK web sites. If a UK winner wins the auction, we’ll ship them the UK version of the product, just as described on the UK web site. As international auctions are priced in Euros in mainland Europe where the price rises by 7 pence with each bid placed, here in the UK we increase the price by 7 pence with each bid placed. (for those of you used to converting cash for holidays, this means we use of a conversion rate of approximately £1 = €1.43)
International auctions are open to bidders across both our mainland European and UK web sites. If a UK winner wins the auction, we’ll ship them the UK version of the product, just as described on the UK web site. As international auctions are priced in Euros in mainland Europe where the price rises by 7 pence with each bid placed, here in the UK we increase the price by 7 pence with each bid placed. (for those of you used to converting cash for holidays, this means we use of a conversion rate of approximately £1 = €1.43)
Will I be shipped a different version of an item if I win an international auction?
If you win an international auction and you're a UK bidder (i.e. bidding on SMSBID.co.uk), you'll be shipped the item exactly as described in the English auction description: this will be a version suitable for use in the UK. If a bidder from mainland Europe were to win the auction, we'd ship them a European version of the item.
If you win an international auction and you're a UK bidder (i.e. bidding on SMSBID.co.uk), you'll be shipped the item exactly as described in the English auction description: this will be a version suitable for use in the UK. If a bidder from mainland Europe were to win the auction, we'd ship them a European version of the item.
How can I tell the difference between a local auction and an international auction?
International auctions are marked with an "International Auction" flag, so that you can easily tell which auctions are open to everyone, and which ones are exclusively for bidders in the UK.
International auctions are marked with an "International Auction" flag, so that you can easily tell which auctions are open to everyone, and which ones are exclusively for bidders in the UK.
What are the recommended PC requirements to use
SMSBID?
You can participate in SMSBID auctions with nearly all PCs that allow you to access the internet:
Supported system software:
You can participate in SMSBID auctions with nearly all PCs that allow you to access the internet:
Supported system software:
- Windows Vista / Windows XP / Windows 2000
- Mac OS X 10.3 or higher
- Linux
- Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher
- Firefox 2.0 or higher
- Opera 8.0 or higher
- Safari 2.0 or higher
- 512k broadband connection or faster
Why hasn't my bid been registered on an auction?
Very occasionally, users tell us that even though they bid before the countdown ended, their bids did not get placed and the auction ends. In these instances, the most likely explanation is so-called "Internet lag times". These are time-delays in the transfer of data between your PC and our servers. Mostly those delays (lags) occur because single parts of the internet connection are overloaded.
This, unfortunately, is a general problem with the internet.
There are a few ways of helping minimise this problem:
Very occasionally, users tell us that even though they bid before the countdown ended, their bids did not get placed and the auction ends. In these instances, the most likely explanation is so-called "Internet lag times". These are time-delays in the transfer of data between your PC and our servers. Mostly those delays (lags) occur because single parts of the internet connection are overloaded.
This, unfortunately, is a general problem with the internet.
There are a few ways of helping minimise this problem:
- While bidding on SMSBID do not download large data such as video or audio files from the internet.
- Don't send emails with large attachments while bidding on SMSBID.
- Make sure that no other users such as family members, etc. are using the internet while you are bidding.
How long are Free Bids valid for?
Free Bids that are awarded during SMSBID marketing promotions normally expire 7 days after they were issued. Occasionally there may be Free Bids with a shorter validity, but this will be clearly displayed.
Free Bids that are won as auctions have no expiry date and are valid indefinitely.
When bidding, any Free Bids in your account are always placed before purchased bids.
Free Bids that are awarded during SMSBID marketing promotions normally expire 7 days after they were issued. Occasionally there may be Free Bids with a shorter validity, but this will be clearly displayed.
Free Bids that are won as auctions have no expiry date and are valid indefinitely.
When bidding, any Free Bids in your account are always placed before purchased bids.
I can't confirm my registration using the link in the registration confirmation email. What should I do?
It might be that your email program shows the link in your registration mail as faulty. If this happens, just copy the complete link in to the address line of your internet browser and press 'Enter'. If this doesn't work, please get in touch with our customer service team, letting us know the email address that you used to register.
It might be that your email program shows the link in your registration mail as faulty. If this happens, just copy the complete link in to the address line of your internet browser and press 'Enter'. If this doesn't work, please get in touch with our customer service team, letting us know the email address that you used to register.
How do I activate Cookies?
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7.0+
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0+
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.x
Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.x
Mozilla Firefox 2.0+
Mozilla Firefox (1.0 final release and earlier)
Netscape 7.1/Mozilla 5.0
To enable cookies, please follow the instructions below for the internet browser version you are using.
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7.0+
- Select Tools from the pull-down menu in your browser.
- Select Internet Options. The Internet Options dialog will appear.
- Select the Privacy tab. Under Settings, click Advanced.
- Check Override automatic cookie handling under Cookies section in Advanced Privacy Settings window.
- Under First-party Cookies, select Accept. Under Third-party Cookies, select Accept. Check Always allow session cookies.
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0+
- Select "Internet Options" from the Tools menu.
- Click on the "Privacy" tab.
- Click the "Default" button (or manually slide the bar down to "Medium") under "Settings".
- Click "OK".
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.x
- Select "Internet Options" from the Tools menu.
- Click on the "Security" tab.
- Click the "Custom Level" button.
- Scroll down to the "Cookies" section.
- Set "Allow cookies that are stored on your computer" to "Enable".
- Set "Allow per-session cookies" to "Enable".
- Click "OK".
Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.x
- Select "Internet Options" from the View menu.
- Click on the "Advanced" tab.
- Scroll down to find "Cookies" within the "Security" section.
- Select "Always accept cookies".
- Click "OK".
Mozilla Firefox 2.0+
- Go to the "Tools" menu.
- Select "Options".
- Select the Privacy tab.
- Make sure that the Accept cookies from sites under Cookies is ticked (the default setting).
- Click "OK" to save changes.
Mozilla Firefox (1.0 final release and earlier)
- Go to the "Tools" menu.
- Select "Options".
- Select the "Privacy" icon in the left panel.
- Check the box corresponding to "Allow sites to set cookies".
- Click "OK" to save changes.
Netscape 7.1/Mozilla 5.0
- Select "Preferences" from the Edit menu.
- Click on the arrow next to "Privacy & Security" in the scrolling window to expand.
- Under "Privacy & Security", select "Cookies."
- Select "Enable all cookies".
- Click "OK".
Protect yourself
Important security notice: Employees of SMSBID will never ask you for your password in emails or on the phone. Consequently, please do not send your password to anyone and don't hesitate to contact our customer service at customer.support@smsbid.com if you receive such a message.
Important security notice: Employees of SMSBID will never ask you for your password in emails or on the phone. Consequently, please do not send your password to anyone and don't hesitate to contact our customer service at customer.support@smsbid.com if you receive such a message.
What's the danger of fake emails (Spoof und Phishing)?
Such emails, also called "Phishing" or "Spoofing" emails are sent in order to illegally obtain confidential information such as passwords or credit card details. Please be highly suspicious if you're asked in an email for such confidential data.
Such emails, also called "Phishing" or "Spoofing" emails are sent in order to illegally obtain confidential information such as passwords or credit card details. Please be highly suspicious if you're asked in an email for such confidential data.
How do I know if an email was sent by SMSBID or not?
All emails that are sent by us and which contain personal information will always include a personal communication ID. This key has to match your own personal communication key, which you will find under "My SMSBID->My data". Please contact our customer service at customer.support@smsbid.com, in case the two keys don't match.
All emails that are sent by us and which contain personal information will always include a personal communication ID. This key has to match your own personal communication key, which you will find under "My SMSBID->My data". Please contact our customer service at customer.support@smsbid.com, in case the two keys don't match.
How do I recognise a fake email entailing a request for payment?
Payments to SMSBID can only be made via the smsbid.com website. Please don't respond to any emails, which ask you to transfer money via direct debit or Western Union.
Payments to SMSBID can only be made via the smsbid.com website. Please don't respond to any emails, which ask you to transfer money via direct debit or Western Union.
What should I do, if I receive a suspicious email?
• You should never click on a link in such an email. The links in these emails may lead to websites which are designed to obtain your personal data illegally or to commit another related crime.
• Please forward such emails to customer.support@smsbid.com. SMSBID will check those emails and inform you if it was sent by SMSBID or not.
• You should never click on a link in such an email. The links in these emails may lead to websites which are designed to obtain your personal data illegally or to commit another related crime.
• Please forward such emails to customer.support@smsbid.com. SMSBID will check those emails and inform you if it was sent by SMSBID or not.
