Lot Number
A Lot Number is a unique identifying number assigned to items being sold at auction. Think of it as an item's 'name tag' during an auction sale. When people working in auction houses mention lot numbers on their resumes, they're talking about their experience in cataloging, tracking, and managing auction items. This system helps keep track of items from when they first arrive at the auction house until they're sold. It's similar to how retail stores use SKU numbers, but specifically for the auction industry. The lot number system is fundamental to organizing auctions, whether they're for art, antiques, real estate, or other valuable items.
Examples in Resumes
Managed documentation and tracking for over 500 Lot Numbers per auction season
Created detailed descriptions and provenance records for Lot Number entries in auction catalogs
Supervised intake process and Lot Number assignment for major estate sales
Typical job title: "Auction Catalogers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Auction Catalogers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where an item's provenance is questioned after lot numbers have been assigned and catalogs printed?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain their crisis management process, including documentation review, stakeholder communication, and ability to make quick decisions about pulling items if necessary while maintaining auction schedule integrity.
Q: Describe your experience in managing a high-volume auction catalog production process.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in coordinating between specialists, photographers, writers, and designers, while maintaining accurate lot number tracking and meeting strict deadlines.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What systems have you used to track lot numbers and how do you ensure accuracy?
Expected Answer: Should describe experience with auction management software, quality control processes, and methods for maintaining accurate records across multiple auctions.
Q: How do you prioritize lot number assignments for a large estate sale?
Expected Answer: Should explain their organizational approach, including categorization methods, value assessment considerations, and how they maintain efficiency while ensuring accuracy.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information needs to be recorded when assigning a lot number?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic elements like item description, dimensions, condition, provenance, estimated value, and any supporting documentation.
Q: Explain the process of preparing lots for an auction catalog.
Expected Answer: Should describe basic steps of photographing items, writing descriptions, checking details with specialists, and ensuring accurate lot number assignment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic lot number assignment and tracking
- Data entry and record keeping
- Basic auction catalog preparation
- Understanding of auction procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced catalog production
- Condition reporting
- Auction software proficiency
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Auction planning and management
- Team supervision
- Crisis management
- Advanced provenance research
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic auction procedures
- Lack of attention to detail in tracking and documentation
- Poor understanding of cataloging standards
- No experience with auction management software
