Trading Journey

This guide explains the complete process for trading items on RTC Collector, where two users exchange items from their collections without involving cash. Trades follow a secure dual-shipping system that protects both parties by requiring sequential shipping confirmations.

Journey Overview

Trading involves two users exchanging items from their personal collections:

Buyer (Initiator) - Proposes trading one of their items for the seller's listed item Seller (Listing Owner) - Lists item accepting trades, reviews trade proposals

Trade Flow Types

Shipped Trades (5-Step Process)

Standard trades where both parties ship items:

1. Provide Shipping Addresses - Both users submit addresses
2. Buyer Ships First - Buyer ships their item with tracking
3. Seller Confirms Receipt - Seller confirms buyer's item arrived
4. Seller Ships Second - Seller ships their item with tracking
5. Buyer Confirms Receipt - Buyer confirms seller's item arrived → Trade complete

Timeline: 10-20 business days (depends on handling time + shipping speed for both shipments)

Collection-Only Trades (Single-Step Process)

Local trades where users meet in person:

1. Coordinate Meeting - Message to arrange location and time
2. Meet and Exchange - Exchange items in person
3. Mark as Collected - Either party confirms exchange → Trade complete

Timeline: Flexible (depends on scheduling)

Prerequisites

To Propose a Trade:

• Active COLLECTOR or ENTHUSIAST subscription
• Email address verified
• Item in your collection not already listed
• Listing accepts trades (Trade or Both type)

To Accept a Trade:

• Stripe Connect account configured (for protection/escrow)
• Active COLLECTOR or ENTHUSIAST subscription
• Email address verified

Step 1: Proposing a Trade

Finding Tradeable Listings

Marketplace Filters:

Search for listings accepting trades:

1. Navigate to Marketplace
2. Apply filter: Listing Type → Trade or Both
3. Browse available listings
4. Look for purple "Trade Only" or "or Trade" badges

Listing Types:

• Trade Only (Purple badge) - Only accepts trades, no cash
• Both (Green price + Purple "or Trade") - Accepts cash or trade offers
• For Sale (Green price only) - Cash only, no trades accepted

Viewing Listing Details

Click on listing to open detail page:

• Review item specifications
• Check condition and images
• Read seller description
• Verify shipping method (Shipped vs. Collection Only)
• Check seller location (for collection trades)

Propose Trade Button

Located on listing page:

• Purple button with arrows icon
• Text: "Propose Trade"
• Opens trade modal

Requirements Check:

• HOBBYIST tier: Marketplace Locked Interstitial appears
• COLLECTOR/ENTHUSIAST: Trade modal opens
• Must have verified email

Trade Proposal Modal

Modal displays:

• Seller's item name at top
• "Select an item from your collection to trade"
• List of your eligible items

Loading Your Items:

System fetches collection items that:

• Are not currently listed in marketplace
• Are owned by you
• Are available for trading

If No Items:

• "You don't have any items available for trading"
• "Add items to your collection first" message
• Close modal, add items, return

Item Selection:

Scrollable list shows each eligible item:

• Item thumbnail image (12×12 size)
• Item name
• Category (Console, Computer, Handheld, etc.)
• Condition badge

Selecting Item:

1. Click item card in list
2. Selected item highlights with blue border and primary background
3. Can change selection before submitting
4. Only one item can be selected

Trade Description (Required)

Description Field:

• Large text area
• Required field (cannot submit without)
• Placeholder: "Describe the condition, any accessories included, or other details about your item..."

What to Include:

• Item condition (scratches, wear, damage)
• Completeness (box, manual, cables, accessories)
• Functionality status (tested, working perfectly, etc.)
• Any defects or issues
• Additional details seller should know

Why Required:

• Photos don't show everything
• Seller needs full context
• Sets proper expectations
• Prevents disputes
• Builds trust

Example Description:

Excellent condition Game Boy Advance SP (Blue). Original box included
with minor shelf wear. Console is like new with no scratches on screen
or body. Includes original AC charger and manual. Battery holds full
charge (tested recently). Fully functional, all buttons responsive.
Hinge tight, no wobble. Screen has no dead pixels. Very clean unit.

Submitting Trade Proposal

Submit Process:

1. Select item from your collection
2. Write detailed description (required)
3. Review your selection
4. Click Propose Trade button

Validation:

• Must have item selected
• Must have description entered
• If missing: Error toast appears

Success:

• Toast: "Your trade proposal has been sent to the seller"
• Modal closes
• Returns to listing page
• Proposal enters seller's Offers queue

After Submission

Your Offer Status: PENDING

Seller reviews your proposal in their Offers tab:

• Sees your item details
• Reads your description
• Views your item images
• Checks your condition notes

Seller Can:

• Accept (creates trade transaction)
• Decline (no transaction)
• Counter-offer (propose your item + cash, or different item)
• Message you for more details

You Can:

• Wait for seller response
• Message seller to discuss trade
• Make additional offers on other listings
• Buy listing with cash instead (cancels trade proposal)

Tracking Offer Status:

View in Marketplace → Offers tab:

• PENDING - Awaiting seller decision
• ACCEPTED - Seller agreed, trade transaction created
• DECLINED - Seller rejected proposal
• COUNTERED - Seller proposed alternative terms

Trade Accepted

When Seller Accepts:

• Trade transaction created
• Both items locked from marketplace
• Cannot list either item while trade active
• Transaction status: AWAITING_SHIPPING_INFO
• Both users notified via email
• Navigate to transaction page

Step 2A: Shipped Trades - Provide Shipping Address

For Collection-Only trades, skip to Step 2B below.

Accessing Trade Transaction

From Email Notification:

• Click link in email notification
• Opens transaction detail page

From Marketplace:

1. Navigate to Marketplace
2. Click Purchases tab (if you're the buyer) or Sales tab (if you're the seller)
3. Find trade transaction
4. Click to open detail page

Transaction Detail Page

Page Shows:

Trade Status Tracker:

• 5-step progress indicator
• Current step highlighted and pulsing
• Completed steps show green checkmark
• Future steps show step number

Step 1 Highlighted:

• "Shipping Addresses"
• "Both parties provide shipping addresses"
• Pulsing blue indicator
• "Current Step" badge

Action Button:

• Provide Shipping Address button
• Located in right sidebar under "Actions"
• Primary blue color

Shipping Address Modal

Opening Modal:

1. Click Provide Shipping Address button
2. Modal appears with form

If Other Party Already Provided:

• Blue info banner at top
• "The other party has already provided their shipping address"
• You're the last one needed

Address Form Fields:

Street Address:

• Min 5 characters, max 200
• Must include street number
• Example: "123 Main Street" or "456 Oak Ave, Apt 4B"
• Validation error if no number

City:

• Min 2 characters, max 100
• Letters, spaces, hyphens, apostrophes only
• Example: "New York" or "Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu"

State/Province:

• Min 2 characters, max 100
• Example: "California" or "CA" or "Ontario"

ZIP/Postal Code:

• Min 3 characters, max 10
• Country-specific validation:
  • US: 12345 or 12345-6789 format
  • Canada: A1A 1A1 format
  • UK: SW1A 1AA format
• Validation error if incorrect format for selected country

Country:

• Dropdown selection
• 18 common countries available
• 2-letter country code (US, CA, GB, AU, etc.)
• Defaults to US

Phone Number:

• Min 10 digits, max 15 digits
• Format: +1 (555) 123-4567 or 5551234567
• Allows spaces, hyphens, parentheses, plus sign
• Validation counts only digits

Saved Address Option

If Marketplace Profile Has Address:

Checkbox appears: Use saved marketplace address

• Check to auto-fill form with saved address
• Uncheck to clear and enter custom address
• Toggles between saved and custom

Auto-Fill:

• Street, City, State, ZIP, Country, Phone populate
• All fields editable even when using saved address
• Can modify any field before submitting

Address Validation (Recommended)

Validate Address Button:

• Located below form fields
• Click to verify address with carrier APIs
• Optional but highly recommended

Validation Process:

1. Click Validate Address button
2. Button shows spinner: "Validating..."
3. System sends to Shippo API
4. Response in 2-5 seconds

Validation Results:

Valid Address:

• Green checkmark appears
• "Address validated" status
• Success toast: "Address is valid and deliverable"
• Proceed with confidence

Invalid Address:

• Red X appears
• "Validation failed" status
• Error message explains issue
• Common issues:
  • Missing apartment number
  • Incorrect ZIP code
  • Street name misspelled
  • City/state mismatch
• Fix errors and validate again

Unvalidated Submission:

If you submit without validating:

• Confirmation dialog appears
• "Address has not been validated. We recommend validating your address to ensure successful delivery. Continue anyway?"
• Click OK to proceed or Cancel to validate first

Why Validate:

• Prevents undeliverable packages
• Catches typos before shipping
• Ensures carrier can locate address
• Reduces delivery failures
• Protects your item

Submitting Shipping Address

Submit Process:

1. Complete all required fields
2. Validate address (recommended)
3. Click Submit Address button

During Submission:

• Button shows spinner: "Submitting..."
• Form fields disabled
• Cannot close modal

Success:

• Green toast: "Shipping address submitted successfully"
• Modal closes
• Transaction page refreshes
• Your address marked as provided

After Both Provide Addresses:

• Step 1 complete (green checkmark)
• Step 2 becomes current step
• Status: AWAITING_SHIPPING_INFO → READY_TO_SHIP_FIRST
• Buyer can now ship first item

Step 2B: Collection-Only Trades - Arrange Meeting

For Shipped trades, skip this section.

Collection Trade Flow

Status after acceptance: Transaction created, ready to coordinate

Trade Status Tracker shows:

• House icon
• "Collection in Progress" heading
• Instructions to coordinate meeting
• "Either party can mark as collected"

No Shipping Required:

• No addresses needed
• No tracking numbers
• No shipping costs
• Meet in person instead

Coordinate via Messages

Message Button:

• Located on transaction card or detail page
• Opens conversation with trade partner
• Discuss meeting details

What to Coordinate:

Meeting Location:

• Public place (coffee shop, mall, library)
• Well-lit area
• Busy location with other people
• Parking availability
• Accessibility

Date and Time:

• Mutually convenient
• Daytime preferred
• Weekday vs. weekend
• Duration (15-30 minutes)

Safety Precautions:

• Meet in public
• Bring a friend
• Tell someone where you're going
• Don't share personal address
• Trust your instincts

What to Bring:

• Your trade item
• Original packaging (if applicable)
• Proof of transaction (transaction ID)
• Phone with conversation open
• Friend or family member (optional)

Meeting and Exchange

At Meeting Location:

1. Verify Identity

   • Confirm username from platform
   • Show transaction details
   • Verify items match listing photos

2. Inspect Items

   • Review condition in person
   • Test functionality if possible
   • Check completeness (accessories, manuals, boxes)
   • Ask questions
   • Take your time

3. Exchange Items

   • Trade items simultaneously
   • Verify serial numbers match (if applicable)
   • Confirm everything included

4. Confirm Transaction

   • Both parties satisfied
   • No issues or concerns
   • Ready to finalize

Mark as Collected

After Successful Exchange:

Either Party Can Mark:

1. Open transaction on phone or later at home
2. Click Mark as Collected button
3. No confirmation dialog
4. Status: PAID → COMPLETED instantly
5. Trade finalized

What Happens:

• Transaction marked complete
• Both items unlocked in collections
• Can list items again if desired
• Trade journey complete
• Can rate trade partner (optional)

Note: Only one person needs to mark as collected. Once marked, transaction completes for both parties.

Step 3: Buyer Ships First (Shipped Trades)

For Collection-Only trades, this step doesn't apply.

Trade Status: READY_TO_SHIP_FIRST

Who Ships: Buyer (person who proposed the trade) ships their item first

Step 2 Highlighted:

• "You Ship Your Item" (if you're buyer)
• "Other Party Ships First" (if you're seller)
• Pulsing blue indicator
• "Current Step" badge

Shipping Responsibilities

Buyer Must:

• Package item securely
• Print or create shipping label
• Include tracking number
• Ship within reasonable timeframe (3-5 business days typical)
• Update transaction with tracking info

Good Packaging:

• Original box if available
• Bubble wrap or packing peanuts
• Sturdy outer box
• Seal all openings
• Label: "Fragile" if applicable

Marking Item as Shipped

Action Button on Transaction Page:

• Mark Item Shipped button or Create Shipping Label button
• Clicking opens ship form

Ship Item Form:

Tracking Number (Optional):

• Enter carrier tracking number
• Example: "1Z999AA10123456784" (UPS) or "9400111699000123456789" (USPS)
• Helps other party track package
• Highly recommended but not required

Carrier (Optional):

• Dropdown: USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.
• Specify which carrier
• Used for tracking link generation

Submit:

1. Enter tracking number (recommended)
2. Select carrier
3. Click Ship Item button

Without Tracking:

• Can submit with empty fields
• Less secure for both parties
• Other party cannot track package
• Rely on delivery confirmation later
• Not recommended for valuable items

Creating Shipping Label via Platform

Alternative: Create Label Through Platform

If seller configured package dimensions:

Process:

1. Click Create Shipping Label button
2. System builds label using:
   • Your saved address (from marketplace profile)
   • Other party's provided shipping address
   • Item package dimensions from seller's listing
3. Generates PDF label
4. Label cost charged to your account (varies by service)
5. Tracking number auto-populated
6. Download and print label

Advantages:

• Integrated tracking
• No manual entry
• Commercial shipping rates
• Proof of shipment
• Automatic tracking updates

After Marking Shipped

Status Update:

• Status: READY_TO_SHIP_FIRST → FIRST_ITEM_SHIPPED
• Step 2 complete (green checkmark)
• Step 3 becomes current
• Tracking number stored
• Seller notified via email

Email Notification:

• Seller receives: "Trade item shipped"
• Includes tracking number (if provided)
• Link to transaction page
• Tracking link (if carrier provided)

Buyer Responsibilities

After Shipping:

• Keep shipping receipt
• Save tracking number
• Monitor tracking progress
• Ensure package arrives
• Wait for seller confirmation

If Package Delayed:

• Contact carrier
• Investigate tracking
• Message seller with update
• Provide proof of shipment

If Package Lost:

• File claim with carrier
• Provide tracking info
• Work with carrier and seller
• May need to open dispute

Step 4: Seller Confirms Receipt (First Item)

Trade Status: FIRST_ITEM_SHIPPED

Who Confirms: Seller (listing owner) confirms receiving buyer's item

Step 3 Highlighted:

• "You Confirm Receipt" (if you're seller)
• "Other Party Confirms Receipt" (if you're buyer)
• Waiting for seller to confirm

Tracking First Shipment

Seller Monitors Delivery:

Via Transaction Page:

• Tracking number displayed
• Tracking link (if carrier provided)
• Click link to view carrier tracking page

Via Email:

• Delivery notifications from carrier
• Out for delivery alerts
• Delivered confirmation

Tracking Status Examples:

• In Transit
• Out for Delivery
• Delivered

Receiving First Item

When Package Arrives:

1. Retrieve Package

   • Sign for delivery if required
   • Check for damage
   • Photograph package exterior
   • Note any shipping damage

2. Open Carefully

   • Preserve packaging
   • Take photos during unpacking
   • Document condition
   • Keep all materials

3. Inspect Item

   • Compare to buyer's description
   • Check condition matches photos
   • Test functionality
   • Verify completeness (accessories, manuals, etc.)
   • Examine for defects or damage

4. Verify Authenticity

   • Check serial numbers
   • Verify it's the correct item
   • Not counterfeit or replica

If Item Matches Description

Confirm Receipt:

1. Open transaction detail page
2. Find Confirm Receipt button (or similar action button)
3. Click button
4. No confirmation dialog
5. Instant confirmation

What Happens:

• Status: FIRST_ITEM_SHIPPED → FIRST_ITEM_DELIVERED
• Step 3 complete (green checkmark)
• Step 4 becomes current
• Seller can now ship their item
• Buyer notified via email

Why This Matters:

• Protects buyer (ensures their item arrived safely)
• Allows trade to proceed to next step
• Builds trust between parties
• Required before seller ships

If Item Does NOT Match Description

Do NOT Confirm Receipt

Report Problem:

1. Click Report a Problem button on transaction
2. Select issue category:
   • Item not as described
   • Item damaged in shipping
   • Wrong item received
   • Counterfeit or replica
   • Other issue
3. Describe problem in detail
4. Upload photos of discrepancy
5. Submit report

What Happens:

• Seller notified of issue
• Trade paused (seller cannot ship yet)
• Platform holds trade in current state
• Work toward resolution:
  • Seller offers explanation
  • Partial trade adjustment
  • Cancel trade and return items
  • Escalate to dispute

Resolution Options:

• Continue Trade: If issue minor, proceed anyway
• Adjust Terms: Negotiate compensation
• Cancel Trade: Return buyer's item, cancel transaction
• Formal Dispute: Escalate to admin review

See Dispute Journey guide for full process.

Seller Responsibilities

After Confirming:

• Keep buyer's item safe
• Package your item for shipment
• Prepare to ship next
• Move to Step 5

Do Not:

• Confirm if item not received
• Confirm if item doesn't match
• Confirm under pressure
• Ship your item before confirming

Grace Period:

• No automatic confirmation
• Take time to inspect thoroughly
• Seller controls when to confirm
• Trade pauses until confirmation

Step 5: Seller Ships Second (Shipped Trades)

Trade Status: FIRST_ITEM_DELIVERED

Who Ships: Seller (listing owner) ships their item now

Step 4 Highlighted:

• "You Ship Your Item" (if you're seller)
• "Other Party Ships Their Item" (if you're buyer)
• Pulsing blue indicator
• "Current Step" badge

Why Buyer Ships First

Dual-Shipping Protection:

• Ensures buyer's item arrives before seller ships
• Prevents seller from receiving item without reciprocating
• Protects buyer from scam
• Seller confirms item before committing their item
• Fair exchange system

Seller Shipping Process

Same as Step 3, but Seller's Turn:

1. Package Your Item

   • Secure packaging
   • Protection for valuable item
   • Label clearly
   • Include any accessories/manuals described

2. Create Shipping Label

   • Through carrier directly, or
   • Through platform (if dimensions configured)
   • Use buyer's provided shipping address
   • Select appropriate service level

3. Mark Item as Shipped

   • Click Mark Item Shipped or Create Shipping Label
   • Enter tracking number (highly recommended)
   • Select carrier
   • Submit

Tracking Number Strongly Recommended:

• Buyer can monitor delivery
• Proof of shipment
• Prevents disputes
• Professional practice

After Marking Shipped

Status Update:

• Status: FIRST_ITEM_DELIVERED → SECOND_ITEM_SHIPPED
• Step 4 complete (green checkmark)
• Step 5 becomes current (final step)
• Buyer notified via email

Email to Buyer:

• "Trade item shipped"
• Tracking number (if provided)
• Estimated delivery date
• Link to transaction

Seller's Final Steps

After Shipping:

• Keep buyer's item in collection (trade item)
• Monitor tracking for your shipment
• Wait for buyer confirmation
• Be available for questions

If Package Issues:

• Contact carrier if delayed
• Provide updates to buyer
• File claim if lost
• Work toward resolution

Step 6: Buyer Confirms Receipt (Second Item)

Trade Status: SECOND_ITEM_SHIPPED

Who Confirms: Buyer confirms receiving seller's item (final step)

Step 5 Highlighted:

• "You Confirm Receipt" (if you're buyer)
• "Other Party Confirms Receipt" (if you're seller)
• Waiting for buyer to confirm

Tracking Second Shipment

Buyer Monitors Delivery:

Same process as Step 4 (when seller tracked first item):

• View tracking on transaction page
• Click tracking link for carrier updates
• Receive delivery notifications
• Out for delivery alerts

Receiving Second Item

When Package Arrives:

1. Retrieve Package

   • Sign if required
   • Check exterior for damage
   • Photograph package

2. Open and Inspect

   • Careful unpacking
   • Compare to listing description
   • Check condition vs. photos
   • Test functionality
   • Verify completeness

3. Confirm Match

   • Item as described
   • Condition accurate
   • No defects beyond disclosure
   • Everything included

If Item Matches Description

Confirm Receipt - Trade Complete:

1. Open transaction detail page
2. Click Confirm Receipt button
3. Instant confirmation
4. Trade finalized

Final Status Update:

• Status: SECOND_ITEM_SHIPPED → COMPLETED
• Step 5 complete (green checkmark)
• All steps completed
• Green success alert appears
• Both parties notified

Success Message:

Trade completed successfully! You can now rate the other party.

What Happens:

• Both items finalized in collections
• Items unlocked (can list again if desired)
• Trade journey complete
• Can rate trade partner (optional)
• Transaction archived

Email Notifications:

• Both users receive trade completion email
• Confirmation of successful trade
• Option to rate partner
• Transaction record

If Item Does NOT Match Description

Do NOT Confirm Receipt

Report Problem:

1. Leave status as SECOND_ITEM_SHIPPED
2. Click Report a Problem button
3. Select issue category
4. Document with photos
5. Explain discrepancy
6. Submit report

Resolution Process:

• Seller notified
• Work toward solution
• Options:
  • Return seller's item for refund (both return items)
  • Partial adjustment
  • Keep despite issues (confirm with note)
  • Formal dispute

Dispute Escalation:

• If no resolution with seller
• Open formal dispute
• Admin reviews evidence
• Binding decision
• Items may be returned

See Dispute Journey guide.

Rating Trade Partner (Optional)

Note: Rating system mentioned in features but may not be fully implemented. Expected functionality described below.

After Trade Completes

Rate Partner:

• Navigate to completed trade transaction
• Click Rate Partner button
• Rating modal opens

Rating Form

Star Rating (1-5 stars):

• 5 stars - Excellent trade partner
• 4 stars - Good experience
• 3 stars - Acceptable
• 2 stars - Poor experience
• 1 star - Very poor, problems

Written Review (Optional):

• Describe trade experience
• Item condition accuracy
• Communication quality
• Shipping promptness
• Packaging quality
• Overall impression

Submit:

1. Select stars
2. Write review (optional)
3. Click Submit Rating
4. Posted to partner's profile
5. Cannot edit after submission

Rating Guidelines

Be Honest:

• Rate based on actual experience
• Fair assessment
• Consider all aspects

Be Specific:

• Mention what went well
• Note any issues
• Help future traders

Be Professional:

• Respectful tone
• Constructive feedback
• No personal attacks

Troubleshooting

Trade Proposal Not Sending

No Items Available:

• You haven't added items to collection
• All items already listed in marketplace
• Solution: Add items, unlist others

Modal Closes Without Submitting:

• Missing description
• No item selected
• Check required fields

Error: Cannot Propose Trade:

• HOBBYIST tier (upgrade required)
• Email not verified (verify in Settings)
• Listing no longer available
• Seller blocked you

Shipping Address Issues

Address Won't Validate:

• Check spelling of street name
• Include apartment/unit number
• Verify ZIP code matches city/state
• Try different format
• Can submit unvalidated (with warning)

Saved Address Not Loading:

• Marketplace profile incomplete
• Update profile in Marketplace Settings
• Re-check "Use saved address" checkbox

Cannot Submit Address:

• Missing required fields
• Phone number incorrect format (needs 10-15 digits)
• ZIP code wrong format for country
• Review validation errors

Shipping Problems

Package Not Arriving:

• Check tracking status
• Contact carrier
• Verify address correct
• Wait 2-3 days past estimate
• Message trade partner

Package Lost:

• Wait 7 days past expected delivery
• File claim with carrier
• Contact trade partner
• May need to open dispute
• Keep all shipping documentation

Package Damaged:

• Photograph damage immediately
• Don't discard packaging
• Document condition
• Report to carrier
• Message trade partner
• File insurance claim (if insured)

Confirmation Issues

Cannot Confirm Receipt:

• Status must be correct (FIRST_ITEM_SHIPPED or SECOND_ITEM_SHIPPED)
• Must be logged in
• Button may be loading
• Try refreshing page

Accidentally Confirmed Too Early:

• Cannot undo confirmation
• Contact trade partner immediately
• Explain situation
• Work toward resolution
• May need admin assistance

Other Party Won't Confirm:

• Item may not have arrived yet
• They may be inspecting
• Check tracking delivery date
• Message to ask status
• Wait reasonable time (3-5 days after delivery)
• Can open dispute if no response after 7 days

Trade Stuck in Progress

Waiting on Other Party:

• Step 1: Other party hasn't provided address (message them)
• Step 3: Seller hasn't confirmed your item (package may be delayed)
• Step 5: Buyer hasn't confirmed your item (package may be delayed)
• Message trade partner for update
• Check tracking if applicable

Long Delays:

• Reasonable time for each step:
  • Address: 3-5 days
  • Shipping: 3-7 days after address provided
  • Confirmation: 1-3 days after delivery
• If delays exceed reasonable time, message partner
• If no response, open dispute after 7-10 days

Dispute Situations

When to Open Dispute:

• Item significantly different from description
• Item damaged and not disclosed
• Wrong item received
• Counterfeit or fake item
• Other party not responding (7+ days)
• Other party refusing to ship
• Other serious issue

How to Open:

1. Click Report a Problem or Open Dispute
2. Select category
3. Provide detailed explanation
4. Upload photos/evidence
5. Submit

Dispute Process:

• Platform admins review
• Both parties present evidence
• Admin makes binding decision
• May require item returns
• Refunds or trade completion

See Dispute Journey guide for complete process.

Best Practices

Proposing Trades

Select Appropriate Item:

• Fair value trade
• Similar condition
• Comparable rarity
• Seller likely interested

Write Detailed Description:

• Complete honesty about condition
• Mention any defects
• List all accessories
• Professional presentation

Take Quality Photos:

• Upload before proposing
• Multiple angles
• Show condition clearly
• Include accessories

During Trade

Communicate Promptly:

• Respond to messages within 24 hours
• Provide updates
• Be courteous
• Answer questions

Ship Quickly:

• Within 3-5 business days
• Use tracking
• Package securely
• Send tracking number immediately

Confirm Honestly:

• Inspect thoroughly before confirming
• Don't confirm if issues exist
• Report problems immediately
• Be fair in assessments

Packaging and Shipping

Good Packaging:

• Original box if available
• Bubble wrap or packing peanuts
• Sturdy outer box
• Seal all edges with tape
• Label "Fragile" for delicate items

Always Include Tracking:

• Protects both parties
• Proof of delivery
• Prevents disputes
• Professional practice

Choose Appropriate Service:

• Faster for valuable items
• Insurance for expensive items
• Signature required for high-value items
• Consider shipping costs

Safety (Collection Trades)

Meet Safely:

• Public, well-lit location
• Daytime preferred
• Bring a friend
• Tell someone where you're going

Don't:

• Give out personal address
• Meet in isolated areas
• Bring large amounts of cash
• Ignore warning signs

Trust Your Instincts:

• Cancel if uncomfortable
• Report suspicious behavior
• Safety over trade

FAQ

Can I propose cash + item trade?

Not directly. Listing must accept trades. Seller can counter-offer requesting cash + your item.

Can I cancel a trade after it starts?

Only by mutual agreement or through dispute process. Unilateral cancellation not allowed once addresses provided or items shipped.

What if the other person ships a fake item?

Do not confirm receipt. Report problem immediately. Open dispute with evidence. Admin will review and decide.

Can I ship both items at the same time?

No. Sequential shipping required. Buyer ships first, seller confirms, then seller ships. Protects both parties.

What happens if my item gets lost in shipping?

File claim with carrier. Work with trade partner. May need to dispute. If insured, insurance covers loss. Platform may assist in resolution.

Do I pay for my own shipping?

Yes. Each party pays to ship their item. No money exchanged. Both handle their own shipping costs.

Can I trade multiple items at once?

One item per trade transaction. For multiple items, would need separate trade proposals or negotiate custom terms.

What if I change my mind after accepting?

Cannot cancel unilaterally. Must discuss with trade partner. Mutual cancellation possible before shipping. After shipping, must complete or dispute.

How long do I have to confirm receipt?

No automatic deadline. Take time to inspect properly. Reasonable expectation: 1-3 days after delivery. Don't confirm if issues exist.

Can I rate my trade partner?

Yes (feature may be in development). After trade completes, option to rate partner appears. Ratings help build reputation.

Related Topics

• Complete Buying Journey - Buying with cash
• Complete Selling Journey - Selling items
• Dispute Journey - Resolving trade problems
• Collection Management - Managing your items
• Messaging System - Communicating with trade partners
• Marketplace Fees - No fees on trades
• Shipping Options - Shipping methods and carriers