Terms & Conditions

1. Definitions

• "UbuntuMarket" refers to the UbuntuMarket platform, website, and services
• "User" means any person who accesses or uses UbuntuMarket
• "Buyer" means a User who purchases items on UbuntuMarket
• "Seller" means a User who has been verified and approved to list items for sale
• "Listing" means an item posted for sale by a Seller
• "Order" means a confirmed purchase transaction between Buyer and Seller
• "Platform Fee" means the 10% commission charged by UbuntuMarket on each sale

2. Acceptance of Terms

By creating an account or using UbuntuMarket in any way, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree, you may not use the platform.

We reserve the right to update these terms at any time. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the new terms.

3. Marketplace Model

UbuntuMarket is a peer-to-peer marketplace. We facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers but are not a party to any transaction. UbuntuMarket does not own, inspect, or warrant any items listed on the platform.

UbuntuMarket is not responsible for the quality, safety, legality, or accuracy of listings, nor for the ability of sellers to sell or buyers to pay.

4. User Accounts

• You must be at least 18 years old to create an account
• You must provide accurate and complete information when registering
• You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account and password
• You may not share your account with others or create multiple accounts
• UbuntuMarket reserves the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms
• Your welcome voucher (R70) is valid for one use per account on your first order only

5. Seller Terms

5.1 Verification

To become a seller you must apply and be approved by UbuntuMarket. We verify sellers using their SA ID or passport number. Approval is at our sole discretion.

5.2 Listing Requirements

• All listings must accurately describe the item including all defects and wear
• Photos must be of the actual item being sold no stock photos
• Prices must be in South African Rand (ZAR)
• You may only list items you legally own and have the right to sell
• Duplicate listings are not permitted

5.3 Shipping

• Sellers must ship items within 3 business days of payment confirmation
• Sellers must add a tracking number via their My Sales dashboard
• Sellers are responsible for safe and appropriate packaging

5.4 Platform Fee

UbuntuMarket charges a 10% platform fee on each sale. This is deducted from your payout. Your net payout is shown on your My Sales dashboard and in your order notification emails.

5.5 Payouts

Seller payouts are processed after successful delivery confirmation. Payouts are made via EFT to the seller's registered bank account within 3–5 business days of delivery confirmation.

6. Buyer Terms

• By placing an order you agree to pay the full amount including delivery fees
• You acknowledge that all items are pre-loved and sold as described
• Payment must be completed within 24 hours of placing an order
• Uncompleted payments will result in order cancellation
• All sales are final unless covered under our Returns Policy
• You must inspect items within 48 hours of delivery and raise any disputes promptly

7. Payments & Fees

7.1 Payment Processing

All payments are processed securely through PayFast. UbuntuMarket does not store your card or banking details.

7.2 Delivery Fees

• Standard Delivery: R80 (FREE on orders R600+)
• Express Delivery: R150
• PostNet to PostNet: R75 (FREE on orders R600+)
• Pudo Locker: R75 (FREE on orders R600+)
• Collection: FREE

7.3 Platform Commission

UbuntuMarket charges sellers a 10% commission on the item subtotal (excluding delivery). This is deducted before payout to the seller.

7.4 Welcome Voucher

New users receive a R70 welcome voucher on registration. The voucher is valid for one use on your first order only and cannot be combined with other promotions.

8. Prohibited Items

The following items may not be listed on UbuntuMarket:

• Counterfeit, replica, or fake branded goods
• Stolen goods
• Weapons, firearms, or ammunition
• Illegal drugs or substances
• Adult content or services
• Live animals
• Hazardous materials
• Items that infringe intellectual property rights
• Food and perishables
• Prescription medication

Listings of prohibited items will be removed immediately and the seller's account may be suspended or banned.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, UbuntuMarket shall not be liable for:

• Any loss or damage arising from transactions between buyers and sellers
• The quality, condition, or authenticity of any item sold
• Delays in delivery by third-party couriers
• Loss of data, profits, or business
• Any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages

Our total liability in any matter is limited to the value of the transaction in dispute.

10. Privacy

We collect and process personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa. By using UbuntuMarket you consent to our collection and use of your information as described in our Privacy Policy.

We do not sell your personal information to third parties. Your information is used solely to facilitate transactions and improve the platform.

11. Termination

UbuntuMarket reserves the right to suspend or terminate any account at any time for violation of these terms, fraudulent activity, or any behaviour deemed harmful to the platform or its users.

You may delete your account at any time by contacting us at support@ubuntumarketplace.co.za.

12. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes arising from these terms shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the South African courts.

13. Contact Us

For any questions about these Terms and Conditions:

• Email: support@ubuntumarketplace.co.za
• Address: Mbombela, Mpumalanga, South Africa
• Response time: 2 business days