Junk Mail Marketplace brings buyers and sellers together. It’s as simple as that. But on a deeper level, we also strive to ensure quality ads on our platform, and we incorporate several checkpoints for new adverts to pass through before they go live. We do this to ensure that every ad on Junk Mail gives interested buyers all the information they need in order to decide if they want to contact the seller. These checkpoints also allow us to filter out any ads we suspect might be scams or problematic to some extent. Our dedicated moderation team is extremely good at weeding out suspicious adverts, but we still want to encourage anybody who makes use of online marketplaces to take precautions when reaching out to sellers about items they are interested in.

Photo credit: rupixen .com on Unsplash

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you start the process of buying something from an online marketplace. We hope you have a safe and scam-free experience!

1. First contact

During first contact, usually via email or phone, express your interest in the item and ask any questions you have regarding the item’s condition and history. Consider asking for additional images as well. Do not share any personal information that is not relevant to the exchange and delete sensitive information from your email signature. You may need to reveal further information about yourself once you feel comfortable that the seller has provided sufficient information to advance the transaction. Keep things as simple as possible. In addition to connecting via email, we recommend calling the seller before meeting with them. Do not complete a transaction based on email communication only.

2. Meeting up

We advise you to not pay for an item you have not seen or inspected. Meet during daylight and in a public setting. If you are still unsure about the security, then you can arrange to meet in front of or near a police station. Bring a friend or family member with you, and always let someone know where you're going if you need to visit the seller’s house to pick up a large item. A good option is to send somebody your live location via WhatsApp. You might also consider sharing the contact information and ad details of the seller you are meeting with someone you trust.

3. Examining and evaluating the product

Make sure to do your research. It will help to determine an item’s market value in advance so you can gauge whether you are getting a fair deal. Don’t be hesitant to bargain or haggle over the price, but avoid insulting the seller by offering an absurdly low price. Always check the item thoroughly in person before purchasing it.

IF PURCHASING A VEHICLE: Ask about and examine the automobile’s history. Test drive the vehicle and, as an added measure of security, make sure it is registered in the seller’s name. If you see any red flags, do not continue with the transaction.

IF PURCHASING AN ANIMAL: Check the pet’s medical history and pedigree documents as well as the condition of the parents or other animals on the property.

IF RENTING A PROPERTY: Always view the property in full, interior, and exterior. Do not pay a holding or reservation fee without having visited the property in person.

4. Closing the Deal and Payment

When possible, it’s advisable to transact in cash and to keep things simple. In the case of large transactions, like automotive or property rental, avoid using random money transfer options. Opt to go through a recognised bank for any payments.

Photo by Antony Trivet on Unsplash

Buying and selling via an online marketplace like Junk Mail is the new norm, and we should all keep the abovementioned in mind. Be Smart. Be Savvy. Be Safe. By following our tips, you can make the safest and best choices for you. If you see or experience something that makes you hesitate, please report it to the Junk Mail Marketplaces Moderation Team at moderation@junkmail.co.za. Visit Junk Mail to find what you’re looking for right now.