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FlipSell aims to scam-proof online classifieds

Sibahle Malinga
By Sibahle Malinga, ITWeb senior news journalist.
Johannesburg, 01 Jul 2016
FlipSell collects the goods from the seller and delivers to the buyer without the two ever meeting.
FlipSell collects the goods from the seller and delivers to the buyer without the two ever meeting.

FlipSell, a new scam-free classified Web site, aims to take away the hassle and unease of dealing with a stranger when buying items online.

Fraud, theft and personal security are some of the issues consumers contend with when buying or selling second-hand goods through online classifieds.

According to the company, FlipSell's online buying and selling system allows Cape Town-based sellers to sell goods online without ever having to directly engage with buyers. Consumers looking to buy second-hand goods can also engage in online transactions with peace of mind, allowing FlipSell to take on the role of the middle man between the buyer and seller.

Anree Malherbe, head of operations at FlipSell, says the company collects the goods from the seller and delivers to the buyer, which also frees sellers from the added expense of arranging delivery.

"There have been numerous reports of online classified scams, with little being done to improve the experience for general consumers. We saw this as an opportunity, and designed FlipSell to protect unsuspecting consumers from being targeted by criminals," he adds.

The start-up, he continues, also offers an escrow service to minimise risk for both parties, where payment is only released to the seller once the buyer is completely satisfied with their purchase.

"Goods are also placed in tamper-proof bags and insured with OUTsurance to prevent damage during transportation," notes Malherbe.

The company recently received funding from digital company Platinum Seed, which also owns a 7.5% stake in the business.

Explaining the procedure, Malherbe says the seller would first have to create their advert on FlipSell, add a few images, a set price and a brief description. They are then required to choose which price offer they wish to accept and FlipSell will receive and secure the payment for them.

"They choose when the item should be delivered and FlipSell will collect and deliver to the buyer. Upon delivery, should the buyer be satisfied, FlipSell will then release the payment to the seller," he elaborates.

From the buyers' perspective, once they have made an offer, they are required to make the payment to FlipSell, who will then deliver the goods. Should they not be entirely satisfied, the item will be returned to the seller and the payment returned free of charge, he points out.

"Buyers are charged a delivery fee ranging from R65-R95 based on the Cape Town zone in which the item will be delivered," concludes Malherbe.

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