FlipSell launches in Cape Town, introducing scam-free online classifieds

1 Jul 2016

Fraud, theft and personal security are some of the issues that consumers contend with when buying or selling second-hand goods through online classifieds. FlipSell, a new online classified, which recently received funding from digital company Platinum Seed, takes away the hassle and unease of dealing with a stranger, with its online transaction system.

Picture: Supplied

Through FlipSell’s online system, sellers receive offers to purchase via SMS or email, which they can accept, decline or counter, without ever having to engage directly with buyers. Consumers looking to buy second-hand goods can also engage in online transactions with peace of mind, with FlipSell taking on the role of intermediary between the buyer and seller.

FlipSell will collect the goods from the seller and deliver to the buyer, which also frees sellers from the added expense of arranging delivery. Goods are also placed in tamper-proof bags and insured with OUTsurance to prevent damage during transportation.

“There have been numerous reports on online classified scams, with little being done to improve the experience for general consumers,” said Anree Malherbe, head of operations of FlipSell. “We saw this as an opportunity and designed FlipSell to protect unsuspecting consumers from being targeted by criminals.”

Escrow service

In response to fraud and other challenges facing online classified services, FlipSell 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.

This is an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide on how to use FlipSell for buyers and sellers.

For sellers:

Create your advert on FlipSell with a few images, a set price and a brief description;
Choose the offer you wish to accept and FlipSell will receive and secure the payment for you;
Choose when the item should be delivered and FlipSell will collect and deliver to the buyer; and
Once delivered, and should the buyer be satisfied, FlipSell will then release the payment to you.

For buyers:

Browse the online adverts and choose your item;
Make an offer on the item you want. Should the seller accept, you can then make payment to FlipSell; and
FlipSell will deliver the item to you and, if you’re not entirely satisfied, the item will be returned to the seller and your payment returned to you – free of charge.

For more information, go to http://shop.flipsell.co.za or www.facebook.com/flipsellsa or Twitter @FlipsellSA.