Used Gear Policy

This Used Gear Policy explains the rules and conditions that apply when buying or selling second-hand astrophotography equipment through the AstroGear Used Gear marketplace. By creating or purchasing a Used Gear listing, you agree to these policies in addition to our general Terms & Conditions.

1. Listings & Approval

  • All Used Gear listings are created by registered customers and must include an accurate title, description, price in Rand (R), condition, and at least one clear photo.
  • AstroGear reviews all draft listings before they can be published. We may reject or remove any listing that is incomplete, inaccurate, misleading, or inappropriate.
  • Once approved, sellers may activate or pause their listings at any time.

2. Condition & Packaging

  • Sellers must accurately describe the condition of their item using the available options (Like New, Slight Imperfections, Good, Used, or As-Is).
  • Listings must indicate whether the original packaging is included.
  • Items must be honestly represented. Misrepresentation may result in cancellation, refunds, or suspension of selling privileges.

3. Service Levels

  • Secure Sale
    • This is the simplest and lowest-cost option.
    • AstroGear acts as a trusted escrow service.
    • The buyer pays AstroGear, and funds are held securely until the buyer confirms that the item has been received.
    • Once an item is sold, the seller will be notified and supplied with he buyer’s contact information,
    • Shipping or collection is arranged directly between the buyer and the seller.
    • The seller is responsible for safe packaging, choosing a courier (if shipping), and providing tracking details to the buyer.
    • Once the buyer confirms receipt through the platform, AstroGear releases payment to the seller (minus fees).
    • This option is best for sellers who are comfortable handling their own shipping or arranging in-person collection.
  • Secure Sale + Shipping
    • With this option, AstroGear provides additional convenience by arranging a prepaid courier shipment.
    • After the buyer pays AstroGear, the seller receives a prepaid shipping label and must package the item safely for collection.
    • The courier collects from the seller and delivers directly to the buyer.
    • Tracking details are shared automatically with both parties.
    • Funds remain in escrow until the buyer confirms safe delivery, at which point AstroGear releases payment to the seller (minus fees).
    • This option is ideal for sellers who want professional, trackable shipping without the hassle of booking it themselves.
  • AstroGear Certified
    • This is the premium service level and provides maximum trust for buyers.
    • The seller first ships the item to AstroGear (using a prepaid courier label provided by us).
    • AstroGear inspects and verifies the item’s condition, confirms it matches the description, and updates the details if needed before publishing the listing.
    • The item is stored securely by AstroGear until sold.
    • Once a buyer places an order, AstroGear ships the item immediately and the seller is paid as soon as the buyer completes payment.
    • Certified items include a 7-day Dead-On-Arrival (DOA) protection for buyers.
    • If a seller cancels a Certified listing before the item sells, return shipping fees will be charged before the item is returned.
    • This service is best suited for high-value items where trust, inspection, and professional handling is required.

4. Fees & Commissions

AstroGear charges a service fee on all Used Gear sales. The fee depends on the chosen service level and is laid out clearly when creating a used gear product listing. Fees are deducted automatically before funds are released to the seller. Our fees are designed to be transparent and cover payment processing and service overheads.

  • Secure Sale: 3% commission, subject to a minimum fee of R200.
  • Secure Sale + Shipping: 5% commission, subject to a minimum fee of R400. A prepaid courier label is provided; sellers must ensure safe packaging for courier collection.
  • AstroGear Certified: 8% commission, subject to a minimum fee of R600. AstroGear covers initial two-way shipping costs, which are recovered from the final sale. If the seller cancels a listing before the item sells, return shipping fees will be charged before the item is returned.

Card payments processed through PayGate incur a 3.2% payment fee. This fee is included in the displayed retail price. Buyers who choose EFT receive a 3% discount, since no gateway fee applies. Sellers always see the full fee breakdown and their exact payout on the listing page before confirming a listing.

Fees and commissions are subject to change. Any changes will be updated in this policy document and will apply to future listings from the date of update.

5. Payments & Buyer Protection

  • All payments are processed through AstroGear. Funds are held securely until the order is completed according to the selected service level.
  • Certified items include a 7-day Dead-On-Arrival (DOA) protection. If the item does not function as described, buyers may request a return within this period.
  • As-Is items are final sale unless they are not received or grossly misrepresented.

6. Shipping

  • Sellers are responsible for safe packaging and timely handover to courier where applicable.
  • If AstroGear arranges shipping (Secure Sale + Shipping or Certified), tracking details will be provided to both buyer and seller.
  • Risk of loss during transit is covered according to the chosen service level and courier terms.

7. Disputes

  • In the event of a problem (non-delivery, DOA claim, misrepresentation), buyers must contact AstroGear immediately.
  • AstroGear will review the case and may issue a refund, return, or release of funds based on available evidence.
  • We reserve the right to make a final decision in dispute resolution.

8. Limitations

  • AstroGear is not the manufacturer and does not provide warranties on Used Gear beyond what is explicitly stated under the selected service level.
  • AstroGear is not liable for any loss, delay, or damage caused by third-party courier companies. Standard courier liability is limited to R1,000 per shipment. For higher-value items, optional shipping insurance can be arranged at 2% of the declared value. Responsibility for requesting and paying for additional insurance rests with the buyer or seller.
  • We are not liable for hidden defects in items sold “As-Is” or for any indirect or consequential damages.
  • Sellers who repeatedly violate these policies may have their accounts suspended or listings removed.

9. Governing Law

This Used Gear Policy is governed by the laws of South Africa and forms part of the overall Terms & Conditions of using our website.