The Safety Of Swapping Websites

By Janine Hughes


Bartering was the way in which people exchanged goods and services before money was invented. A new take on this old system is swapping websites. These are proving to be an extremely popular way for people to exchange goods they no longer want for others they want or need. Services are also exchanged and sometimes services are exchanged for goods.

Cars, clothing and consumer electronics are just some of the most popular items for exchange as well as services like house cleaning and child care. Sites devoted to services are usually area specific. Some of the larger, established marketplaces offer numerous categories with thousands upon thousands of listings. Others deal more specifically with a particular area, dealing with interests like biking, cars or clothing. Registering and joining is a simple process and once terms and conditions are accepted, trading can begin.

A member posts a listing, giving a heading and a detailed description of the item they are offering. They choose a specific category and this makes it simple for other users to view what is being offered and what is wanted in exchange. Images of the item can be uploaded too by using built-in software.

Another user who is interested in the item will show their interest and maybe ask some questions. If a suitable proposal is made and accepted, the exchange can proceed. This may be done by exchanging delivery addresses and posting the items. Sometimes sites are devoted to users in a particular area and it may be convenient for them to arrange to physically swap goods.

An option of withdrawing from a transaction usually exists. However, this is no longer possible after one of the users has already sent an item. When an item has been sent, the user is often required to fill in a date, method of sending and tracking numbers or any comments. Users confirm once they have received an item.

Ratings have been introduced by many of these marketplaces to allow the online community to assess fellow members. Reading ratings can give a good idea of how reliable a user is when it comes to describing items, making proposals and arranging for speedy delivery of goods. Active online communities also mean that seasoned users are available to give new users tips and advice.

People may be fearful of using such sites because they think safety risks are involved. There are obviously some risks in this type of trading but as long as common sense is used, there is no reason for swaps to go wrong. The online communities that exist provide invaluable input as swaps are reviewed and irregularities reported.

A system of bartering can work extremely well if the users obey the rules and follow instructions that are put in place for their safety. These websites are easy to use and it can be really helpful to exchange unwanted items for needed and wanted ones without having to pay money. One can even have fun making swaps and make new friends in the process.




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