Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about buying and selling on SplitLocal.
FOR SELLERS
What is a "share"?
A share is a single unit or portion of your bulk deal that one buyer commits to. For example, if you're selling 50 lbs of apples split into 10 shares, each share is 5 lbs. You decide how to divide your bulk inventory when you create the deal.
What is the Commitment Deadline?
The commitment deadline is the cutoff date for buyers to join your deal. It's limited to 7 days from when the deal is created because Stripe card authorizations expire after 7 days. If your deal hasn't reached its minimum by the deadline, it cancels automatically.
What is the Minimum Shares Required?
This is the number of shares that must be committed before your deal proceeds. It protects you from having to fulfill a partial order that isn't worth your time. If the minimum isn't met by the deadline, the deal cancels and no one is charged.
When do I get paid?
You get paid 7 days after a successful pickup. When a buyer picks up their share and you scan their QR code, the payment is captured from their card. Funds are deposited to your connected bank account after the 7-day holding period.
What fees does SplitLocal charge?
SplitLocal charges a 10% platform fee on completed deals. Third-party payment processing fees (from Stripe) also apply. There are no upfront costs — you only pay fees when a deal is successfully fulfilled.
What if not enough buyers commit?
If your deal doesn't reach its minimum shares by the commitment deadline, it cancels automatically. All buyer payment authorizations are released and no one is charged. You can always create a new deal with adjusted pricing or minimums.
How does the rating system work?
After each completed pickup, buyers can rate sellers and sellers can rate buyers. Ratings help build trust on the platform. Your average rating is visible on all your deal listings.
FOR BUYERS
Will my card be charged right away?
No. Your card is only authorized (reserved) when you commit. You are not charged until after pickup. If the deal cancels for any reason, the authorization is released automatically.
What is the Commitment Deadline?
The date by which all buyers must commit. After this date the deal either locks (minimum met) or cancels (minimum not met). Deadlines are limited to 7 days because card authorizations expire after that.
What if the deal doesn't reach its minimum?
The deal cancels automatically and your card authorization is released. You are never charged. There's no risk to you.
What is "Minimum Needed"?
The minimum number of buyers required for the deal to proceed. The seller sets this based on their minimum viable order. If the minimum isn't met by the deadline, the deal cancels and no one is charged.
How do I pick up my order?
Show your QR code or order number to the seller at the pickup location during the pickup window. You'll find both on your order details page after committing.
What if I can't make the pickup?
Contact the seller as soon as possible. No-shows without prior approval may result in account suspension. If you know in advance you can't make it, reach out early so the seller can plan accordingly.
Can I see a seller's rating before committing?
Yes. Seller ratings are visible on all deal listings and deal detail pages. Ratings are based on reviews from buyers who have completed pickups with that seller.