Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is MerchPatrol?

MerchPatrol is an iOS application that provides real-time notifications for merchandise restocks and drops from your favorite artists. Additionally, it features a community-driven marketplace where users can discover and trade physical collector items like vinyl records, apparel, CDs, and tour exclusives.

Who is responsible for transactions on the platform?

You and your trading partner are solely responsible for all transactions. MerchPatrol never holds or processes private funds. We act as an information and alert platform. The seller is the Merchant of Record, meaning all payments occur directly between buyer and seller, and the seller is fully responsible for fulfilling the shipment.

Trading & Buying

How does the trade process work?

Trading on MerchPatrol relies on mutual financial protection using PayPal Goods & Services (G&S):

• Two users agree to trade their items and settle on fair market values.
• Example: If both items are worth roughly $50, both parties should agree that the trade value is $50.
• Both users independently send each other the agreed-upon amount via PayPal Goods & Services.
• Never agree to receive less money than your item’s fair market value. Equal-value transactions ensure PayPal Buyer/Seller protection covers both parties in case of non-delivery.

How do I verify receipt of payment?

Always manually verify that funds have appeared directly in your official PayPal account. Do not rely solely on screenshots or emails from third parties, as these can easily be spoofed. Open your PayPal app or website directly before shipping.

Shipping & Protection

How do I ship my items safely?

Once you verify payment in your account, carefully package your item. Always use shipping services that provide verifiable tracking numbers. Providing tracking is required for carrier and payment protection.

How can I save money on shipping labels?

You can use services like PirateShip or Shippo to purchase discounted USPS, UPS, or FedEx commercial labels directly from home without paying retail post office rates.

Safety & Disputes

What if a trading partner fails to ship or sends the wrong item?

Because trades are backed by PayPal Goods & Services:

• Open a dispute immediately with PayPal under their Resolution Center. Attach trade chat logs, tracking numbers, and proof of condition.
• PayPal’s Buyer Protection can recover the funds sent to the scammer.
• Report the user within MerchPatrol so our moderation team can permanently ban bad actors.