Last updated: July 28, 2025
These are the terms and conditions of use for https://collectradeapp.com/ (the “Site”) and the Collectrade mobile applications (together with the Site, the “Platform”). The Platform is operated by Collectrade, LLC (“Collectrade,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) and is a mobile-first marketplace that allows users to manage and trade consumer goods, with an initial focus on comic books and other collectibles.
These Terms & Conditions of Use (the “Terms”), together with our Privacy Policy, our FAQs, and any other guidelines, policies, or rules we post on the Platform (each incorporated herein by reference, and as amended from time to time), govern your access to and use of the Platform and all associated features, tools, and services (collectively, the “Services”).
In these Terms, “you” and “your” refer to the individual accessing and/or using the Platform, any electronic agent accessing the Platform on such individual’s behalf, and any business entity on whose behalf such individual or electronic agent is accessing the Platform and/or using the Services.
By accessing or using the Platform, or by clicking “I agree” (or similar) when presented with these Terms, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms in full. If you do not agree, do not access or use the Platform.
For all purposes, the English version of these Terms is the original, binding agreement between the parties. In the event of any conflict between the English version and any translation, the English version will control.
Governing Law. These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of New Jersey, without regard to its conflict of laws rules.
Right to Modify. We may modify these Terms at any time. We’ll notify you of material changes by updating the “Last Updated” date and/or providing notice in-app or via email. Your continued use of the Platform after such changes means you accept the updated Terms.
0. Key Definitions
Account: The unique profile you create to access and use the Platform.
Content: Text, images, listings, messages, data, code, and other materials available on or transmitted through the Platform.
Collectibles: Comic books and other consumer goods or items that users list, trade, or manage on the Platform.
HQ / Collectrade HQ: Collectrade’s internal middleman verification and logistics point through which accepted trades are routed.
Middleman Service: The trade verification, intake, inspection, repackaging, and forwarding service operated by Collectrade to protect users during trades.
Services: All functionality, features, content, and services made available through the Platform.
Trade: A transaction between users for one or more items, with or without an added cash component, as facilitated by the Platform.
1. Eligibility & Age Requirements
1.1 Minimum Age. You must be at least 18 years old to use the Platform. If you are between 13 and 17 years old, you may only use the Platform with the express consent and supervision of a parent or legal guardian, who agrees to be bound by these Terms on your behalf.
1.2 Legal Capacity. By using the Platform, you represent and warrant that you have the right, authority, and capacity to enter into these Terms and to comply with all of their provisions.
1.3 Jurisdictional Restrictions. The Platform is controlled and operated from the United States. We make no representations that the Services are appropriate or available for use in other jurisdictions. You are responsible for compliance with all applicable local laws.
2. Account Registration, Security & Verification
2.1 Account Creation. To use most features (including browsing, listing, and trading), you must create an Account using email+password or supported social login (e.g., Google, Apple, Facebook – if enabled). You must maintain a valid payment method on file with our payment processor (Stripe) to transact.
2.2 Accurate Information. You agree to provide complete, current, and accurate information when creating your Account and to update such information as necessary. False, misleading, or incomplete information is grounds for suspension or termination.
2.3 Security. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your login credentials and for all activity on your Account. Notify us immediately at support@collectradeapp.com if you suspect unauthorized use or a breach of security.
2.4 Verification. We may (now or in the future) require identity verification, address verification, or other steps (e.g., KYC) before enabling certain features (e.g., high-value trades). You agree to cooperate with such requests.
2.5 One Account Per User. You may not create more than one Account unless explicitly authorized by Collectrade in writing.
3. The Platform’s Role
3.1 Venue Only. Collectrade provides a venue and tools for users to discover, negotiate, and fulfill trades. Except where explicitly stated otherwise, Collectrade is not the buyer or seller of any item listed by users on the Platform.
3.2 No Valuation Guarantees. Collectrade does not set, guarantee, or appraise market values of any item. Any values (including personal estimates, trending flags, or market links) are informational and not guarantees.
3.3 No Grading or Authentication Guarantee. Collectrade is not a grading or authentication service. For trades using our Middleman Service, Collectrade will inspect items for consistency with their description, but does not guarantee grade, condition, authenticity, or market value.
3.4 No Fiduciary Duty. Collectrade does not act as your agent, broker, fiduciary, or advisor. You are responsible for your own decisions and due diligence regarding trades.
4. Prohibited Uses & Community Rules
You agree not to:
4.1 Illegality / Fraud. Use the Platform for any unlawful purpose, including selling or trading stolen, counterfeit, or unlawfully acquired items.
4.2 Circumvent the Platform. Attempt to conduct off-platform trades to avoid fees, verification, or policies. (Doing so may result in suspension, bans, and penalty fees.)
4.3 Abuse / Harassment. Harass, defraud, threaten, dox, or abuse other users.
4.4 Misrepresentation. List items inaccurately, conceal material defects, or falsely represent authenticity.
4.5 Security Violations. Attempt to gain unauthorized access, introduce malware, scrape, mine, reverse engineer, or interfere with the Platform.
4.6 Automated Use. Use bots, scrapers, or automated systems without our prior written consent.
4.7 Spam & Advertising. Use messaging or other features to spam, solicit, or market unrelated products or services.
4.8 Intellectual Property Violations. Upload, distribute, or use Content that infringes third-party rights (copyright, trademark, publicity, etc.).
Collectrade may investigate violations and take actions it deems appropriate, including account suspension, cancellation of trades, removal of listings, withholding of payouts, and cooperation with law enforcement—all to the extent permitted by law and our Privacy Policy.
5. Messaging & Negotiation
5.1 Pre-Offer Messaging. Users may message each other before sending an offer to negotiate terms, request photos, ask condition questions, or discuss values.
5.2 On-Platform Only. All trade-related communications must occur on Collectrade. Soliciting or arranging off-platform deals is prohibited and may result in removal or suspension.
5.3 Monitoring & Reporting. While Collectrade doesn’t proactively monitor all messages, we may review flagged or reported conversations for policy compliance and dispute resolution.
5.4 Blocking & Reporting. You may block or report users. Repeated abuse may lead to suspension or permanent banning at Collectrade’s discretion.
6. Fees, Payments, Taxes & Refunds
6.1 Fee Disclosure. Collectrade may charge trade fees, processing fees, shipping fees, and optional insurance fees. All applicable fees are disclosed before you confirm a trade.
6.2 Fee Split. Unless one party elects to “cover all fees,” fees are typically split between the users participating in a trade.
6.3 Non-Refundable. Fees are non-refundable once both parties have paid and the trade process has begun, except where explicitly stated (e.g., the other party fails to ship, Collectrade cancels a trade due to violation, or as required by law).
6.4 Stripe & Payment Methods. All payments are processed through Stripe. You authorize Collectrade and Stripe to charge your selected payment method(s) for applicable fees, penalties, and any amounts owed under these Terms.
6.5 Penalties & Costs. Collectrade may charge your payment method for costs or losses caused by your violation of these Terms (e.g., sending counterfeit items, failing to ship after acceptance, chargebacks, or legal costs).
6.6 Taxes. You are responsible for any taxes arising from your use of the Platform (e.g., sales tax, income tax, VAT). Collectrade may collect and remit taxes when required by law, but you remain responsible for any tax obligations not collected by Collectrade.
7. Trades & Offers
7.1 Binding Nature of Offers. When you send or accept a trade offer, you are entering into a legally binding contract to complete that trade in full accordance with these Terms. Offers are not speculative. If you cannot ship the item or fulfill your side of the trade, do not send or accept the offer.
7.2 Trade Composition. Trade offers may consist of:
Collectibles (e.g., graded comics, raw comics, cards)
Cash add-ons (handled via Stripe during checkout)
Additional notes or requests (visible to the other party)
7.3 Offer Expiration. Offers may expire if not accepted within a specific timeframe. Collectrade may cancel stale or incomplete offers to keep the platform functional and fair.
7.4 No Trade Outside Collectrade. Trades arranged or completed outside of Collectrade violate these Terms and will result in account action.
7.5 Trade Completion. A trade is considered complete once:
Both parties pay the required fees
Both parties ship to HQ
Items are verified and repackaged
Items are delivered to their final recipients
Delivery is confirmed by the shipping carrier
8. Middleman Verification Service
8.1 Purpose. Collectrade’s middleman service (“HQ”) provides item intake, visual verification, photo documentation, and safe re-shipping of traded collectibles to protect both parties from fraud or disputes.
8.2 Verification Limits. Collectrade’s staff will verify:
That the item matches the listing (e.g., correct title, issue, grade)
That no major undisclosed damage or inconsistencies exist
That certification numbers (for graded books) match what was submitted
We do not:
Authenticate raw books or confirm grading potential
Guarantee FMV or resale value
Certify collectibles beyond reasonable visual inspection
8.3 Right to Refuse or Cancel. Collectrade may cancel or pause a trade if the item appears fake, tampered with, incomplete, or significantly misrepresented. We reserve the right to return the item, issue refunds, charge penalties, or suspend the violating account.
8.4 Double Verification Protocol. All items received are verified against their attached trade label, which includes sender name and item title/description. This ensures accurate tracking and protects against mix-ups.
9. Shipping, Packaging & Risk of Loss
9.1 Shipping Labels. After trade acceptance and payment, Collectrade will generate a prepaid shipping label for each party. Users must ship via the provided label and carrier. Unauthorized labels may void protection.
9.2 Packaging Requirements. Users are required to follow Collectrade’s shipping instructions. Failure to properly package your item may void insurance eligibility and damage protection. All items sent to HQ must be:
Packed securely with bubble wrap, cardboard stiffeners, or protective sleeves
Placed in shipping boxes or mailers that match Collectrade’s standards
Clearly labeled with the provided trade slip
9.3 Collectrade Packaging. When items leave HQ, they are repackaged by our staff using Gemini mailers (for comics) and other premium materials. Our goal is to maintain the highest standard of shipping integrity.
9.4 Risk of Loss.
You bear the risk of loss or damage until your item arrives at Collectrade HQ.
Once received, Collectrade assumes responsibility until the item is shipped out to the trade partner.
Once an item is marked “delivered” by the final carrier, Collectrade’s liability ends. We are not responsible for loss, theft, or damage after final delivery.
9.5 Delayed or Failed Delivery. If your package is lost in transit to HQ or from HQ to the recipient, contact support@collectradeapp.com immediately. We will assist with any carrier investigations or claims.
10. Optional Insurance
10.1 Base Insurance. All trades are automatically covered by base carrier insurance (typically up to $100) unless otherwise stated. This covers loss or damage in transit, subject to proper packaging and carrier terms.
10.2 Additional Insurance. For high-value trades, users may purchase optional supplemental insurance through Collectrade at checkout (if available). Rates and coverage limits will be disclosed during the payment step.
10.3 Insurance Claims. Users must provide proof of condition, shipping receipt, and packaging compliance. Collectrade will file claims on your behalf where applicable, but cannot guarantee reimbursement.
10.4 Damage Before HQ Arrival. If your item arrives at HQ damaged and was improperly packaged, Collectrade reserves the right to cancel the trade and return the item without reimbursement or liability.
11. Failure to Ship or Complete a Trade
11.1 48-Hour Deadline. Once a trade is accepted, you have 48 hours to package and ship your item using the provided label. Failing to meet this window without notice may result in cancellation and penalties.
11.2 Non-Shipping Penalties. If you fail to ship an item after accepting a trade:
Your account may be suspended or banned
Any future offers may be auto-canceled
A penalty fee may be charged to your payment method
Repeat offenses may result in forfeiture of listing privileges
11.3 Trade Abandonment. If a user ghost-ships (uploads tracking but does not actually ship), or sends a completely different item, Collectrade reserves the right to ban the account, charge penalty or recovery fees, and permanently hold access to future features.
12. Cancellations & Modifications
12.1 Canceling Before Shipment. If both parties agree to cancel a trade before any items are shipped, you must contact Collectrade Support. Mutual cancellations must be approved by Collectrade.
12.2 Canceling After One Party Ships. If only one party ships their item and the other fails to comply, Collectrade will cancel the trade, return the item, and issue refunds or charge penalties as appropriate.
12.3 No Cancellation After Verification. Once both items arrive at HQ and are verified, the trade is locked in. Cancellations are no longer permitted at that point.
12.4 Modifications. Trade modifications (e.g., adding cash or switching items) are not allowed once an offer is accepted. You must cancel and start a new trade.
13. User Content
13.1 Your Content. As a user, you may upload, post, or share content on the Platform—including listings, photos, messages, profile images, trade notes, and feedback (“User Content”). You are solely responsible for the content you submit.
13.2 Content Rules. You agree not to post or upload any content that:
Is false, misleading, or deceptive
Contains nudity, violence, hate speech, or illegal content
Infringes on any intellectual property or proprietary rights
Harasses, defames, or threatens others
Violates any laws or regulations
13.3 License to Use. By uploading User Content, you grant Collectrade a worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to host, display, reproduce, distribute, and use your content in connection with the Platform and our business operations (e.g., marketing, support, analytics). You retain ownership of your content.
13.4 No Monitoring Obligation. Collectrade is not obligated to monitor User Content, but we reserve the right to review, remove, or restrict content at our discretion if it violates these Terms or harms the community.
14. Intellectual Property & Ownership
14.1 Platform IP. All software, code, databases, features, functionality, graphics, UI/UX elements, logos, trademarks, and other content on the Platform are owned or licensed by Collectrade and are protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, and other intellectual property laws.
14.2 Restrictions. You may not:
Copy, modify, reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble any part of the Platform
Use any content, trademarks, or design elements without our express written permission
Frame or mirror any part of the Platform on another service
14.3 Limited Use License. Collectrade grants you a limited, non-transferable, revocable license to access and use the Platform solely for personal and lawful purposes in accordance with these Terms.
14.4 Third-Party Content. Some content or features may be provided by third-party partners (e.g., Stripe, grading companies, analytics services). Their respective trademarks and content remain their property.
15. Dispute Resolution
15.1 Good Faith Effort. If a dispute arises between you and another user (e.g., about a trade, condition, or missing item), you agree to attempt resolution in good faith using Collectrade’s internal support and trade resolution process before taking legal action.
15.2 Binding Arbitration. Any unresolved dispute arising out of or related to these Terms shall be resolved through binding arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) in effect at the time. The arbitration will take place in New Jersey, and judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court with jurisdiction.
15.3 Equitable Relief. Nothing in this section prevents either party from seeking equitable or injunctive relief in court for urgent matters (e.g., intellectual property, fraud, or security violations).
16. Suspension & Termination
16.1 Our Right to Suspend. We may suspend, restrict, or permanently terminate your Account or access to the Platform at any time, with or without notice, if:
You violate these Terms or any posted policies
You engage in fraud, abuse, or harmful behavior
You fail to complete a trade or ship as agreed
You attempt to take trades off-platform
You cause risk or harm to the Platform or its users
16.2 Impact of Termination. If your Account is suspended or terminated:
You lose access to your listings, messages, and trade history
Active trades may be canceled at our discretion
Collectrade may retain data as required by law or for dispute resolution
You remain responsible for all fees, penalties, and obligations incurred prior to termination
16.3 Voluntary Account Deletion. You may delete your account at any time through the app or by emailing support@collectradeapp.com. Upon deletion, all personal data (except required transaction records) will be removed within a reasonable timeframe.
17. Legal Disclaimers
17.1 Platform Provided “As Is.” Collectrade is provided “as is” and “as available,” without warranties of any kind, express or implied. We do not guarantee:
That trades will always complete
That items will be authentic or match your expectations
That users will always behave honestly or lawfully
That the Platform will be uninterrupted or error-free
17.2 Limitation of Liability. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Collectrade is not liable for any indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages. This includes losses related to trades, delays, damages to collectibles, lost profits, or platform downtime.
17.3 30-Day Limitation. Any claim or dispute arising from use of the Platform must be filed within 30 days of the event giving rise to the claim. After that time, the claim is waived.
18. Ownership and Trademarks
18.1 Collectrade Name and Logo. The Collectrade name, logo, and all related marks are trademarks of Collectrade, LLC. They may not be copied, imitated, or used in whole or in part without our prior written consent.
18.2 User Feedback. Any ideas, suggestions, feedback, or improvements you submit to us become our property and may be used without compensation or attribution.
19. Privacy Policy Reference
19.1 Your Privacy Matters. Your use of the Platform is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information. By using Collectrade, you agree to the terms of our Privacy Policy.
19.2 Data Processing. You authorize Collectrade to process your personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws and our Privacy Policy. You also understand that certain third-party services (e.g., Stripe, Firebase, social logins) may independently process data in accordance with their own policies.
19.3 Third-Party Services. If you use a third-party login method (e.g., Apple, Google, Facebook), or interact with a third-party feature within the app (e.g., links to grading company census reports), your interactions may be governed by that provider’s terms and policies.
20. Communications
20.1 Electronic Notices. By using Collectrade, you consent to receive notices and communications electronically, including by email, app notifications, and on-screen messages. These may include:
Trade updates and confirmations
Account or security alerts
Policy changes or legal notices
Service announcements and platform updates
20.2 Marketing Communications. You may also receive promotional messages (e.g., new feature announcements, giveaways, or trade events). You can opt out of these emails by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of any email or by adjusting your app settings.
20.3 Official Contact. For all legal, account, or policy-related inquiries, reach us at:
📧 support@collectradeapp.com
21. Force Majeure
21.1 Collectrade is not responsible for failure to perform any obligation under these Terms if such failure is caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:
Natural disasters
War, terrorism, or civil unrest
Governmental actions or restrictions
Internet outages or infrastructure failures
Strikes or labor disputes
Pandemic-related delays
Postal or courier disruptions
In such cases, affected obligations may be delayed without liability.
22. General Provisions
22.1 Entire Agreement. These Terms (along with the FAQs, Privacy Policy, and any feature-specific guidelines) constitute the entire agreement between you and Collectrade regarding use of the Platform.
22.2 Waiver. If we fail to enforce any part of these Terms, it is not a waiver of our rights.
22.3 Severability. If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the rest of the Terms will remain in effect.
22.4 Assignment. You may not assign or transfer your rights under these Terms without our prior written consent. We may assign these Terms in connection with a merger, acquisition, or business sale.
22.5 Survival. Provisions that logically should survive termination (e.g., fees owed, disclaimers, intellectual property rights, arbitration) will continue to apply even after your account is closed.
22.6 Contact Information.
For legal questions, disputes, or concerns about your rights under these Terms, you may contact:
Collectrade, LLC
📧 support@collectradeapp.com
