Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the more commonly asked questions buyers/bidders and sellers have about participating in our online auctions. We are constantly adding to this list, so if there are questions you have that are not answered below, please always feel free to reach out to us directly via WhatsApp (preferred) +263 71 922 2826 or by calling +263 24 257 0551 or emailing [email protected]
Q: How do I sign up to bid?
A: Registering to bid on auctions is completely free. Simply click the ‘Register’ link in the navigation menu at the top of the website or in the footer. Alternatively, you can register directly here to participate in our auctions.
Q: How do I list my goods for sale in your auctions?
A: Sellers cannot directly list items on our website. To sell through us, goods must be consigned to ChiPeJ Systems (Pvt) Ltd. Our team will inspect the items to ensure they meet our listing criteria and will then list them on the seller’s behalf.
Q: How are buyers and sellers protected?
A: ChiPeJ Systems (Pvt) Ltd acts as an escrow service. Once a seller consigns goods to us, the items are listed in a live auction. When a buyer wins and makes payment—either via our secure payment portal or on a cash-on-delivery basis—ChiPeJ Systems (Pvt) Ltd holds both the goods and funds. Only once both are confirmed, we release the goods to the buyer and disburse payment to the seller, ensuring a secure transaction for all parties.
Q: How much does it cost to use your auction platform?
A: There are no upfront fees for buyers or sellers. ChiPeJ Systems (Pvt) Ltd charges a fixed commission from the final sale price, which is clearly communicated to both parties before the auction begins. Please note, online payments are processed through a third-party payment gateway, and a payment processing fee may apply based on the method used.
Q: How does the consignment process work?
A: To consign goods, complete this online form, or contact us directly via WhatsApp (preferred) at +263 71 922 2826, call +263 24 257 0551, or email [email protected]. Our team will guide you through the entire process.
Q: What is the ‘Buy Now’ option?
A: Some auctions feature a ‘Buy Now’ button, allowing buyers to instantly purchase an item at a fixed price—bypassing the bidding process. This provides a faster sale for sellers and a guaranteed purchase for buyers willing to pay the listed price.
Q: What is a reserve price?
A: A reserve price is the minimum amount a seller is willing to accept for an item. Sellers must inform ChiPeJ Systems (Pvt) Ltd if they wish to set a reserve. The actual reserve amount may or may not be shown to bidders, based on the seller’s preference or our recommendation. If the reserve is not met by the end of the auction, the seller can choose whether or not to accept the highest bid.
Q: What is proxy bidding (also known as auto bidding)?
A: Proxy bidding allows you to enter the maximum amount you’re willing to pay. The system will then automatically place bids on your behalf—incrementally—only as needed to stay ahead of competing bidders, up to your limit. Note: Proxy bidding must be enabled for a specific auction. If it’s not enabled, entering a high bid will immediately raise the current bid to that amount.
Q: How do I make payment after winning an auction?
A: If you win an auction, you’ll receive an automated email confirmation. You can then arrange to pay cash on collection OR cash upon delivery by contacting us via WhatsApp (preferred) at +263 71 922 2826, calling +263 24 257 0551, or emailing [email protected].
Q: What charges are applicable to sellers?
A: All charges listed below shall be subject to VAT at the current rate as determined by ZIMRA.
As at May 2025, the VAT is 15%.
Commission on Sellers (COMMISSION OR HANDLING FEES)
1. When a seller comes to collect his dues, any items sold on the auction platform shall be subject to a commission or handling fee as shown in the table below.
2. VAT at 15% shall be applied on the charged on the commission. VAT will change according to the dictates of the authorities.
3. The commission and the VAT shall be added together and the sub-total shall be deducted from the winning bid to determine the amount that a seller will receive on payout.
Example:
Sofas bought for $300 as final winning bid.
Winning Bid = $300.00
Less Commission @ 12% = $36.00
Less VAT on Commission @ 15% = $5.40
TOTAL PAYOUT TO SELLER: = $258.60
Requirements for Sellers to Consign Goods
1. Physical registration at the company offices
2. National ID number
3. Proof of residence or Affidavit
Q: What charges are applicable to buyers?
A: All charges listed below shall be subject to VAT at the current rate as determined by ZIMRA.
As of May 2025, the VAT is 15%.
Charges on Buyers (PURCHASER’S LEVY)
When a Buyer comes to pay and collect any winning bids, any item bought on the auction platform by the Buyer, shall attract a handling fee OR BUYERS’ PREMIUM of 10%, regardless of the value.
Example:
Sofas bought for $300 as final winning bid.
Winning Bid = $300.00
Add Purchaser’s Levy @ 10% = $30.00
Add VAT on Purchaser’s Levy @ 15% = $4.50
TOTAL AMOUNT TO BE PAID BY PURCHASER: = $334.50
Requirements for Buyers to Register
1. Sign up on the online registration form
2. Submit an ID on request