1. Introduction & Purpose of the Platform
Welcome to LecoExpress, a global e-commerce marketplace designed to connect sellers and buyers across borders. Our mission is to build a trusted, transparent, and secure ecosystem where businesses of all sizes can thrive.
We are more than just a website for transactions – we are an infrastructure that provides seller verification, secure payment handling, buyer protection, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
By registering with us, whether as a buyer or seller, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). They serve as the foundation of trust between the Platform, sellers, and buyers.
2. Key Definitions
Buyer
Any individual or business purchasing goods or services through the Platform.
Seller
Any individual or business listing and selling goods or services on the Platform.
Verified Seller Account
A seller account that has successfully completed the verification process, including submission of legal documents, identity proof, and linked payment account.
Fees
Any payments due to the Platform, including subscription fees, transaction commissions, listing fees, promotional/advertising fees, or other service charges.
3. Eligibility & Account Registration
To participate, you must:
- Be of legal age and capacity to enter contracts.
- Provide accurate, truthful, and current information when registering.
- For sellers: provide business registration documents, tax identification, bank account details, and other verification data as requested.
Supplying false or misleading information may result in immediate suspension or termination of your account.
4. Seller Tiers – Standard vs. Verified
4.1 Standard Seller
A Standard Seller may list products and sell to buyers, but access is limited. Listing limits, visibility in search results, and eligibility for promotional programs may be restricted.
4.2 Verified Seller
A Verified Seller has undergone a comprehensive verification process (business registration, legal documents, payment account linking). The Verified badge signals trustworthiness and compliance to buyers.
Benefits include:
- Verified badge displayed publicly
- Higher product listing limits
- Priority placement in search results
- Access to buyer protection programs and premium dispute resolution
- Eligibility for advanced promotional and advertising opportunities
Maintaining Verified status requires ongoing compliance and prompt updates if any business or payment information changes.
5. Fees & Payment Obligations
Running a secure global marketplace requires resources. Sellers therefore agree to pay applicable fees, which may include:
- Listing Fees: Charges for listing products on the Platform.
- Transaction Commissions: A small percentage of each successful sale, covering payment processing, buyer protection, and platform maintenance.
- Subscription Plans: Monthly or annual membership packages that unlock features.
- Advertising Fees: Optional fees for promoted listings and marketing campaigns.
- Withdrawal/Settlement Fees: Charges applied when transferring funds from your Platform wallet to your linked bank account.
5.1 Verified Seller Payment Account
All Verified Sellers must link a Verified Payment Account (bank account or approved payment provider).
By linking this account, you authorize the Platform to:
- Automatically deduct fees at the time of transaction settlement or on a subscription billing cycle.
- Conduct micro-deposit or verification checks to confirm account ownership.
- Hold funds if disputes, refunds, or regulatory requirements demand it.
If payment fails or fees remain unpaid, you will be notified immediately. The Platform may temporarily downgrade or remove Verified status. Persistent failure may lead to suspension or permanent closure of your account.
6. Seller Responsibilities & Conduct
Sellers agree to:
- List products honestly and accurately.
- Comply with all applicable laws (e.g., export restrictions, consumer protection, tax compliance).
- Deliver products on time and provide tracking details.
- Avoid counterfeit, illegal, or prohibited goods (see Prohibited Items Policy).
Failure to comply may result in removal of listings, financial penalties, or termination.
7. Buyer Protection & Dispute Resolution
Trust is the core of online trade. The Platform provides a Buyer Protection Program, which may include:
- Guaranteed refunds if goods are not delivered or are significantly different from the description.
- Escrow services, where funds are held until the buyer confirms receipt.
- Dispute resolution managed by the Platform for fair and transparent outcomes.
Verified Sellers benefit most from this program, as buyers are more confident purchasing from sellers with a trusted badge.
8. Liability & Risk
The Platform provides the space for commerce but is not the manufacturer or supplier of goods.
Sellers are solely responsible for:
- The quality and legality of their products.
- Ensuring shipments comply with laws and customs requirements.
- Handling returns and warranties where applicable.
The Platform limits its liability to the maximum extent permitted by law.
9. Privacy & Data Use
We take data protection seriously.
- Your information is used for verification, transaction processing, dispute resolution, and improving Platform services.
- Sensitive information (like payment details) is encrypted and shared only with authorized payment processors or regulators when required.
- We do not sell personal data to third parties.
10. Suspension, Termination & Loss of Verified Status
The Platform reserves the right to:
- Suspend or terminate any account for fraud, repeated disputes, unpaid fees, or violations of law.
- Immediately revoke Verified status if misrepresentation, expired documents, or suspicious activity is detected.
11. Amendments
We may update these Terms periodically to reflect business, legal, or technological changes. Updated Terms will be posted on the Platform. Continued use after changes means you accept the new Terms.
12. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms are governed by the laws of Tanzania. Disputes will be handled through arbitration or courts in Mwanza, unless otherwise agreed.
13. Closing Statement – Our Commitment
LecoExpress was created with a vision: to empower businesses globally through trust, security, and opportunity. By becoming a Verified Seller, you are not only gaining access to tools and benefits, but also joining a trusted network that values professionalism and transparency.
Together, we create an ecosystem where buyers feel secure, and sellers grow with confidence.