How to Handle Pickup or Delivery for Larger Items on markto.ch
Larger items (furniture, bikes, appliances, TVs, mattresses, exercise equipment, etc.) require extra planning for safe, practical pickup or delivery. markto.ch has no built-in shipping or logistics — everything is arranged directly between buyer and seller. Here’s how to manage it effectively.
1. Agree on Pickup vs. Delivery Early
- Pickup (most common and recommended)
Buyer comes to seller or meets at a convenient public spot.
Seller example reply: “Pickup only — item is bulky, no delivery possible. Can meet at my place parking or a big Migros lot in [city].” - Delivery (seller offers or buyer requests)
Seller drives/delivers for an extra fee (common CHF 20–80 depending on distance and size).
Buyer example: “Would you deliver to [your area] for CHF 30 extra? I can help unload.”
Seller: “Delivery possible within 20 km for CHF 40 fuel + time. Cash on delivery after inspection.” - Confirm in writing: price including delivery fee, exact address (if private), who unloads, payment timing.
2. Best Practices for Pickup of Large Items
- Meeting spot
- Seller’s home parking (if safe and agreed) or nearby public lot.
- Large supermarket parking (Migros/Coop with big spaces).
- Shopping center loading zones (e.g., Glattzentrum, Shoppi Tivoli).
- Avoid narrow streets or private driveways for first meetups.
- Timing
Choose daylight hours (Saturday morning/afternoon best — more people around, easier loading).
Allow 30–60 min buffer for loading/unloading. - Help needed
- Buyer: Bring 1–2 strong helpers or a van/trailer if needed.
- Seller: Mention size/weight in ad (“needs 2 people to carry”, “fits in SUV”).
- Agree who brings tools (e.g., screwdriver for disassembly, straps/blankets for protection).
- Vehicle check
Buyer: Confirm item fits (measure beforehand).
Seller: Ask buyer’s vehicle type (“Do you have a van or roof rack?”).
3. Delivery Options & Safety
If seller agrees to deliver:
- Fee structure
Clear upfront: “CHF 50 delivery within 30 km, paid on arrival after you check the item.”
No advance payment — pay only after inspection and unloading. - Unloading help
Seller usually drops at curb or agreed spot; buyer handles unloading unless extra fee negotiated. - Private address delivery
Only if trust is built (e.g., after photos/videos, good chat history).
Buyer can meet seller at a nearby public spot first, then lead to home. - Alternative: Meet halfway
Reduces risk/distance for both — e.g., “I’ll drive to Bern HB parking, you come from your side.”
4. Payment for Large Items
- Cash on handover (safest)
Count together after inspection/unloading. - TWINT (good alternative)
Pay after item is unloaded and checked. - Bank transfer (only if very high trust)
Instant same-bank transfer possible, but inspect first.
5. Safety & Practical Tips
- Inspect fully before any payment (test appliance, check for damage, count parts).
- Take photos of item + handover spot.
- Bring blankets, straps, or moving pads to protect during transport.
- For very bulky/heavy: Consider hiring a cheap mover (e.g., via Tutti.ch or local services) if neither can handle.
- If delivery to home: Have someone present, meet seller outside first.
- Red flags: Requests for full advance payment, refusal of public spots, pushy behavior — cancel.
Quick Checklist for Large-Item Deals
- Size/weight & vehicle fit confirmed?
- Pickup spot or delivery fee agreed?
- Helpers needed/planned?
- Daylight, public-ish location?
- Payment after inspection/unloading?
- All terms in WhatsApp chat?
Large items take more coordination but close successfully every day on markto.ch — clear communication + public spots + cash/TWINT at handover keep it safe and stress-free.
Good luck with your big find! 🚚