What to Do If Payment Issues Arise After Agreement on markto.ch
Payment problems after agreeing on a deal are uncommon on markto.ch (mostly local cash or TWINT handovers), but they can happen—wrong amount sent, TWINT glitch, buyer disappears after promising transfer, or disputes over item condition post-handover. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for both buyer and seller.
If You Are the Seller (Payment Not Received or Wrong Amount)
- Check immediately at handover
- For TWINT: Refresh the app → confirm the exact amount arrived from the correct sender.
- For cash: Count together in front of the buyer before they leave.
- If issue spotted right there: Politely point it out (“The transfer shows CHF 150 instead of 180—can we fix it now?”). Most honest buyers correct it instantly.
- If buyer has already left
- Contact via WhatsApp/email right away (within minutes):
“Hi, the TWINT came through as CHF 150 instead of the agreed CHF 180. Can you send the remaining CHF 30? Thanks!” - Attach screenshot of your received amount.
- If no response or refusal
- Send one polite follow-up after 1–2 hours: “Just checking if you saw my message about the missing CHF 30?”
- If still ignored:
- Keep all chat screenshots (agreement, handover photos, transfer proof).
- Report the user/ad via markto.ch (“Melden” flag on the listing or “Kontaktieren Sie uns” in footer) — describe the situation with screenshots.
- For larger amounts (> CHF 100–200): Consider small claims at local conciliation authority (Schlichtungsbehörde) — cheap and fast in Switzerland (usually under CHF 2,000).
- Prevent future issues
- Always confirm full amount live before handover.
- For TWINT: Watch notification arrive in real time.
- Never hand over item until money is fully received.
If You Are the Buyer (Item Not as Described After Payment)
- If you spot issues at handover
- Don’t pay until fixed or agree on price reduction.
- If already paid cash: Politely ask for partial refund on spot (“This scratch wasn’t mentioned—can we agree CHF 30 back?”).
- If problem discovered after leaving
- Contact seller immediately (within hours):
“Hi, the laptop battery only holds 30 min instead of the described 4–5 hours. Can we sort this out?” - Provide photos/videos as proof.
- If seller refuses to help
- One calm follow-up with evidence.
- If no resolution and amount is significant:
- Report via markto.ch support (include chat screenshots, photos).
- For higher amounts: File with local conciliation authority (free/low-cost mediation).
- Small claims court (Betreibung) is last resort—usually not worth it under CHF 500.
- Prevent future issues
- Inspect thoroughly before paying (test everything).
- Take handover photos.
- Agree “as seen/as is” in chat if no warranty expected.
General Advice for Both Sides
- Keep records — screenshots of all agreements, payment proofs, handover photos, chat history.
- Stay polite — most issues resolve with calm communication.
- Small amounts (< CHF 50): Often better to let go than escalate.
- Larger amounts (> CHF 200): Document everything and involve markto.ch support early.
- Serious fraud (fake transfers, threats): Report to police (online via cantonal police site) + markto.ch.
- Best prevention: Cash or live-confirmed TWINT in public spot, full inspection before payment.
Most markto.ch deals go smoothly because they’re local and face-to-face. When issues do arise, quick polite communication fixes the majority—escalate only when necessary.
Stay calm and keep records—you’ve got this! 🛡️