1. Who we are

ToneTrade (“we”, “us”) operates an online marketplace for musical instruments and related gear in South Africa. ToneTrade connects independent buyers and sellers. Payment and escrow are provided by TradeSafe, our licensed escrow / payment partner — not by ToneTrade holding funds itself.

By creating an account, listing items, browsing, or completing a purchase on ToneTrade, you agree to these Terms of Service and the related policies linked from this page.

2. Marketplace role vs escrow

ToneTrade provides the marketplace platform (listings, accounts, order UI, seller tools). TradeSafe holds buyer funds in escrow, processes accepted payment methods, and releases or refunds funds according to its escrow rules and the transaction outcome.

See our Buyer Protection & Escrow Policy for how hold / release / disputes work.

3. Eligibility

• You must be able to form a binding contract under South African law (generally 18+).
• Sellers must provide accurate identity, contact, and payout details required for TradeSafe settlement.
• Business sellers must provide correct legal / trading details when requested.

4. Accounts & conduct

You are responsible for your login credentials and for activity under your account. Provide truthful information. Do not harass other users, manipulate reviews, circumvent fees, or attempt to move paid deals off-platform to avoid escrow.

5. Listings & purchases

Sellers must describe instruments accurately (condition, accessories, defects). Buyers should read listings carefully before checkout. Allowed / banned goods are set out in our Seller Policy and Prohibited Items pages.

6. Fees

Platform commission, escrow fees, and courier charges are disclosed in our Fees policy and may also appear at cart/checkout. Fees can change; the amounts shown for a live order apply to that order.

7. Shipping

Delivery is arranged per listing (one courier + fee set by the seller). Details: Shipping & Delivery Policy.

8. Disputes

If goods are not as described, damaged in transit, or not delivered, follow the process in Refunds & Disputes. TradeSafe may lock escrow funds while a dispute is open.

9. Limitation of liability

ToneTrade does not manufacture or own most listed goods. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we are not liable for seller misrepresentation, courier failure, or indirect losses. Nothing in these terms excludes liability that cannot be excluded under South African consumer law (including the CPA where it applies).

10. Governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Unresolved escrow disputes may follow TradeSafe’s escalation path (including Small Claims Court or arbitration where applicable).

11. Contact

Questions about these terms: Contact ToneTrade.