Frequently asked questions

No. It is an independent reference guide. We do not run purchases or accept orders or money, and the guide has nothing to do with the previous website on this domain.

The final price and the fee, the approximate timeline, who the goods are bought from and how defects, wrong items, missing items and a failed purchase are handled. It is best to get the answers in writing.

Choose a method that leaves a receipt or a record of the transfer, add a payment reference and keep the confirmation together with the messages about the terms.

That depends on the purchase terms: after the stop the organiser is already collecting money for the bulk buy, and cancelling may cause losses for others. Check the rules in advance; if there is a dispute, ask a lawyer.

Their role is often described as that of an intermediary: they act on the participants' instructions and with their money, and are paid a fee. Under Russian law this is close to an agency contract under Art. 1005 of the Civil Code; other countries have their own rules. Ask a lawyer how your activity should be classified.

The fee for organising purchases is income. In Russia, one possible regime is the professional income tax: 4 % on income from individuals and 6 % on income from sole traders and companies, for income of up to 2.4 million roubles a year. Other countries have their own tax rules; ask a lawyer or tax adviser whether it suits you.

Keep a spreadsheet: who paid, how much, when and for which items, and what part of it went to the supplier. Confirm receipt of money and keep the documents for the bulk buy; this protects both you and the participants.

The price and fee, the timeline, what happens with defects, wrong items and missing items, how long participants have to collect their order, and what happens if the supplier does not fulfil the order.

With records and negotiation: gather the messages, receipts and photos, describe the problem in writing and propose a solution. Most issues are resolved at this stage.

If negotiation has not helped. In the complaint, state what happened, what you are asking for and by when you expect a reply, and keep proof that you sent it.

Yes, if the dispute could not be resolved any other way. Which court, what evidence and what procedure depend on the amount and the circumstances; this is worth checking with a lawyer.

Under Art. 26.1 of the Russian Consumer Protection Law, you can refuse goods at any time before they are handed over, within 7 days after receiving them, or within 3 months if no written information on returns was given. These are the rights of a shop's customer and may not apply to dealings with an organiser who is a private individual. Other countries, including the EU, have their own rules on distance purchases; check local rules or ask a lawyer.