Terms of Service
Effective Date: October 26, 2024
Welcome to **ShipCargo** ("Platform", "we", "our", "us"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of the ShipCargo website, applications, and services (collectively, the "Services"). By accessing or using ShipCargo, you agree to be bound by these Terms.
If you do not agree, do not use the Services.
1. About ShipCargo
ShipCargo is a **digital freight and shipment bidding marketplace** that enables exporters, importers, freight forwarders, transporters, and logistics service providers (collectively, "Users") to post shipments and submit bids. **ShipCargo is a technology platform only** and does not provide transportation, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, or logistics services.
2. Eligibility
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have authority to enter into a binding contract
- Use the Platform for lawful commercial purposes only
By registering, you represent that all information provided is accurate and complete.
3. User Accounts
3.1 Registration
To access certain features, you must create an account. You are responsible for:
- Maintaining confidentiality of login credentials
- All activity conducted under your account
3.2 Account Verification
ShipCargo may verify Users through documents, phone, email, or third‑party services. Verification does **not** guarantee the quality, legality, or reliability of any User or service provider.
3.3 Account Suspension
We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts for:
- False or misleading information
- Fraudulent or abusive behavior
- Violation of these Terms
4. Role of ShipCargo (Platform Disclaimer)
ShipCargo:
- Does **not** act as a carrier, agent, broker, or insurer
- Does **not** guarantee shipment execution, pricing, delivery time, or service quality
- Is **not a party** to any agreement between Exporters and Carriers
All contracts formed through bidding are **solely between Users**.
ShipCargo manages the digital workflow of shipment listing, bidding, and coordination. However, the preparation, packaging, handling, transportation, storage, and delivery of goods are the exclusive responsibility of the respective exporter, carrier, or logistics service provider. ShipCargo does not assume responsibility for the condition, temperature, timing, or safety of any shipment.
5. Shipment Listings
Users posting shipments agree that:
- Shipment details are accurate and lawful
- Goods comply with all applicable laws (customs, export controls, hazardous materials, etc.)
- They have the right and authority to ship the listed goods
ShipCargo may remove listings that violate laws or platform policies.
6. Bidding Process
6.1 Bids
- Bids are binding offers unless stated otherwise
- Users are responsible for understanding shipment requirements before bidding
6.2 Anti‑Sniping / Soft Close
ShipCargo may extend bidding time to ensure fair competition. Such extensions are final and system‑controlled.
6.3 Bid Acceptance
Acceptance of a bid creates a **direct contractual obligation** between the involved Users.
7. Payments & Fees
7.1 Platform Fees
ShipCargo may charge service fees, subscription fees, or transaction fees. Applicable fees will be disclosed prior to use.
7.2 Third‑Party Payments
Payments may be processed via third‑party gateways. ShipCargo is not responsible for failures, delays, or disputes arising from such providers.
7.3 Taxes
Users are solely responsible for any applicable taxes, duties, or levies.
8. Cancellations & Disputes
- ShipCargo does not mediate commercial disputes by default
- Users are encouraged to resolve disputes directly
- ShipCargo may provide limited facilitation but bears no liability
ShipCargo may suspend accounts involved in repeated disputes or misconduct.
9. Ratings & Reviews
Users may leave ratings and reviews. You agree that:
- Feedback is honest and lawful
- ShipCargo may remove content that is abusive, false, or misleading
10. Prohibited Activities
Users shall not:
- Use the Platform for illegal shipments
- Manipulate bids or pricing
- Scrape, copy, or reverse engineer the Platform
- Circumvent platform fees
- Upload malware or malicious code
Violation may result in immediate termination.
11. Intellectual Property
All Platform content, trademarks, logos, software, and design are owned by ShipCargo or its licensors. Users receive a limited, non‑exclusive, non‑transferable license to use the Services.
12. Confidentiality
Users agree not to misuse confidential information obtained through the Platform, including pricing, shipment details, and business data.
13. Data & Privacy
Use of the Platform is subject to our **Privacy Policy**. By using ShipCargo, you consent to data collection and processing as described therein.
14. Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, ShipCargo shall not be liable for:
- Loss of goods
- Delays or service failures
- Indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
Total liability, if any, shall not exceed fees paid to ShipCargo in the preceding 3 months.
15. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless ShipCargo from claims, damages, losses, or expenses arising from:
- Your use of the Platform
- Violation of laws or these Terms
- Disputes with other Users
16. Termination
ShipCargo may suspend or terminate access at any time without notice for violations or risk to the Platform.
17. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms shall be governed by the laws of **India**. Courts located in **Mumbai, India** shall have exclusive jurisdiction.
18. Modifications
ShipCargo may update these Terms at any time. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.
19. Contact Information
By using ShipCargo, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms of Service.