VF equipment swap/sale section?

[Lordmuppet]

I was wondering about the desirability/viability of an equipment swap/equipment sale section on the site. Thoughts? Would you seriously consider using such a section to get equipment/get rid of equipment?

Also thoughts on any problems that would have to be dealt with.

Here are the problems I've come up with

1) protecting the site legally against people ripping each other off
2) protecting members against being ripped off

I have a few ideas. A non vegan version of this (for strength equip) is already going on at t-nation or elite fts or somewhere i forget where will try to find it

[xrodolfox]

I think we can facilitate interactions, not sales themselves, and stay within legal realms. That way we stay away from being the interlocutor between two individuals contacting each other and making arrangements; akin to craigslist. We can allow people to list what they'd like or what they have to offer, eh?

I frankly have had some very nice economic transactions with fellow VF people, in manners that have helped my training and involvement in sport significantly. I treasure those interactions, and would love to see us support that. I'd be in support of a listing of needs/wants somewhere.

...I frankly could use an item or two right now...

[FormicaLinoleum]

I would seriously consider it.

I lift weights at home and have truly crap equipment. I would love proper stuff (I literally browse StrengthShop, fantasizing about the equipment I'd own with limitless money), but can't afford it. If anyone were selling used stuff I'd be very interested in buying it if it were within my budget. (I'm primarily interested in bars and plates but other stuff like squat racks would be amazing too.)

[vCLaW]

Yes, I think some sort of 'classifieds' section would be a good idea. It doesn't just have to be for sports/fitness equipment, you could allow anything (so long as it vegan) that site members have for sale or want. I have a few spare bike bits I'd be happy to give away for the cost of postage and/or a charity donation.

I don't think the site has to worry legally, as any buying/selling is between individual forum members.
For protecting members, hopefully most people can check details of whether it looks dodgy or not. eg if it's someone who has been around on the forum for quite a while, and got a reasonable number of posts, then you can probably trust them. Plus you could check whether they had bought/sold anything previously, and if there was any problems.
Maybe the section could be only visible to registered / logged in members?

[Lordmuppet]

thanks for the great suggestions guys! keep them coming!

oh and FormicaLinoleum I presume you've tried Gumtree for equipment?

fyi this is the squat rack that i will be kitting out our (low ceiling) garage with http://www.powerhouse-fitness.co.uk/bodymax-cf415-squat-and-dip-rack-with-spotter-catchers.php

[loveliberate]

I would love to see this!!!

[NatB]

I think its a great idea! As its cost me a fortune to get hold of kit like GI and shin pads. Plus you know its vegan

[Lordmuppet]

Plus you know its vegan

Indeed! that's the main selling point really that would justify its existence over craigslist or gumtree.

So yeah having slept on it I think the idea presented earlier of classifieds in the style of craigslist/gumtree is the way to go.

[Konstantin]

Great idea!

[rattus]

Example on Tritalk ...

http://www.tritalk.co.uk/forums/adverts.php

[FormicaLinoleum]

oh and FormicaLinoleum I presume you've tried Gumtree for equipment?

I check it occasionally but I find mostly the same kind of crap stuff I already own.

[Lordmuppet]

Example on Tritalk ...

http://www.tritalk.co.uk/forums/adverts.php

thanks that looks nice!