Let’s paint the scenario. You’ve received a gift, and said your thanks.
But it’s not quite right, and either you don’t know where it was bought, or the shop doesn’t offer refunds or exchanges.
You’re stuck. Maybe not.
Nick Robertson runs SwapU.com.au, a website that offers people the opportunity to swap unwanted things for something they might find more useful.
The SwapU app is easy to use. Load up photos of what you want to swap, let everyone know what you’d like to swap it for, and off you go.
“I suggest trying the ‘something of interest’ line and just seeing what you could get. Who knows what you might find,” Mr Robertson says.
SwapU did a similar promotion last year which received great interest. The site has helped people swap more than 1000 items so far, from fish tanks to car parts and gaming consoles.
“Most things are swappable as long as they do not require a license to operate or own,” Mr Robertson said.
“One example of something you cannot swap are smoking implements or alcohol. Items also need to be unemcumbered and not stolen of course.”
So, back to that unwanted gift which you’d feel uncomfortable on-gifting.
“The best part about Christmas swaps is the randomness of the items we get,” Mr Robertson said.
“We get items ranging from beach towels to aftershave. All the items that someone has been given that they have too much of or no need for and don’t have the receipt to return.”
SwapU is free to use.
Mr Robertson says the best way to ensure a successful swap is to arrange a meeting in a public place, and to ask for more photos to ensure the item is as stated.
You can also ask for a short video of the item working, he said.
