Canada Post is trialling a new 'convenient' service in Metro Vancouver
Canada Post is test-driving a new service to support Canadians in the resale market, and Metro Vancouver buyers and sellers are among the first who can try it out.
The federal crown corporation recently announced details for Swap Spot, allowing people to use a post office as a drop-off and pickup location for items.
According to Canada Post, the plan is to create a “secure and convenient” place to complete transactions for users on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Kijiji.
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“With Swap Spot, the seller drops off an item at an agreed-to post office, and the buyer picks it up on their own schedule,” explained the crown corporation in a news release and online.
“No coordination. No strangers at your door. Payment can also be handled at the post office, giving both sides peace of mind.”
Each Swap Spot transaction costs a flat fee of $5 plus tax, and is currently available at post offices in Calgary, Hamilton, the Ottawa-Gatineau region, and the Greater Vancouver area.
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
Most everyday items are allowed to be bought and sold through the service, with Canada Post explaining that, “as a general rule, if it can be legally mailed in Canada, it can be exchanged through Swap Spot.”
“Prohibited and controlled items are not accepted, including firearms, drugs and controlled substances, dangerous goods, perishable items, and anything illegal under Canadian law,” the corporation added.
Once the item has been picked up and paid for by the buyer, Canada Post will send the seller an Interac e-Transfer within 5 business days.
More information on the trial service can be found online.
Several local police departments have created “buy and sell exchange zones” outside of their detachments so that folks can safely make transactions with strangers.
Vancouver Police Department (VPD) headquarters at 2120 Cambie Street, Vancouver. (Kenneth Chan/Daily Hive)
“Online buy and sell transactions are commonly used by many citizens,” said Coquitlam RCMP in a previous release. “There are numerous benefits to online private commerce; however, there are risks.
“Many people have become victims of crimes such as robberies, frauds, and thefts when attempting to buy or sell property online. Coquitlam RCMP aims to increase public safety and reduce crime by giving people a place to conduct face-to-face transactions.”
The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) also has a Safe Exchange Location outside of its headquarters at 2120 Cambie Street.
“If someone is reluctant or refuses to meet at this location, or any other public location, that is a strong indication that their intentions are not good,” added the VPD.