FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about buying and selling on Midstream Things. Can't find your answer? WhatsApp us and we'll help.
For Buyers 🛒
What is Midstream Things?
Midstream Things is a local online marketplace exclusively for the Midstream community. Your neighbours list their products — from baked goods and prepared meals to handmade crafts and beauty products — and you can order them with quick delivery right to your door within the estate.
How does delivery work?
We offer three options at checkout. Quick delivery within Midstream for R40 — we collect the product from the seller and bring it to you. Courier option to send it anywhere within the country. Or you can choose to collect for free. Delivery is available Monday to Friday for Courier options. Saturday deliveries are based on operational capacity over the weekends and are subject to confirmation before delivery.
How fast is delivery?
For products with a lead time (e.g., made-to-order items), the estimated availability is shown on the product page or will be communicated with you directly.
Is it safe to pay online?
Absolutely. All payments are processed securely through PayFast, Peach Payments, Stitch or Yoco, South Africa's most trusted payment gateways. We accept credit cards, debit cards, instant EFT, and SnapScan. Your payment details are never stored on our site.
Can I return a product?
Return policies vary by seller and are displayed on each product page. For food items and perishables, returns are generally not accepted unless the product is faulty or not as described. If you have an issue with an order, contact us within 24 hours and we'll sort it out. Delivery fees are non-refundable.
What if I change my mind about a product, can I return it?
For non-food items, Buyers may request a return within seven (7) days of delivery if the item is unused, unopened and in original packaging.
No returns are accepted for food or perishable items, except where the product is defective, damaged, or materially different from the listing.
Who am I buying from?
You're buying from local Midstream residents and businesses. We verify every seller before their products go live.
What if my order is wrong or damaged?
Contact us immediately via WhatsApp or email with a photo of the issue. We'll work with the seller to resolve it — either a replacement, refund, or credit. Your satisfaction matters to us.
Do you deliver outside Midstream?
Yes however, we make use of a courier service to deliver to you. Midstream delivery costs do not apply. If you select the wrong courier option, we will contact you to settle the difference before shipping takes place.
How do I track my order?
Once your order is confirmed and out for delivery, we'll send you a notification. For same-day deliveries within the estate, tracking isn't necessary — we'll be at your door shortly.
Is there a minimum order amount?
There's no minimum order for the marketplace overall. Some individual products may have a minimum order quantity, which will be shown on the product page.
Can I contact the seller directly?
All communication and transactions go through Midstream Things. This protects both you and the seller and ensures a consistent experience. If you have questions about a product, contact us and we'll provide feedback.
For Sellers 🏪
How do I start selling on Midstream Things?
Visit our "Sell on Midstream Things" page and fill in the short signup form. We'll be in touch within 24 hours to collect your product details, photos, and prices. We handle the listing — you don't need any tech skills.
What does it cost to sell?
For our launch period, the first 6 months are completely free — no monthly fees, no signup costs. A small fulfilment fee is deducted when you make a sale. After 6 months, a small monthly subscription applies to keep your products live and the site operational.
What fees do you charge?
New Sellers get their first 6 months subscription for free. We deduct a small fulfilment fee on each sale. The exact percentage depends on your product category and price point. We'll discuss this during your onboarding. You set your selling price — the customer pays your price, and the fulfilment fee is deducted before your payout.
How do I get paid?
When a customer buys your product, we collect the payment. Your earnings (sale price minus fulfilment fee) is paid out to you. We'll confirm the payout schedule during your onboarding.
Do I need to handle delivery?
No. We collect the product from you and deliver it to the buyer within Midstream. All you need to do is have the product ready when we come to collect. We'll coordinate collection times with you.
What products can I sell?
Anything legal! Baked goods, prepared meals, handmade products, beauty items, electronics, clothing, home goods, pet products, and more. We also list services like plumbing, tutoring, beauty treatments, etc. If you're unsure whether your product fits, just ask.
Do I need to be a registered business?
No. Whether you're a home baker, a hobbyist crafter, or a registered business — all are welcome. However, certain product categories (like food) may require compliance with local health regulations, which is your responsibility.
Can I set my own prices?
Yes, 100%. You tell us what price you want to sell at, and that's the price we list. Do keep in mind that the fulfilment fee is deducted from the price you set. The customer pays the listed price.
How many products can I list?
There's no limit. List as many products as you want. We'll work with you to create professional listings for each one.
Will I know when someone buys my product?
Yes. You'll receive an automatic notification when a sale is made. We'll also contact you to arrange collection of the product for delivery.
Do I need to take my own product photos?
Good photos help products sell, so if you can take clear, well-lit photos, that's ideal. If not, we can put you in touch with a photography service to help you improve them. We'll guide you on what works best.
What if a customer wants to return my product?
We handle all customer communication. If a return is requested, we'll discuss it with you first. You set your own return policy (e.g., "no returns on food items" or "7-day returns on unused items"), and we display it on your product page. Note that the Consumer Protection Act will override any conditions stipulated.
Do I have to live in Midstream?
Yes, as it makes collection and delivery faster. This is meant to be a community initiative in order to support our local residents. However, sellers in nearby areas (Centurion, Midrand, Irene) may be considered in the future, especially for non-perishable products or services.
Can I sell services instead of products?
Yes! We list services like home repairs, beauty treatments, tutoring, pet care, photography, and more. Your service listing will include your description, pricing, availability and verified client testimonials.
How do I update my product prices or details?
Let us know via WhatsApp or email and we'll update your listings. We manage the product pages, any changes go through us to ensure consistency across the marketplace.
Still have questions?
We're here to help. Reach out to us via WhatsApp or email at office@midstreamthings.co.za and we'll get back to you within 48 hours.