CarTrader Platform Terms of Use

1. About CarTrader

CarTrader is New Zealand's wholesale vehicle marketplace operated by SourceAI / The Source Distribution Limited. The platform connects licensed motor vehicle traders and verified private sellers with buyers who submit blind wholesale offers on listed vehicles. CarTrader facilitates discovery, offer collection, and deal documentation — it does not take possession of vehicles or hold buyer funds.

2. Who can use it

CarTrader is intended for licensed New Zealand motor vehicle traders (MVT registered) and verified private sellers. By registering you confirm you are authorised to buy or sell vehicles on the platform and that your dealership or business details are accurate.

3. How offers work

Offers on CarTrader are blind — other dealers cannot see your offer amount. Each active listing has an offer window (typically 48 hours). Buyers may submit one offer and one revision per listing. When a seller accepts an offer, the agreed sale price is binding on both parties subject to these terms.

4. Seller obligations

Sellers must provide accurate vehicle details, photos, and recon estimates. The vehicle must match the listing description at the time of sale. Once an offer is accepted, the seller must complete the sale with the winning buyer and prepare the vehicle and documentation (including logbook) for collection.

5. Buyer obligations

An offer submitted on CarTrader is binding for the duration of the offer window. If your offer is accepted, you must complete the purchase at the agreed price and arrange collection and payment with the seller.

6. Payment

Payment is made by direct bank transfer between buyer and seller on collection. CarTrader does not hold funds, provide escrow, or process vehicle payments on behalf of parties.

7. Platform fees

Seller fee: $199 NZD + GST ($228.85 incl. GST) flat fee per completed transaction, charged to your saved payment card when you accept an offer. No fee if a listing expires without a sale.

Buyer fee: None. Buying on CarTrader is free.

Boost listing: $29 NZD + GST ($33.35 incl. GST) for 24-hour featured placement.

Pro subscription: $99 NZD/month + GST for unlimited filters, instant notifications, and offer analytics.

Enterprise subscription: $299 NZD/month + GST for multi-location access, API access, and a dedicated account manager.

Founding dealer partners: zero transaction fees for 6 months and free Pro subscription for 12 months from onboarding date.

8. Disputes

If a vehicle is not as described, contact CarTrader within 48 hours of collection. Disputes are handled through the platform's dispute process. Both parties must cooperate in providing evidence.

9. Prohibited conduct

You must not post false listings, submit shill offers, misrepresent vehicle condition, or use the platform for any unlawful purpose. CarTrader may suspend or remove accounts that breach these terms. Dealers also agree to the standards in our Code of Trading.

10. Governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand, including the Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017. Any disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New Zealand.