Shapework.io – Buyer Policy

Effective Date: 01/06/2025

Applies To: All Buyers using ShapeWork.io to purchase freelance services
Issued By: Shapework.io, operated by Shapeways.io (UK & Ghana entities)

12. Modifications

This Buyer Policy sets out the rules, responsibilities, and expectations for clients (“Buyers”) purchasing freelance digital services through ShapeWork.io. By using the platform, you agree to follow this policy and the platform’s Terms and Conditions.

2. Eligibility Requirements

To become a Buyer on ShapeWork.io, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be legally capable of entering binding contracts
  • Use the platform in compliance with the laws of your country and our Terms.

3. Account Responsibility

  • You must create and maintain an account to hire Freelancers.
  • You are responsible for keeping your login credentials secure.
  • All information provided must be accurate and current.
  • We may suspend or terminate accounts that violate our policies.

4. Purchasing Services

  • Freelancers list their services (called “Gigs”) for sale.
  • Buyers can place orders directly via the platform.
  • All payments must be made through ShapeWork.io via Stripe.
  • ShapeWork.io facilitates transactions but is not a party to service contracts between Buyers and Freelancers.

5. Payments & Fees

  • All prices are shown in USD unless otherwise stated.
  • Buyers pay the full order amount at the time of purchase.
  • ShapeWork.io retains a 25% service fee per order (deducted from the Freelancer's earnings).
  • Freelancers receive 75% of the order value via their Platform Wallet after completion.

6. Refunds & Dispute Resolution

Buyers may request a refund if:

  • The Freelancer fails to deliver the service
  • The delivered work is incomplete or not as described.

Refund Policy:

  • Disputes must be raised within 7 calendar days after the order is marked complete.
  • ShapeWork.io will investigate and mediate disputes. Our decision is final and binding.
  • Approved refunds are processed via the original payment method.

7. Code of Conduct for Buyers

Buyers must:

  • Treat Freelancers respectfully and professionally
  • Not attempt to circumvent the platform (e.g., by arranging off-platform payments
  • Not submit fraudulent, abusive, or unlawful requests
  • Respect the Freelancer’s intellectual property rights.

Violations of this policy may lead to account suspension or termination without prior notice.

8. Intellectual Property

  • Unless agreed otherwise in writing:
  • Freelancers retain copyright of their original work.
  • Buyers receive a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the work for its intended purpose once full payment has been made.
  • You may not resell or redistribute work unless explicitly allowed.

9. Platform Limitations

ShapeWork.io provides the platform “as-is” and makes no guarantees regarding:

  • Service performance or outcome
  • Freelancer behaviour or delivery time
  • Platform uptime or availability
  • Stripe or banking payment delays

10. Account Suspension or Termination

Your Buyer account may be suspended or closed if:

  • You violate this Buyer Policy or our Terms of Use
  • You engage in fraud, harassment, or unethical behaviour
  • You attempt to abuse the dispute or refund system

11. Policy Updates

ShapeWork.io reserves the right to revise this policy at any time. Continued use of the platform after updates implies acceptance of the new terms.

12. Legal Jurisdiction

This policy is governed by:

  • The laws of the United Kingdom, where our parent company is incorporated; and
  • The laws of Ghana, where our operational base is located.

Disputes may be resolved in the courts of either jurisdiction, at our discretion.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions, please reach out:

Email: info@shapeways.io
UK Office: Shapeways.io – Registered in England and Wales
Ghana Office: Babona Engen Filling Station, Weija Junction