Evidence Requirements
Transparent fraud-prevention documentation rules for buyers and sellers. Clear evidence protocols protect both parties and ensure fast dispute resolution.
Why Evidence Matters
Evidence documentation is critical during Trustower transactions. If a dispute arises, the parties with clear, timestamped evidence have a significant advantage in dispute resolution. The evidence protocol is established when the transaction is registered and refined during the protection setup phase.
During the pilot phase: You establish what evidence will be collected. At launch, this evidence is uploaded and reviewed to ensure transparency and prevent fraud.
📹 Video Evidence
Videos provide irrefutable proof of condition, functionality, and delivery. Timestamps and continuous footage prevent tampering claims.
- ✓ Unboxing videos (continuous, no cuts)
- ✓ Functionality testing
- ✓ Condition inspection
- ✓ Serial number verification
📸 Photo Evidence
High-quality photos with timestamps show condition, damage, serial numbers, and packaging. Multiple angles provide comprehensive documentation.
- ✓ Multiple condition angles
- ✓ Serial numbers (close-up)
- ✓ Shipping label
- ✓ Packaging condition
Buyer Evidence Requirements
Continuous Unboxing Video
Required for all product transactions over $500
Requirements:
- ✓ Continuous Recording: No cuts or edits. Start before opening the package.
- ✓ Timestamp Visible: Date and time stamp must be visible in video
- ✓ Full Unboxing: Show all layers, packing materials, and the item itself
- ✓ Serial Number Check: Zoom in on serial numbers and compare to agreement
- ✓ Functionality Test: Power on the item, demonstrate it works as described
- ✓ Condition Assessment: Show any damage, scratches, or defects
- ✓ Minimum Length: 3-5 minutes depending on item complexity
Pro Tip:
Record in good lighting on a stable surface. Use your phone—don't need professional equipment. Upload directly to Trustower platform.
Shipping Label & Carrier Proof
Proof that item was received
What to Upload:
- ✓ Carrier Tracking Number: FedEx, UPS, DHL tracking
- ✓ Shipping Label Photo: Visible barcode and destination address
- ✓ Delivery Confirmation: Carrier's delivery receipt (timestamp, signature, location)
- ✓ Date Received: Screenshot from carrier showing delivery date
⚠️ Important:
Carrier tracking is independent proof. Disputes are resolved faster when tracking confirms delivery.
Product Condition Photos
Multiple angles to document condition
Required Photos:
- ✓ Overall Condition: Full item view, multiple angles
- ✓ Serial Numbers (Close-up): Clear, readable photos of all serial numbers
- ✓ Any Damage: Close-up photos of any scratches, dents, or defects
- ✓ Packaging: Original box/packaging condition
- ✓ Accessories: All included accessories photographed
- ✓ Timestamp Metadata: Photos should have timestamp in metadata
Pro Tip:
Use your phone's camera—metadata includes timestamp. Take photos in natural light for accuracy.
Communication Record
All messages between buyer and seller
Important:
- ✓ Use Trustower Messaging: All communication through Trustower platform (not email or external chat)
- ✓ Timestamped: Trustower automatically timestamps all messages
- ✓ Disputes Reference: If there's a disagreement, your message history is automatically included in dispute resolution
✓ Best Practice:
Document your expectations clearly in messages. "I expect the item to arrive in original packaging in like-new condition" creates a clear record.
Seller Evidence Requirements
Packing Process Video
Proves the item was packed correctly and securely
Requirements:
- ✓ Item Condition: Show item before packing (no damage)
- ✓ Serial Number Verification: Verify serial numbers match agreement
- ✓ Packing Materials: Show padding, boxes, bubble wrap, etc.
- ✓ Sealing Process: Show the package being sealed and labeled
- ✓ Timestamp: Date and time visible in the video
Pro Tip:
This video protects you. If the buyer claims the item arrived damaged, your packing video proves you shipped it safely.
Product Condition & Functionality Photos/Video
Proof that the item works as described
Requirements:
- ✓ Power-On Test: Video showing the item turning on and functioning
- ✓ Serial Number Visible: Close-up photos of serial numbers
- ✓ Overall Condition Photos: Multiple angles showing condition matches description
- ✓ Accessories Included: Photo of all accessories that should ship with the item
- ✓ No Damage: Clear documentation of the item's condition
✓ Best Practice:
Test the item thoroughly before shipping. If something doesn't work, disclose it in the transaction agreement.
Serial Number Documentation
If the transaction specifies serial numbers (common for electronics)
Requirements:
- ✓ Clear Close-ups: All serial numbers visible and readable
- ✓ Multiple Images: Different angles to prove authenticity
- ✓ Serial Numbers Match Agreement: Verify they match what was promised
- ✓ Timestamp: Photo metadata should show date/time
⚠️ Important:
Serial numbers are especially important for high-value electronics and collectibles. Clear documentation prevents swap fraud claims.
Shipping Label & Tracking
Proof of shipment to the buyer
Requirements:
- ✓ Shipping Label Photo: Barcode and destination address visible
- ✓ Carrier Tracking Number: FedEx, UPS, DHL tracking
- ✓ Ship Date: Timestamp from carrier
- ✓ Package Weight/Dimensions: From carrier (proves correct package)
✓ Best Practice:
Use reputable carriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL) with tracking. This protects both you and the buyer.
Evidence in Common Scenarios
Scenario: Buyer Claims Item Arrived Damaged
Seller's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Packing video showing secure packaging
- ✓ Condition photos before shipping
- ✓ Carrier tracking showing delivery
Buyer's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Unboxing video showing damage
- ✓ Carrier delivery confirmation
- ✓ Photos of damage with timestamps
Scenario: Buyer Claims Item is Fake/Counterfe it
Seller's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Serial number photos/video
- ✓ Serial number verification from manufacturer
- ✓ Proof of authenticity from original seller/box
Buyer's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Unboxing video showing counterfeit signs
- ✓ Manufacturer verification of fake serial
- ✓ Third-party inspection report
Scenario: Seller Claims Buyer Never Received Item
Seller's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Carrier tracking showing delivery
- ✓ Signature confirmation
- ✓ Tracking updates from carrier
Buyer's Winning Evidence:
- ✓ Photos showing package never arrived
- ✓ Carrier confirmation of non-delivery
- ✓ Messages asking seller to reship
Best Practices for Evidence
✅ DO
- ✓ Record videos in good lighting
- ✓ Ensure timestamps are visible
- ✓ Use carrier tracking services
- ✓ Take multiple photos of serial numbers
- ✓ Document all communication in Trustower
- ✓ Save all receipts and proof of purchase
- ✓ Keep evidence organized and labeled
❌ DON'T
- ✗ Edit or cut videos (must be continuous)
- ✗ Communicate outside Trustower
- ✗ Hide or obscure serial numbers
- ✗ Use blurry or low-quality photos
- ✗ Ship without tracking
- ✗ Skip documentation steps
- ✗ Delay uploading evidence
Ready to Register Your Transaction?
Clear evidence protocols protect both buyer and seller. Register your deal now and establish your evidence requirements.
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