Some Freecycle Safety Tips

The Freecycle is a great concept. The idea is to save trash by giving unwanted items to other people in need. The rules are pretty simple; everything must be given free and without obligation. I have used Freecycle for many years. In the past, it was a Godsend to help with my growing family that was living in poverty. Now, I use it mainly for giving away items that I no longer need and returning the favor to those that helped me in the past.

However, many that have heard of Freecycle have probably also heard the complaints. Every good thing has its bad points; every rose has it's thorn as the saying goes. While some complaints in regards to Freecycle have to do with "no-shows" and general lack of manners and courtesy of the people using it, there are unfortunately some other more serious dangers you need to keep in mind when using Freecycle.

The standard Freecycle disclaimer states:

Freecycle (R) Members use the list and site at their own risk.

Please take reasonable measures to protect your safety and privacy when posting to group lists or when completing a direct gifting with another member. By joining a Freecycle list, you agree to hold neither the list owners, moderators, nor anyone affiliated with The Freecycle Network responsible or liable for any circumstance resulting from a Freecycle-related gifting or communication.

In addition, each local group and Freecycle branch may have their own rules and safety guidelines. In addition to following the guidelines of your local Freecyle group, you may also set up these own rules or policies for yourself:

Never post your full address or your telephone number with a listing. You can give directions to your house in a private message if wanted later.

If you choose, you can communicate only by email and not give out your personal phone number. Other Freecyclers will need to respect this if they want to deal with you.

If you don't feel comfortable with meeting at a personal residence, arrange to meet in a public place such as the park or a local grocery store parking lot to make the exchange.

Never go to pick up an item alone or without telling someone where you are going. Give the address and call a friend or family member before you leave and when you are safely leaving. Take your cell phone to keep in touch.

Never have someone come pick up an item when you are home alone. Be sure a friend or family member is with you. Some people leave the items outside and keep their doors locked during the pick up.

Don't try to make deals with someone who is breaking the Freecycle rules. They could be out to scam you or harm you in some way.

Report suspicious posts or activity to the moderators.

Never do anything that doesn't feel right. If you have a "gut feeling" that something is wrong, trust it. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Freecycle is meant to be a friendly place and most of the Freecycle users and moderators are kind people just looking to help one another and get rid of some old junk. However, like every good thing, there are some people that will try to exploit it or abuse it so be sure you protect yourself when using the Freecycle or other similar online trading sites. Stay safe and enjoy a pleasant experience with Freecycle.