UT Marketplace

About UT Marketplace

UT Marketplace (UTMP) is a student-run platform designed to help University of Texas students buy and sell items safely within the campus community. By connecting verified UT users, UTMP makes it easier to find affordable items nearby while promoting reuse and reducing waste. Our goal is to create a convenient, trustworthy marketplace built specifically for Longhorns.

How to Use UTMP

  • Create account: Sign up using your UT email (utexas domain) to access UT Marketplace. This helps keep the platform limited to the UT community and improves trust between buyers and sellers.
  • Browse or list: Browse items by category or search for something specific, or create your own listing if you have something to sell. Listings include photos, descriptions, and pricing to help you quickly evaluate items.
  • Message: Use UTMP messaging to contact buyers or sellers, ask questions, and agree on price and pickup details. Keeping communication within UTMP helps maintain a record and improves safety.
  • Meet & exchange: Once you agree on a transaction, meet in a busy public location on or near campus to complete the exchange. Inspect items and complete payment in person.

How to Buy

  • Search & filters: Use search or category, relevance, date, and pricing filters to find items you need. Listings include key details like condition, price, and seller information.
  • Contact seller: Message the seller through UTMP to confirm availability, ask questions, or arrange a meeting time and location.
  • Ask questions: Before meeting, clarify the condition, included parts, and any defects so there are no surprises during the exchange.
  • Meet safely: Meet in a well-lit public campus location such as academic buildings, libraries, or other busy areas. Avoid private residences or isolated locations.
  • Inspect before paying: Check that the item matches the listing and works as described before completing payment. Only pay after you are satisfied with the item.

How to Sell

  • Create listing: Post your item with a clear title, category, price, and accurate condition. Honest listings build trust and lead to faster sales.
  • Photos: Upload clear, well-lit photos showing the item from multiple angles and any wear or defects. Buyers rely heavily on photos.
  • Description: Include relevant details such as brand, size, condition, included accessories, and pickup preferences. The more specific you are, the fewer questions you’ll receive.
  • Pricing: Set a fair, realistic price based on condition and market value. Competitive pricing increases visibility and the likelihood of sale.
  • Respond to buyers: Reply promptly and communicate clearly about availability and meeting logistics. Reliable communication improves trust and completion rates.
  • Meet safely: Arrange to meet in a public campus location and complete payment only after the buyer has inspected the item. Do not share sensitive personal information.

FAQs

Do I need a UT email?

Yes. UT Marketplace currently requires a valid UT email to create an account. This helps keep the community limited to UT students and improves safety.

Where should we meet?

We recommend busy public campus locations such as academic buildings (GDC, McCombs, Welch, EER, etc), the PCL, Texas Union, WCP, or other high-traffic areas. Avoid private residences.

What payment methods are recommended?

In-person payment after inspection is recommended. Common methods include cash or peer-to-peer payments (e.g., Venmo, Zelle). Avoid paying in advance or using gift cards or wire transfers.

Is UTMP free?

Yes. UT Marketplace is free to use for UT students.

How do I report a user?

You can report a listing or user directly through the Contact Us page or via email contact@longhorns.dev. Reports help us review suspicious behavior and maintain a safe marketplace.

Can UT alumni use UTMP?

At this time, UTMP is limited to active UT students with valid UT email addresses to maintain a trusted campus community.

What items are prohibited?

Prohibited items include illegal items, weapons, counterfeit goods, academic materials that violate university policy, and anything restricted by UT or local laws. Listings may be removed if they violate guidelines. See the Terms of Service for more information.

What if a buyer/seller doesn’t show up?

Missed meetups can happen. We recommend confirming the time and location shortly before the meeting. Repeated no-shows or abuse can be reported within UTMP.