Community Guidelines
Atlantic Barter Co. only works because we look out for one another. By joining, you agree to these simple promises. They aren’t fine print — they’re the handshake that holds our block together.
The Atlantic Barter Co. Promise
- Keep it cash-free. This is the heart of Atlantic Barter Co. No money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps, or “just cover the difference in cash.” Trade goods for goods, goods for skills, skills for skills.
- Be honest about what you’re offering. Describe condition truthfully, mention flaws, and use real photos. A trade built on a half-truth hurts the whole community’s trust.
- Trade like a neighbor, not a reseller. Atlantic Barter Co. is for people, not businesses flipping inventory. Personal items and skills only.
- Show up and follow through. If you agree to a trade, honor it. If plans change, message the other person promptly and kindly.
- Be respectful, always. No harassment, hate speech, discrimination, or pressure. Treat every neighbor the way you’d want to be treated.
- Meet safely. Choose public spots, bring a friend when it makes sense, and trust your gut. See our Safe Trading guide.
- Rate honestly. After a trade, leave a fair rating. Reputation is what keeps our community accountable.
What you may not trade
To keep everyone safe and on the right side of the law, the following are not allowed on Atlantic Barter Co.:
- Cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or anything used as money
- Weapons, ammunition, or explosives
- Alcohol, tobacco, vapes, drugs, or drug paraphernalia
- Prescription medication or medical devices
- Live animals
- Recalled, stolen, or counterfeit items
- Adult or sexually explicit goods or services
- Hazardous materials
- Anything illegal to own or trade in your area
Trading skills & services
Offering an hour of dog-walking, a haircut, or help moving a couch is welcome and encouraged — it’s some of the most meaningful bartering there is. Keep services legal, safe, and clearly described, and never offer professional services you aren’t qualified or licensed to provide.
If something goes wrong
If a neighbor breaks these guidelines, asks for cash, or makes you uncomfortable, stop the trade and report it. We’d rather lose a trade than a member’s trust. Repeated or serious violations can lead to removal from Atlantic Barter Co.
A note on spirit
Rules can only do so much. What really makes this work is showing up with generosity — offering a fair trade, giving someone the benefit of the doubt, and remembering that the person on the other end is your neighbor. Trade well, and you make the whole block better.