Terms and Conditions of Use

TGM Grading Marketplace

Welcome to TGM Grading. These Terms and Conditions govern your access to and use of our platform, services, and any transactions conducted through our marketplace. Please read them carefully before using our services.

By accessing or using TGM Grading services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

1. Definitions

In these General Conditions, the following terms shall have the meanings assigned to them below:

Additional Services

Optional services offered by TGM to enhance the User experience, including featured listings, promotions, and premium visibility options.

Additional Terms

Supplementary conditions that may apply to specific services or transactions, which are incorporated into and form part of these General Conditions.

Buyer

A registered User who purchases Items through the Site using the integrated payment system.

Buy Button

The interface element that, when clicked, initiates the purchase process and creates a binding agreement between Buyer and Seller.

Catalog

The organized collection of Items available for sale on the Site, categorized by type, condition, and other relevant attributes.

Catalog Rules

The specific guidelines governing what Items may be listed, how they must be described, and the standards for photographs and documentation.

Checkout

The process by which a Buyer completes a purchase, including payment processing and order confirmation.

Content

All information, images, descriptions, reviews, messages, and other materials uploaded or transmitted by Users through the Site.

Claim Period

The specified timeframe during which a Buyer may report issues with received Items and request resolution through TGM's dispute system.

Escrow

The secure holding of payment funds by the Payment Provider until the transaction is successfully completed or disputed.

Electronic Wallet

The digital account associated with each User for managing funds, receiving payments, and making purchases on the platform.

Integrated Payment

The payment processing system operated through our authorized Payment Provider for secure transaction handling.

Items

Collectible goods, trading cards, and related merchandise that may be listed for sale on the Site in accordance with the Catalog Rules.

Hosting Services

The technical infrastructure and platform services provided by TGM to facilitate listing, discovery, and transaction of Items.

Payment Provider

The authorized third-party payment processor that handles all financial transactions on the platform.

News

Official announcements, updates, and communications published by TGM regarding platform changes, features, or important information.

Private Messages

The internal messaging system that allows Users to communicate directly with each other regarding transactions or inquiries.

Pro Seller

A Seller who meets specific criteria and maintains elevated performance standards, granting access to enhanced features and visibility.

Seller

A registered User who lists Items for sale on the Site and fulfills orders placed by Buyers.

Services

All functionalities, features, and capabilities provided by TGM through the Site, including listing, buying, selling, and related services.

Significantly Not Compliant

Items that materially differ from their listing description in condition, authenticity, or key characteristics to a degree that affects their value or usability.

Site

The TGM Grading website, mobile applications, and any associated platforms or interfaces through which Services are provided.

Social Accounts

Third-party social media accounts that may be linked to a User's TGM account for authentication or sharing purposes.

General Conditions

These Terms and Conditions of Use, including all appendices, policies, and guidelines incorporated by reference.

Total Price

The complete cost of a transaction, including Item price, applicable shipping costs, taxes, and any service fees.

Transaction

A completed purchase agreement between a Buyer and Seller facilitated through the Site's integrated payment system.

User

Any individual or entity that creates an account and uses the Services, whether as Buyer, Seller, or both.

User Account

The registered profile containing the User's information, transaction history, wallet, and platform settings.

Visitor

Any person who accesses the Site without creating an account or logging in.

TGM Merchandise

Official branded products sold directly by TGM, including accessories, supplies, and promotional items.

Privacy Policy

The document describing how TGM collects, uses, stores, and protects User personal data in compliance with applicable laws.

2. Introduction and Scope

These General Conditions govern your access to and use of the Site and Services. By creating an account or using our Services, you enter into a binding agreement with TGM Grading.

TGM provides a marketplace platform that enables Users to list, discover, buy, and sell collectible Items. We act as an intermediary facilitating transactions between Buyers and Sellers.

You must be at least 18 years old, or the age of legal majority in your jurisdiction, to create an account and use our Services. Minors may only use the platform under parental supervision.

Visitors may browse the Site and view public listings without registration. However, purchasing, selling, or accessing certain features requires a registered User Account.

To create an account, you must provide accurate and complete information, including a valid email address and, where required, identity verification documents.

Use of certain features may be subject to additional terms from third-party service providers, including our Payment Provider. You agree to comply with all applicable third-party terms.

TGM reserves the right to modify these General Conditions at any time. Changes will be communicated through the Site or via email to registered Users.

Continued use of the Services after notification of changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms. If you disagree with changes, you must discontinue use of the Services.

Some modifications, particularly those addressing security, legal compliance, or urgent issues, may take effect immediately without prior notice.

New features or services introduced to the platform will be subject to these General Conditions unless otherwise specified in Additional Terms.

3. Item Listings

Allowed Items

The following categories of Items may be listed on the Site, subject to the Catalog Rules and all applicable conditions:

Trading cards and collectible card games (TCG)
Graded and authenticated collectibles
Sealed and unopened products
Accessories and supplies for collectors
Other items as approved by TGM administration

Listing Creation

Sellers are responsible for creating accurate listings with clear descriptions, quality photographs, and honest condition assessments. All required fields must be completed truthfully.

Sale Offer

Each listing constitutes an offer to sell the described Item at the stated price. By clicking the Buy Button, a Buyer accepts this offer, creating a binding purchase agreement.

Listing Modifications

Sellers may modify listings that have not received purchase commitments. Once a purchase is initiated, the listing terms become fixed for that transaction.

Default Display Order

Listings are displayed based on various factors including relevance, recency, seller reputation, and algorithmic optimization for user experience.

Listing Ranking Criteria

The visibility and positioning of listings in search results and category pages is determined by the following factors:

Relevance to search queries and filters applied
Seller performance metrics and reputation score
Listing completeness and quality of images
Pricing competitiveness within the category
Use of promotional or featured listing services
Recency of listing creation or updates

These ranking criteria are designed to provide Buyers with the most relevant and trustworthy options while rewarding Sellers who maintain high standards.

Additional Listing Services

TGM offers optional services to enhance listing visibility and sales performance:

Available Services

Sellers may purchase the following promotional services:

Flash Sale: Time-limited discounts with enhanced visibility in dedicated promotional sections.

Collection Feature: Curated groupings of related Items with enhanced discovery options.

Private Sale: Invitation-only listings for exclusive buyer groups.

Preorders: Advance listings for upcoming releases with deposit collection.

Service Payment

Fees for additional services are charged to the Seller's Electronic Wallet and are non-refundable once the service is activated.

Content Removal

TGM reserves the right to remove or modify listings that violate these Conditions, including but not limited to:

Listings containing prohibited or counterfeit items
Misleading descriptions or manipulated images
Pricing manipulation or shill bidding
Duplicate listings or catalog spam
Content that violates intellectual property rights
Listings that violate applicable laws or regulations

4. Buying Items

By clicking the Buy Button, you enter into a binding purchase agreement with the Seller. You commit to pay the Total Price and complete the transaction.

Transactions must be completed through the Site's integrated payment system. Circumventing the platform to complete transactions externally is prohibited.

Some Items may be offered through auction format. Bids are binding commitments, and the highest bidder at auction close is obligated to complete the purchase.

Sellers are responsible for shipping Items within the timeframes specified in their listings. Buyers should track shipments and report delivery issues promptly.

Payment funds are held in escrow by our Payment Provider until the Buyer confirms receipt or the Claim Period expires without dispute.

The escrow system provides transaction security but is not insurance. TGM does not guarantee Item condition beyond facilitating dispute resolution.

Buyers have a specified Claim Period after delivery to inspect Items and report any issues. The standard Claim Period is 3 days from confirmed delivery.

If Items are lost or damaged during shipping, Buyers must report the issue within the Claim Period. Resolution depends on shipping insurance and carrier policies.

Items that are Significantly Not Compliant with their listing description may be returned for refund, subject to TGM's dispute resolution process.

Refund requests must be submitted through the platform's dispute system with supporting documentation including photographs of the received Item.

Cancelled transactions will be refunded to the Buyer's original payment method or Electronic Wallet, minus any applicable processing fees.

Refunds are not available for Items that match their listing description, buyer's remorse, or price changes in the market.

TGM facilitates refund processing but is not the source of refund funds. Refunds come from the held escrow amount or, in disputes, from Seller funds.

For eligible returns, Buyers must follow these requirements:

Return request submitted within the Claim Period
Item returned in the same condition as received
Original packaging included when applicable
Return shipping tracked and insured
Photo documentation of packaging before return

TGM has zero tolerance for counterfeit Items. Suspected counterfeits will be investigated, and confirmed cases result in:

Immediate listing removal and Seller suspension
Full refund to the Buyer
Permanent account termination for repeat offenders
Reporting to relevant authorities when required

5. Payment and Fees

All transactions are processed through our secure integrated payment system operated by our authorized Payment Provider.

Payment is collected from Buyers upon purchase confirmation and held in escrow until transaction completion or dispute resolution.

The payment system may only be used for legitimate transactions on the platform. Fraudulent or manipulative use is prohibited.

You may not use another person's payment credentials without authorization or allow others to use your payment methods.

The payment system may only be used for Items and services permitted under these Conditions and the Catalog Rules.

Prices are displayed in the platform's base currency. Currency conversion, where applicable, is handled by the Payment Provider. Users are responsible for any applicable taxes.

6. Electronic Wallet

Each User Account includes an Electronic Wallet for managing funds on the platform. Wallet activation may require identity verification.

TGM and our Payment Provider may require Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for wallet access, withdrawal, or high-value transactions.

Users may withdraw available wallet balance to linked bank accounts, subject to verification requirements and any applicable withdrawal fees.

7. Shipping

Sellers determine shipping options, carriers, and pricing for their listings. Shipping costs are clearly displayed before purchase completion.

Shipping costs are included in the Total Price and collected through the integrated payment system.

Sellers commit to ship Items within the timeframe specified in their listings, using the carrier and service level indicated.

8. User Interaction

TGM provides a Private Messages system for transaction-related communication between Users.

The messaging system must be used appropriately. The following content is strictly prohibited:

Solicitation to complete transactions outside the platform
Personal contact information for off-platform communication
Threatening, harassing, or abusive messages
Spam, advertisements, or promotional content
Links to external websites or competing platforms
Any illegal content or solicitation

TGM may employ automated systems to monitor messages for policy violations. Suspected violations may be reviewed by staff.

Users may leave feedback and ratings for completed transactions. Feedback must be honest and directly related to the transaction experience.

Manipulating the feedback system through fake reviews, feedback extortion, or coordinated rating manipulation is prohibited and may result in account suspension.

9. Liability

Users are fully responsible for their actions on the platform, including the accuracy of their listings and fulfillment of their transaction obligations.

Users must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in their jurisdiction, including those governing e-commerce, taxation, and consumer protection.

TGM provides a platform for transactions but is not a party to individual sales. We do not guarantee Item quality, authenticity (except for TGM-graded Items), or Seller performance.

Users are responsible for all Content they upload or transmit. TGM is not liable for User-generated content but may remove content that violates these Conditions.

Users must report any suspected illegal content through our designated reporting channels. TGM will investigate and take appropriate action.

Content that violates platform policies may be reported through the built-in reporting system. Reports are reviewed and actioned within established timeframes.

Sellers must ensure Items comply with applicable product safety regulations. Recalled or unsafe products may not be listed.

Users are responsible for determining and paying any applicable taxes on their transactions. TGM may provide transaction summaries but does not provide tax advice.

TGM implements reasonable security measures to protect User data. However, no system is completely secure, and Users should take appropriate precautions.

10. User Obligations

All Users share responsibility for maintaining a safe, trustworthy marketplace environment.

Users must adhere to the following fundamental rules:

Provide accurate information in account registration and listings
Maintain the security of account credentials
Complete transactions in good faith
Communicate respectfully with other Users
Report violations and suspicious activity
Keep contact and payment information current

The following actions are strictly prohibited:

Creating multiple accounts to circumvent restrictions
Manipulating prices, feedback, or search rankings
Using bots or automation without authorization
Interfering with platform operation or security
Engaging in money laundering or fraudulent activity
Violating the intellectual property rights of others
Harassing, threatening, or discriminating against other Users

Systematic collection, scraping, or harvesting of User data or platform content is prohibited without explicit authorization.

Users must maintain the confidentiality of their account credentials. Any unauthorized access must be reported immediately.

Users must keep their account information accurate and current, including email addresses, payment information, and shipping addresses.

By using the Services, each User declares and warrants that:

They have legal capacity to enter into binding agreements
All information provided is accurate and complete
They will comply with these Conditions and applicable laws
They have the right to list and sell any Items offered
They will fulfill all transaction obligations

11. Account Restrictions and Termination

Limitation and Suspension

TGM may limit, suspend, or terminate User access to the Services for violations of these Conditions. Available measures include:

Warning notifications for minor violations
Temporary listing restrictions
Suspension of selling or buying privileges
Withdrawal restrictions on wallet funds
Full account suspension
Permanent account termination

TGM commits to applying measures proportionate to the severity and frequency of violations, considering the User's history and circumstances.

Actions with Prior Notice

For most violations, TGM will provide notice and opportunity to remedy before taking action. Notice may be provided when:

Listing violations that can be corrected
Minor policy infractions
Account information requiring update
Performance issues requiring improvement

Immediate Actions

TGM may take immediate action without prior notice in cases involving:

Suspected fraud or illegal activity
Significant harm or risk to other Users
Legal or regulatory requirements
Critical security threats
Security Violations
The following security-related violations warrant immediate account termination:
- Attempting to access other Users' accounts
- Exploiting platform vulnerabilities
- Distributing malware or harmful content
- Coordinated inauthentic behavior

Counterfeit item sales
Severe or repeated policy violations
Court orders or law enforcement requests
Fraudulent dispute claims

Notification of Actions

When TGM takes action against an account, we will notify the User via email explaining the reason and available remedies. Exceptions to notification include:

Legal prohibition on disclosure
Active fraud or security investigation
Risk of harm from notification

TGM retains the right to investigate suspected violations using available information, including transaction records, messages, and User Content.

Users subject to account actions may submit appeals through our designated process. Appeals are reviewed by staff not involved in the original decision.

12. TGM Rights and Services

TGM may reorganize, restructure, or modify the Catalog, categories, and site organization to improve User experience and platform functionality.

TGM may conduct promotional campaigns, featured listings, and special events. Participation may be subject to Additional Terms.

TGM reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the Services with reasonable notice to Users.

For Items sold directly by TGM (TGM Merchandise), we provide standard consumer warranty protections as required by applicable law.

TGM charges fees for certain Services, including transaction fees, listing fees, and optional promotional services. Fee schedules are published on the Site.

TGM complies with applicable European Union regulations, including the Platform-to-Business Regulation and Digital Services Act requirements.

13. Data Protection

The collection, use, and protection of personal data is governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Conditions by reference.

Users must provide accurate personal information and update it promptly when changes occur.

TGM processes User data as described in the Privacy Policy. Users retain rights regarding their personal data as provided by applicable law.

14. TGM Merchandise

TGM may offer branded merchandise and supplies for sale directly to Users. These sales are governed by these Conditions and any applicable consumer protection laws.

15. Catalog Rules

These rules govern what may be listed and how listings must be created.

The following categories of Items are permitted on the platform:

Trading cards from supported games and sets
Professionally graded collectibles
Sealed and authenticated products
Official accessories and supplies
Other items as specifically approved

High-value Items or those requiring authentication must include appropriate documentation, certificates, or provenance information.

Prohibited Items

The following Items may not be listed under any circumstances:

Counterfeit, replica, or fake items
Stolen merchandise or items with disputed ownership
Items that infringe intellectual property rights
Hazardous materials or weapons
Items prohibited by applicable law
Digital goods or services (unless specifically authorized)
Items not related to the collectibles categories we support

General Listing Rules

Listings must be in the correct category
Descriptions must be accurate and complete
Condition must be honestly assessed using standard grades
Price must be in the platform's accepted currency
Shipping options must be clearly specified
All Item defects must be disclosed

Photo Requirements

All listings must include photographs that:

Clearly show the actual Item being sold
Include front and back views where applicable
Highlight any defects or damage
Are well-lit and in focus
Are not copied from other sources
Do not include watermarks obscuring the Item

Intellectual Property Policy

Users must respect the intellectual property rights of others
Counterfeit or infringing items will be removed
Rights holders may report infringement through our designated process
Repeat infringers face permanent account termination

Catalog Rule Violations

Violations of Catalog Rules may result in:

Listing removal or modification requirements
Selling restrictions
Financial penalties deducted from wallet balance
Account suspension or termination

TGM may modify Catalog Rules at any time to address new product categories, market developments, or policy refinements.

Non-compliant listings may be removed without notice. TGM will make reasonable efforts to notify Sellers of removals and the reasons.

16. Legal Provisions

These Conditions are governed by the laws of Italy. For Users in the European Union, mandatory consumer protection laws of their country of residence also apply.

Disputes should be resolved through the following escalation process:

Direct communication between the parties involved
TGM's internal dispute resolution system
Online dispute resolution platform for EU consumers (ODR)
Competent courts of the User's place of residence or TGM's registered office

Either party may terminate the contractual relationship by providing written notice. Users may close their accounts at any time through account settings.

All TGM trademarks, logos, designs, and original content are protected by intellectual property laws. Use without authorization is prohibited.

By uploading Content, Users grant TGM a license to use, display, and distribute such Content for platform operation and promotional purposes.

TGM will send notifications regarding account matters, transactions, and policy changes via email and platform notifications.

These Conditions do not create any partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship between Users and TGM.

TGM may assign or transfer these Conditions and associated rights to any successor or affiliate. Users may not transfer their accounts without authorization.

Users may object to changes in these Conditions by terminating their account before the changes take effect.

If any provision of these Conditions is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

These Conditions, together with the Privacy Policy and any Additional Terms, constitute the entire agreement between Users and TGM regarding the Services.

Legal Acknowledgment

By using TGM Grading services, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions in their entirety.