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The Universal Things — Your Complete B2B Marketplace. One solution for all your business needs. Connect with suppliers, service providers, and partners across industries.
Last updated: September 3, 2025
Getting started
What is The Universal Things?
The Universal Things is a complete B2B marketplace connecting buyers with verified suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers across industries—one solution for all your business needs.
Who can use the platform?
Any registered business or professional team—buyers sourcing products/services and suppliers offering goods or services. Individual consumer use isn’t supported.
How do I create an account?
Click Sign Up, enter your work email, verify it, and complete your company profile with basic information and documents (if applicable).
Is there a free plan?
Yes. You can browse, create a profile, and post limited RFQs on the free tier. Paid plans unlock advanced features like bulk RFQs, analytics, and priority verification.
Verification & compliance
How does supplier verification work?
We review company registration, ownership, compliance documents, and risk signals. Verified profiles display a badge and can access additional marketplace features.
How long does verification take?
Most reviews complete within 2–5 business days after you submit all required documents. Complex cases can take longer if we need clarifications.
What documents are required?
Typically: business registration, tax certificates, identity documents for authorized signatories, and product certifications where applicable.
Do you support KYC/KYB and sanctions screening?
Yes. We partner with verification providers to run KYB/KYC, PEP/sanctions lists, and adverse media checks where required by law.
Listings, RFQs & matching
How do I create a listing?
From your dashboard, choose Create Listing, add detailed specs, certifications, pricing model, MOQs, and lead times. Attach clear images and datasheets for better conversion.
What is an RFQ?
An RFQ (Request for Quote) lets buyers post their requirements. Suppliers can respond with quotes and lead times, and buyers can shortlist and award requests.
How does AI-powered matching work?
Our models use your RFQ specs and marketplace signals to suggest high-probability supplier matches. You always control outreach and can refine filters.
Can I restrict who sees my RFQ?
Yes. Use visibility controls to share with verified suppliers, specific regions, or a private shortlist.
Transactions & communication
Do payments happen on the platform?
You can use integrated payment options (where available) or arrange payments directly with the supplier. Escrow is offered in select regions and categories.
How do I communicate with counterparties?
Use secure in-platform messaging to share files and negotiate terms. For transparency and dispute resolution, keep key decisions inside the thread.
How are disputes handled?
Open a case from the order or thread. Provide evidence such as POs, invoices, shipping docs, and chat history. Our team reviews and mediates based on policy.
Can I leave ratings and reviews?
Yes. After a transaction, buyers can rate suppliers and leave feedback that’s visible to other buyers once verified.
Billing & invoices
What payment methods are supported for subscriptions?
Major credit/debit cards are supported globally. Bank transfer/wire is available for annual plans in select countries.
Where can I download invoices?
Head to Settings → Billing to view payment history and download invoices with tax details.
Do you charge transaction fees?
Marketplace fees vary by category and region. You’ll see any applicable fees before confirming a transaction.
Can I change or cancel my plan?
Yes. You can switch plans at any time. Cancellations apply at the next renewal unless required by law.
Security & privacy
How do you protect my data?
We use encryption in transit, access controls, monitoring, and regular audits. Enable 2FA for your account for additional protection.
Do you sell personal information?
No. We don’t sell personal information. Data is processed as described in our Privacy Policy.
How can I export or delete my data?
Request a data export or deletion from Settings or email support; we’ll guide you through verification and timelines.
Where can I read your Privacy Policy?
You can find it at /privacy, including details on cookies, legal bases, and your rights.
Shipping, logistics & compliance
Do you handle shipping?
You can integrate preferred logistics partners or use recommended providers at checkout (where supported).
How do taxes and duties work?
Incoterms and destination country rules apply. Clarify tax/duty responsibilities in your PO and ensure compliance documentation is accurate.
What about restricted products?
Certain categories require additional licenses or are prohibited. Review our Acceptable Use and category rules before listing or buying.
Support
How do I contact support?
Email support@yourdomain.com, call +1 (555) 555-5555, or start a live chat in the app during support hours.
What is your support SLA?
We target a first response within one business day for standard tickets. Priority and enterprise plans have faster SLAs.
Do you offer onboarding help?
Yes. We have guided onboarding, templates, and training sessions for teams on paid plans.
Still need help?
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach our support team and we’ll get you sorted.
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