Fair Trading Minister warns of dodgy car boot traders near Beenleigh
Posted by editor (editor) on Nov 26 2009
2009 >>

Fair Trading is warning consumers to be careful about who they buy from, following a report of a ‘car boot trader’ peddling high-tech wares at a service station near Beenleigh.

Fair Trading Minister Peter Lawlor said two men had been spotted selling stereo systems from the back of a white van with Victorian number plates at the BP in Stapylton.

“The OFT has a clear message to consumers: be wary of purchasing from this type of seller because more often than not their products are overpriced and not up to scratch,” Mr Lawlor said.

“It’s not until after they get home that buyers find out their new stereo or equipment is shoddy or doesn’t live up to what was promised.

“By this time the seller’s hit the road with your cash in their pocket.”

Mr Lawlor said such traders often operated in service stations or shopping centre car parks and approached people directly to promote their products.

“You don’t know what you’re getting with car boot transactions. The goods may be stolen, damaged or broken.”

He said the buyer had no way to get a refund, exchange the item or have it fixed if the product was faulty and was sold without a bona fide warranty or receipt.

“These sellers can be smooth operators and many in the past have been ripped off by dodgy dealings.”

Mr Lawlor said to think twice about traders who did not have an established business address or who only gave a post office box or suite number.

“Also be cautious of those who can’t or won’t provide ID or contact details, or only an email address or mobile phone number,” he said.

“Those who operate out of rental vehicles or vehicles registered in another state may also be dubious.”

The Fair Trading Act’s door-to-door trading provisions include “car boot” sales.
Therefore, the sale of any goods or service of more than $75 must come with a 10 day cooling off period and payment is not required until after then.

Buyers should get two forms – one explaining the cooling off period and one which can be used to cancel the contract if so desired.

Breaking the law can incur a fine of up to $54,000 for individuals and $270,000 for businesses.

Mr Lawlor said people who suspected car boot items might be stolen should make notes about the trader or vehicle and contact their local police.

Report any scams or suspicious offers to the Office of Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or call 13 13 04.

Last changed: Nov 26 2009 at 11:53 AM