Frequently Asked Questions - Agents
On boarding and Setup
1. How do I register as a port agent on your platform?
To register, create a detailed and informative true vendor profile, highlighting your country, port of business, phone number (preferably Whatsapp), email address, and a government-approved photo ID (e.g., driving license or passport). Then, at very first begin the shop configuration by clicking the "Config" icon at the top of the profile page. Accurately categorize and describe your products/services using clear and concise language that resonates with the seafarers’ community in “add products”/ “add a Cab” icon at top of same profile page.
2. What documents are required for port agent registration?
Once you start the registration process, you will receive a welcome email with further instructions. To ensure smooth and timely verification, please provide all the required documents promptly, including a copy of your driving license or passport, business license, tax registration, and any other relevant certifications.
3. How long does the verification process take?
Your account gets started instantly but the verification process typically takes 5 working days. You will be notified via email if your account is unable to verify.
4. What are the fees and commission charges associated with selling products or offering a cab rides to seafarers on your platform?
It’s a partnership we are fostering to help the seafarer community. Whatever you sell, at whatever price, the entire profit is yours—no commission will be taken. We are completely transparent in terms of fees, with not a single penny charged in hidden costs. However, to maintain and improve the application, we require a small monthly fee or flexible plans for purchasing from us.
Platforms like Google Play charge service fees to developers. These service fees help the platform support investments, deliver a good user experience, and ensure the platform remains safe. Developers may also charge monthly fees to cover the costs of maintaining the app after launch. This includes fixing bugs, applying security patches, verifying compatibility, adding new features, and upgrading to the latest operating systems.
5. How do I set up my port agent profile and product/services listings?
After creating your vendor profile, choose your product/services range and upload items individually through the "Add Products"/“add a cab” section located at the top of your profile page. Ensure your product descriptions are clear and concise. We have various product categories and subcategories available. It's advisable to prepare your inventory and product images in advance in a separate folder for easy uploading, for adding a Cab fill all appropriate details as asked.
6. What are the guidelines for product images and descriptions?
Please upload high-quality images with a white background, preferably taken from your own photos or from reputable product-selling websites. The images should be clear and professional. Product descriptions should be detailed, with accurate inventory updates to avoid stock outs. Regularly update your inventory to ensure smooth order fulfillment. We also allow product variations and direct updates from your vendor dashboard.
7. How do I manage my inventory and pricing?
The products/services you feel can be easily and comfortably purchased and delivered to seafarers, with accurate promises and clear terms between you and the seafarer, are considered part of your inventory. Regarding product pricing, we advise maintaining transparency and honesty in this era of online information and transactions. Selling counterfeit products or engaging in dishonest practices will not only lead to seafarer dissatisfaction and negative reviews, but it will also harm your business in the long run, as well as undermine our shared goal of supporting seafarers and maintaining trust in the app.
8. Can I sell multiple product categories on your platform or multiple cab offers?
Yes, you can sell multiple variants within a single category. For example, within the electronics category, you can upload various mobile models. Similarly, in categories such as clothing, food, drinks, toys, and more. Different cab rides with different routes and plans can be offered.
Order Management
1. How do I manage and fulfill orders?
Once an order is placed, you will receive a notification. You can then process the order and fulfill the shipment through our platform or your preferred logistics partner. When the order is placed or confirmed by a seafarer, you will be notified in the app notification you can also check same in Shipment page. If deemed suitable, you can confirm the order which will in turn confirm seafarer via notification. On the day the ship arrives, you can update the status of the order to "Out for Delivery/ Out for pickup," which will trigger an OTP to the seafarer, confirming the authenticity of the product/services delivery.
Process orders promptly and efficiently, ensuring accurate product selection, quantity, and quality as ordered. If possible, package products securely to withstand the rigors of shipping. Use appropriate packaging materials and labeling to prevent damage and mishandling.
2. How do I track order status and shipping information?
you will be notified in the app notification and you can also check same in Shipment page Providing confirmation from you alerts to customers and share OTP numbers when out from stores, Ensure that reliable shipping carriers are used.
3. How do we handle special requests or customized orders/ cab bookings from seafarers?
Handling special requests or customized orders is at your discretion. If you're unavailable to fulfill a request, you can cancel the order. We recommend that prohibited items as mentioned in agreements and such items not be listed unless you can consistently fulfill these requests. You will always get customers contact no. for further clarification and confirmations.
4. What are the shipping guidelines?
Once you receive an order in your Portameegos app, log into your dashboard to access the shipping label. This label contains all the necessary customer information, including their name, product details, quantity, and ship details like ETA & ETD for shipping.
Now, it's time to package the order. Begin by placing all the ordered items into a box or good carry-bag. Ensure the box is properly lined with package fillers before gently and securely placing the products inside. If you wish to you can add any additional materials, such as stickers, a business card, a thank-you card, or a personalized note, to enhance the unboxing experience and you will get good reviews.
Seal the package securely and attach the shipping label on top of the sealed box.
At Portameegos, we carefully select our suppliers based on their reputation, quality standards, and compliance with international regulations. We implement rigorous quality control measures, including inspections, testing, and feedback from seafarers, to ensure our products meets high-quality standards and exceeds customer satisfaction. Always ensure the safety and integrity of the products during transit.
5. How do I handle returns and refunds?
Since it is very rare for a vessel to return to the same port within a short time, we do not have a return policy. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you communicate diligently with seafarers via email, call or messages, keeping proof of such communications for your records. Make sure to inform them clearly that the products are non-refundable and non-returnable.
Once the product is handed over to the seafarer, they are encouraged to inspect it before making any payment. We have established clear return and refund policies outlined in our terms and conditions, and it is crucial to adhere to them strictly.
If you decide to process returns or refunds, please handle them personally and professionally, understanding that this will be done at your own risk.
6. How do we ensure timely delivery/cab service, especially during peak seasons or port congestion?
Ensure the timely delivery of shipments by implementing robust systems to track ship schedules and monitor current AIS positioning on various vessels tracking websites. Stay in regular communication with seafarers, oversee shipments closely, and expedite processes when necessary.
Experienced agents actively monitor port conditions and adjust delivery schedules proactively to minimize potential delays.
7. How do you track the delivery/cab ride status of items and provide real-time updates to seafarers?
We use real time updating tracking systems via mail and in-app from you that allow seafarers to monitor their shipments through our mobile app or online portal.
8. What is the contingency plan for delays or disruptions in the delivery/cab ride process?
There is no formal contingency plan for delays, but we advise proactive communication with seafarers regarding any unforeseen delays or disruptions will be appreciated.
9. What is the process for handling customer inquiries and complaints?
In case of disputes or chargeback’s, please contact our customer support team immediately. We will assist you in resolving the issue as quickly as possible.
Contact Us:
Email: Support@portameegos.com
Phone: +91 7385597978 (Whatsapp Only)
Payments and Finances
1. How often are payments processed and disbursed?
Payments are processed according to the agreed-upon schedule. Specific details can be discussed with our support team via whatsapp or writing mail to us. Your sales are your profit we do not intend to take any shares in the process, our motto is to get you connected with seafarers and make business smooth.
2. What are the subscriptions payment methods available for vendors/agents?
We offer various payment options, including direct bank transfers and online payment gateways. Port agents can also use PayPal or Stripe to purchase our monthly, quarterly, or annual plans.
3. How can I view my sales reports and analytics?
You can monitor your sales and earnings using the platform's reporting tools. These tools help you track progress and ensure accurate financial records.
4. What are the tax implications for selling on your platform?
Tax implications vary based on your location and local regulations. You are responsible for complying with your local tax rules. We strongly advise against withholding or misrepresenting information to local authorities.
5. How do we handle currency exchange and conversion for international transactions?
We utilize reliable currency exchange services to ensure accurate and fair conversions. All fees and charges are transparently outlined in our terms and conditions. For more detailed information, you can contact our customer support team.
To streamline transactions, we recommend maintaining product pricing and handling cash payments in USD whenever possible. This practice is highly appreciated and helps ensure consistency in financial processes.
Platform Policies and Rules
1. What are the terms of service and code of conduct for vendors?
Refer to our platform's terms of service and adhere to the code of conduct.
2. How do I comply with your platform's policies on product quality and safety?
We carefully select suppliers based on their reputation, quality standards, and compliance with international regulations. Your negative reviews and complaints addressed by seafarers can affect your business and account as well.
3. What are the restrictions on prohibited items and services?
The following items are prohibited for listing on our platform:
- Animals and livestock
- Automobiles and motorized vehicles
- Cannabis products
- Drugs and drug-related items
- Financial or professional services
- Hazardous materials/chemicals
- Human parts
- Mature/ adult content
- Means of payment (stamps, cash, tokens, etc.)
- Drugs, Medicines /Medical devices
- Tickets
- Alcohol/Spirits
- Weapons and ammunition
Always check local laws or platform-specific policies before listing items. When listing items for sale, it is crucial to avoid including any prohibited or restricted items to comply with local laws, platform guidelines, and safety standards. Refer to the prohibited items list mentioned above for common categories of restricted goods.
Always review the relevant local laws and platform-specific policies to ensure full compliance with all regulations when listing items for sale. This helps maintain a safe and legally compliant marketplace for all users, report it immediately so we can protect both your business and the seafarers.
4. How do I report intellectual property infringement or fraudulent activity?
Respect intellectual property rights by avoiding the sale of counterfeit or unauthorized products. This includes counterfeit goods, unauthorized use of trademarks, patents, or copyrights, as well as any misrepresentation of goods.
Fraudulent practices such as fake invoices, mislabeling of products, or scams targeting seafarers must be strictly avoided. These actions harm both your business reputation and the trust of your customers.
If you encounter any intellectual property infringements or fraudulent activities, promptly report them to the relevant authorities and cooperate fully. By doing so, you help protect your business and ensure that seafarers receive safe, legitimate products.
Additional Tips for Successful business
1. Optimize Product Listings :-
Use high-quality images and detailed descriptions to attract customers preferably downloaded with white background or screenshot taken and cropped from internet.
2. Leverage Platform Features:-
Use the platform’s marketing tools to increase visibility and sales. Use recommend button to highlight your best products in categories or any discounted product in showcase rather than putting whole list.
3. Stay Updated:-
Keep up-to-date with platform updates and policy changes.
4. Build Strong Relationships:-
Foster positive relationships with seafarers and platform administrators. your reviews and ratings attract your business.
Technical issues and troubleshooting
1. How do I troubleshoot common technical issues such as uploading, deletion or adding products/services etc?
Although we have designed our application interface to be simple and easy to understand, you may not face any issues. If you encounter any trouble, please allow some time for the app to refresh or update, as it could be due to an updation, glitch, server, or network issue. If the problem persists, try again after some time. Should the issue still remain unresolved, please reach out to our support team with your query. For additional guidance; refer to the "Getting Started" flyers sent to you in our welcome email.
2. How do I report bugs and glitches?
Take a screenshot of any error messages or problems you are facing, or if you made a mistake while setting up your account. Send it to us, and we will do our best to resolve it as soon as possible.