Frequently Asked Questions
Link Food Locally is a platform designed to connect local buyers with local suppliers based on ZIP code and available goods. It is encouraged that you handle most of your communication and advertising via email or phone once a buyer reaches out in response to your listing.
Can anyone be a supplier?
Yes, anyone can be a supplier! Whether you’re a local business looking to expand your reach or a homesteader with extra goats from this year’s breeding season, Link Food Locally helps you connect with the right people. Have surplus produce from your harvest? Or perhaps an apple tree in your yard? Post your apples on Link Food Locally!
Is there a fee to use Link Food Locally?
No, Link Food Locally is completely free for both suppliers and buyers. I believe in fostering a community that connects consumers with local food producers without financial barriers. You can create listings, browse products, and engage with other users at no cost.
What can I do if I don’t see any goods that I want in my community?
You can do a few things. You can try looking to see if a nearby community has what you need or You can fill out the Goods Wanted Form. The link can be found on the “Search for Goods” page below the search form.
Can I post listings for meat products?
While I appreciate the diversity of local offerings, please ensure that all listings comply with local laws and regulations regarding food sales. I encourage you to share your farm-fresh goods while being mindful of any requirements related to meat products. By posting, you acknowledge that you are solely responsible for the legality and safety of your listings. Thank you for helping me maintain a safe and legal marketplace for our community!
Should I include prices with my goods?
No, this platform is designed to connect buyers and suppliers but is not intended for listing prices of goods. Pricing discussions should be handled privately between the parties involved.
How can I ensure the food I purchase is safe for consumption?
When buying from sources that haven’t been vetted, there’s always some level of risk involved (just as there can be with grocery store purchases). Trust your instincts and ask questions like, “Do you use pesticides or herbicides on your products?” If anything raises red flags or the product doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to voice your concerns and choose not to buy.
How can I delete my post once I’ve sold all my goods?
Post removals are processed manually by the administrator. To have your post deleted, please complete the “Get in Touch” form on the Home page, clearly indicating which post you want to remove.
How does Link Food Locally protect user privacy?
At Link Food Locally, I prioritize your privacy. I utilize Wordfence, a robust security plugin, to safeguard your information and protect against unauthorized access. Additionally, I recommend that users communicate sensitive information, such as personal contact details, through secure channels like email rather than through public listings. Always exercise caution when sharing personal information online.
Can I sell non-food items through Link Food Locally?
Link Food Locally is primarily focused on connecting consumers with local food producers. Therefore, I encourage listings that pertain to food products, including fresh produce, animal feed, and livestock. While I aim to maintain a food-centric marketplace, exceptions may be made for related goods, such as spices and food-related seeds. In addition, it is permissible to advertise trees and plants provided they align with our mission to support local food systems. Please reach out if you have specific items in mind!
What if I encounter an issue with a supplier or buyer?
If you encounter an issue with a supplier or buyer, I recommend resolving it directly between the parties involved. While I strive to create a positive environment, personal interactions are ultimately managed by the users themselves. If you have any general questions or concerns about the platform, feel free to reach out to me via the “Get in Touch” form on the home page.
How do I edit my listing if I need to make changes?
All changes must be done manually; therefore, it is recommended that you edit your listing by creating an entirely new listing. Once you’ve finished with the new listing, scroll further down on the home page and fill out the “Get in Touch” form. Clearly indicate which listing needs to be deleted by providing the full contact name as it appears in the original listing.
Can I promote my business on Link Food Locally?
Yes, you can promote your business on Link Food Locally by creating engaging listings that highlight your products and services. While I don’t currently offer formal advertising options, effective listings and active participation in the community can enhance your visibility and attract potential customers.
What should I do if a supplier doesn’t respond to my inquiry?
If a supplier doesn’t respond to your inquiry, I recommend following up with them. Sometimes messages can be overlooked, and a polite reminder can help. If you still encounter difficulties, please fill out the “Get in Touch” form, providing the supplier’s details so the administrator can assist. Additionally, consider reaching out to alternative suppliers listed on the platform.
Are there any guidelines for listing items?
It is advisable to keep your listing short and simple. For example: If you are a grain supplier, check the appropriate boxes and clearly and concisely list the grain you have available. Feel free to include a link to your website if applicable.
Or, if you simply have 3 bushels of apples from this year’s harvest, you can list those using straightforward language. For example: “I have 3 bushels of Granny Smith apples from my backyard tree.”
How do I know if my listing is active?
Once you post your supplier listing, refresh the home page, scroll down to the buyers section, and enter the zip code associated with your listing. If your listing doesn’t appear, try clearing your browser’s cache and checking again. If it still doesn’t display, please contact me as soon as possible using the “Get in Touch” form on the home page.
Can I share my listing on social media?
Absolutely! I encourage you to share your listings on social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Promoting your products through social media can help connect with potential buyers and grow your customer base.
What should I do if I have a question that isn’t listed here?
Good question! Go to the home page, scroll down to view the “Get in Touch” form and submit your questions. Please note that all questions are answered manually by the administrator, and response times may take a few hours.