Practical safety tips for giving away and collecting free items, from writing a good listing to meeting people safely.

Giving things away is a kind and simple act, but meeting people you do not know calls for a little care. These tips apply whether you are the person giving or the person collecting.

For people giving items away

Write a clear listing. Use a short title, such as “Wooden study table, good condition”. Mention the size, condition and any faults. Honest descriptions save time, because only people who really want the item will contact you.

Take your own photos. Clear, bright photos from a few angles help people decide quickly. Avoid showing house numbers, vehicle plates, documents or family members in the pictures.

Share only the general area. Say “near the market” or the neighbourhood name instead of your full address. Share the exact location only when you have agreed a pickup.

Choose a safe pickup place. For small items, meet in a public place, such as a bus stand, a shop entrance or a busy junction. For large furniture, keep the item near your door, and have someone else at home when the person arrives.

Bring a friend or family member. Especially for evening pickups, do not be alone.

Keep communication on the platform if possible. Use the contact option on your listing first. Move to phone calls only when you are comfortable.

Remove the listing once the item is gone. This stops unnecessary messages and keeps the site useful for everyone.

For people collecting items

Be polite and quick to reply. Someone is doing you a favour, so confirm your interest, give a clear time, and let them know if your plans change.

Be on time. If you cannot come, tell the giver early so they can offer the item to someone else.

Inspect before you take. Check that electrical items are safe, and clean second-hand items properly before using them, especially anything for children.

Never pay a fee or share financial details. Items on GiftAway are free. If someone asks for money, a deposit, a bank detail, an OTP or a card number, do not respond, and report the listing.

Warning signs

• Someone asks you to send money before collecting.
• A person refuses to meet in a public place or insists on strange timings.
• The message is full of urgency and pressure.
• A listing seems to be selling something, not giving it away.

Trust your instincts

If something feels wrong, you can cancel. A free item is never worth putting your safety at risk. Most exchanges go smoothly, and these small habits help keep it that way.