BRANDSTACK FAQ-alack
Frequently Asked Questions
Back in the day, a FAQ used to be something great. It was the authority on information. It was how you learned fatalities for Mortal Kombat II before anyone else. It was how you found out who your real dad was. We’re bringing back the FAQ.
Rather than reading the entire FAQ novel, here are some handy shortcuts:
Brandstack Rookies -- newbie info
Exclusive Rights -- buying logos and domains
Final Sales -- selling logos and domains
My Account -- managing and changing your stuff
Payments -- how you pay and get paid
BRANDSTACK ROOKIES (aka: Newbies/Uninitiated/Late bloomers)
Q: What exactly is Brandstack? [+]
A: Brandstack is the world’s largest brand marketplace, didn’t cha know? Well, of course you didn’t know if you asked that question. We specialize in offering quality branding solutions including logos, print and website designs, and domains. These branding elements are created by some of the best and brightest in a talented and attentive designer community we host right here on Brandstack. It’s a dream come true for both buyers and sellers of brand identities; provided the dream is related to what you should be dreaming about (brands) and not naked people.
Q: Where can I see the items I have sold or bought on Brandstack? [+]
A: In your Transaction History. It’s like a history book about you and us only you won’t fall asleep reading it at 2AM the night before finals because you forgot to study.
Q: Can I change my Username or Password? [+]
A: Once you picked a username on Brandstack it's yours forever! Actually, if you want to change your username, just shoot us an email at ... we'll take care of you. For everything else, log in and go to My Account. On this page you are able to edit your profile, including password, avatar, and contact information. You can practically get all Bourne with your identity.
Q: Why aren't there standard prices for brands? [+]
A: All of the items listed on Brandstack are created and sold by our members, who determine their own prices. This is the best pricing model for everyone involved. Potential buyers can find great deals and designers can hope to make something off work they were expecting to get nothing.
Q: Can I leave feedback about a designer or their work? [+]
A: Yes, please do. Rather than guessing how a brand will be perceived by the marketplace, your feedback will help buyers see how others view a brand allowing them to make a more educated purchase. And knowing is half the battle.
Q: What is a Spring? [+]
A: A Spring is not a season or a coil or an action. It is our voting system. When someone likes your portfolio or your uploads they can Spring it. Items that receive more Springs will receive more exposure, for example in the Most Sprung list.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS
What does exclusive rights mean?
It means that if you buy a logo or domain from Brandstack, it is yours outright. You own it forever and ever. Nobody else will own it or be able to buy that same brand. It's like if you buy a candy bar. It's yours and you eat it. Not that other guy that isn't you that didn't buy it. I'm making this too complicated, aren't I?
Buying Logos on Brandstack
Q: When I buy a brand logo, will anyone else be able to buy it again? [+]
A: No. Again, this falls under our exclusive rights category. All designs and domains listed for sale on Brandstack are original and exclusive to the buyer.
Q: Can I request changes from the original designer? [+]
A: Glad you asked. We pride ourselves on having a community of designers who would be more than happy to make slight alterations to their designs to please a potential buyer. Such alterations are subject to the designer’s will of course. We can't force them to do it for you, however. You can send a message by visiting a user's profile page or by clicking the "Send a Message" link on the design page to try and work things out one-on-one.
Q: How will I receive the logo files once I buy the brand? [+]
A: Once your transaction is complete, you will be sent to the page where your files are stored. You can download them at that point or later by viewing your Transaction History.
Q: Why can't I open my design files in Microsoft Word? [+]
A: The design files we provide don’t include a format for Microsoft Word. They are design files so the formats we provide are predominantly for design programs like the Adobe Suite. If you really really really really really need your files in a Word document, contact the designer and they will probably be willing to work with you on getting that for you. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us.
Q: I found a brand I like, but the price is too high. Can I Make an Offer? [+]
A: Yes. Let’s make a deal! Just click "Make an Offer" on the details page. Enter your price and an optional message to the seller. If the seller agrees, they will revise the price and let you know when you can purchase the design or domain.
Q: Should I worry if a designer asks me to pay them outside of Brandstack? [+]
A: Whoa. That’s a bit shady. Don’t get mixed up in something like that. Brandstack is built to provide you, the buyer, with the safeguards necessary to conduct a secure transaction. By using Brandstack your payments are secure, your information is kept private and you will receive your files immediately after the purchase. If you attempt to make the purchase elsewhere, you are at risk.
Buying Domains on Brandstack
Q: What is a domain? Where am I? [+]
A: A domain is simply the address of a website. You are at Brandstack. We sell domains. What a coincidence! A domain secures your identity and the ease of access on the internet for your clients/users/visitors. A good domain is a good start to taking over the world.
Q: Why should I buy a domain from Brandstack? [+]
A: For one thing, we’re nice people. Additionally, we offer domains at a reasonable price and also as part of a ready-to-go identity package with a logo. These are the essential building blocks for starting a new company or re-branding an existing one. Why not buy them together at a competitive price?
Q: How do I add a domain to my Account? [+]
A: You can add a domain to your account through your Manage Domains page. There are three ways to add a domain: 1. Buying a domain through Brandstack, 2. Transferring a domain to Brandstack, or 3. Uploading a domain from another registrar.
Q: What rights of ownership do I have if I buy my domain through Brandstack? [+]
A: Domains fall under the same category as logos. You will exclusively own the rights to your domain and no one else will have it. You can totally brag about that if you want.
Q: What does it mean when a domain is "Verified"? [+]
A: "Verified" domains are hosted by Brandstack. These were originally purchased through Brandstack or transferred to Brandstack from another registrar. Verified domains are automatically transferred to the buyer's account when purchased.
Q: I requested a domain transfer and the transfer was declined, do I get a refund? [+]
A: Yes. If your transfer fails, you will be reimbursed with no questions asked. No fuss. No muss. Please contact us when this occurs to expedite the refund.
Q: I just bought my domaim, can I transfer it to Brandstack or to another registrar? [+]
A: If you bought or transferred the domain within the past 60 days, you will not be able to move it. ICANN & Registry regulations prohibit the transfer of domain names that have been registered or previously transferred within the last 60 Days. Please wait for 60 days from the date of registration or previous transfer before applying for a transfer of such domain names.
Q: I just bought my domain from Brandstack, can I sell it right away? [+]
A: Yes, as long as you are not transferring it to another registrar. Keep in mind there is a four (4) day waiting period, after you buy the domain, where you cannot change ownership of the domain. Just eat a sandwich and before you know it, the wait will be over.
Q: How long does it take to transfer a domain from seller to buyer? [+]
A: It depends on where the domain is hosted. If the domain is "Verified" the transfer will be initiated as soon as you complete the purchase. The transfer will be completed within 2-3 business days. If you are buying a domain that is not "Verified" the transfer time will vary. In this situation, you will coordinate the transfer with the seller.
Q: Do I get an extension on my domain if I transfer it to Brandstack? [+]
A: Yes. 1 year will be added to your current expiration date. It’s like adding a year to your life. We’ve found the fountain of youth!
General Selling Guidelines on Brandstack
Q: How will I be paid the money I have earned from my sale? [+]
A: Payments can be received by PayPal or check. To receive payment through PayPal, you must enter the details of your PayPal account in your Account settings.
Q: Is there another way to get paid if I don't have a PayPal account? [+]
A: Yes. Brandstack can mail a check to you to the address listed in your profile. This method will take a little longer, however.
Q: How long will it take to receive my money after I have made a sale? [+]
A: If you are receiving payments through PayPal, you should expect to see the revenue in 7-10 business days. If you are not using PayPal, you should receive a check in the mail within 3-4 weeks. Checks are processed and mailed once per week.
Q: If I am a designer (seller), will any design I upload be automatically accepted? [+]
A: No. All designs uploaded will be review by administrators prior to being accepted. We will be checking design quality, brand originality and source files. If a design or domain is rejected, you will receive an email providing the reason.
Q: If I had a design rejected, what does that mean? [+]
A: Designs can be rejected for several reasons including poor quality, nudity, vulgar language, mature content, user complaints or low ratings. If your design is not approved within 72 hours, feel free to contact us for additional information.
Q: Once I sell a design, will it still show in my portfolio? [+]
A: Yes. Your portfolio will show all of the designs and domains you are currently selling and have previously sold. You also have the option of uploading designs you do not want to sell, so go ahead and show off your work.
Q: Is there a way to make my brand more noticeable? [+]
A: Of course. You can upgrade your brand to Featured status. A Featured brand is highlighted and moved to the top of each relevant search. Find out more information when you upload a brand for sale.
Q: Does it cost anything to list designs or domains for sale? [+]
A: No. Listing on Brandstack is completely free.
FINAL SALES
What are final sales?
Final sales mean exactly what they sound like. Once you sell off your design, you no longer own intellectual property rights to that design. It’s so haaaaaaard to say goodbyyyyyyye to yesterdaaaaaayEEEEEEE.
Selling Logos on Brandstack
Q: What are the main requirements to have my logos approved? [+]
A: Here is an exact breakdown of the approval process and common missteps:
STEP 01 Tech Specs:
• No Logo Templates (ex. [Your Company Name here])
• Single Brand Name (ex. Do not put: Fire, Hot Flame, Red Hot, etc.)
• Full Description (Describe what your Brand can be used for, how you envision it, concept, etc.)
• One Logo Including Typography (At least one of your variations should have its brand name type with it)
• Vector, fully editable file (99.5% of the time, unless photography-style logo)
Once step 01 has been met, then we look at:
STEP 02 What We Look For:
• Concept
• Creativity
• Typography
• Execution
• Presentation
These are the top 5 areas in which we are evaluating Brands. They have to meet a majority of these areas for your Brand to be added at this time.
Now that you've been approved we recommend self-promotion:(If you have not been approved ask for critiques & you still may get your Brand approved.)
STEP 03 Self Promotion:
• Use Twitter and any other social media sites to promote yourself.
• Other logo-inspired sites, we recommend that you link back to your Brandstack logo directly, as a potential buyer may see it.
• Join in, mix and mingle within the Brandstack community, remain positive and you'll see more members giving you great advice on anything you may need.
• No Logo Templates (ex. [Your Company Name here])
• Single Brand Name (ex. Do not put: Fire, Hot Flame, Red Hot, etc.)
• Full Description (Describe what your Brand can be used for, how you envision it, concept, etc.)
• One Logo Including Typography (At least one of your variations should have its brand name type with it)
• Vector, fully editable file (99.5% of the time, unless photography-style logo)
Once step 01 has been met, then we look at:
STEP 02 What We Look For:
• Concept
• Creativity
• Typography
• Execution
• Presentation
These are the top 5 areas in which we are evaluating Brands. They have to meet a majority of these areas for your Brand to be added at this time.
Now that you've been approved we recommend self-promotion:(If you have not been approved ask for critiques & you still may get your Brand approved.)
STEP 03 Self Promotion:
• Use Twitter and any other social media sites to promote yourself.
• Other logo-inspired sites, we recommend that you link back to your Brandstack logo directly, as a potential buyer may see it.
• Join in, mix and mingle within the Brandstack community, remain positive and you'll see more members giving you great advice on anything you may need.
Q: What source file types can I upload with my logo? [+]
A: To complete your upload, an editable vector file (*.ai or *.eps) is required. You should provide all of the files you would normally provide to a client. The site accepts *.AI, *.EPS, *.PSD, *.CDR, *.PDF, *.TIFF, *.PNG, *.JPEG, *.GIF, *.WMF, and *.BMP.
Q: What file and size will the site accept for my logo's display image? [+]
A: JPEG or PNG files, sized at 325 x 260 pixels, 72 dpi.
Q: Does Brandstack charge a commission when a sale is complete? [+]
A: Yes. Brandstack charges a commission of 15% upon the completion of each sale. The commission is automatically deducted from your sale proceeds.
Q: Why can't I include font files? [+]
A: Unless you are the original creator of the font in your logo, you are more than likely violating the original developers ownership rights. Most buyers will not have the software or ability to revise the font shown in your logo, which is why buyers are asked to contact the brand seller for any revisions.
Q: Why is my brand suspended as soon as I upload it? [+]
A: All brands are automatically suspended when they are uploaded to allow Brandstack administrators time to review them. Brands are reviewed for quality, content and proper source files before being added to the site.
Q: Why was my brand denied for incorrect source file? [+]
A: All logos must include an original vector file for approval. Even if your source files were accepted during the upload process, they will be reviewed by an administrator. Vector files must have been originally developed using software such as Illustrator, Corel Draw or Freehand to be in the correct format. Proper conversion from raster to vector is not possible without manually recreating the designs.
Q: I design my logos in Photoshop, will they be approved? [+]
A: Probably not. All logos must include an original vector file for approval. Vector files must have been originally developed using software such as Illustrator, Corel Draw or Freehand to be in the correct format. Proper conversion from PSD (raster) to vector is not possible without manually recreating the designs.
Q: How do I get my brand to show on the home page? [+]
A: Upload an outstanding brand! Brands displayed on the home page are chosen by Brandstack administrators because of their quality, originality, and value to potential buyers.
Q: I edited my brand and now it's not showing for sale. What happened? [+]
A: When you edit your brand, you must complete all three steps until you are returned to your Manage Brands page. Your brand is taken off of the main sale pages to avoid any confusion with your brand while your are making changes.
Q: I received a "Make an Offer" message from a buyer, what do I do now? [+]
A: If you accept the offer, edit your brand's price in you Manage Brands section and let the buyer know the price has been revised.
Selling Domains on Brandstack
Q: How do I add a domain to my brand for sale? [+]
A: Once you have added the domain to your account, first choose 'Edit' in your Manage Brands section. On Step 1, select your domain from the drop down. Make sure to complete all 3 steps until you return to the Manage Brands page.
Q: Can I sell a domain from another registrar? [+]
A: Yes. Just Upload it to your Account. Keep in mind, when the domain sells you are responsible for coordinating the transfer with the buyer. All funds from your sale will be held in escrow until the domain has transferred.
Q: Am I responsible for transferring verified domains to my buyer? [+]
A: It is not necessary for sellers to coordinate the transfer of a Verified domain.
Q: How do I transfer a domain to Brandstack? [+]
A: First, get your "Secret" code (also known as "Transfer Authorization" or "EPP Authorization" code) from your current registrar. Then complete the transfer form here. There are a few reasons why your domain might not be eligible for transfer, read them at the below the domain transfer form.
My Account
Q: What can I do in My Account? [+]
A: You're My Account page will allow you to manage any preferences or information on Brandstack. Think of it as your profile settings and customization page.
Q: How do I change my account's email address? [+]
A: Log in to your account and go the My Account page. Here you will be able to change your email address, password and contact information.
Q: What do I do if I forgot my password? [+]
A: If you are not logged in, you will see a link that says "Forgot Password" at the top of the page. Click that link and type in your email address. A temporary password will be emailed to the address on file. Also, check out this Penny-Arcade comic while you’re at it so you can laugh about the whole thing: Apropos Penny-Arcade
(We’re in no way affiliated with PA, but if they want to be affiliated with us, we’re down.)
(We’re in no way affiliated with PA, but if they want to be affiliated with us, we’re down.)
Q: How do I add items to My Favorites? [+]
A: Easy. Just click on the red heart below each design, domain, user or directory listing to add it to your Favorites. Favorites will allow you to store brands for viewing later.
Q: Where do my Springs come from? [+]
A: They come from a very magical place: Brandstack users. Registered users have the ability to Spring (or vote) other users. On your profile page you will be able to see how many Springs you received for your profile, your designs, and your domains.
Q: How can I opt-in or opt-out of automatic notifications? [+]
A: When logged in, subscribe or unsubscribe to any notices in your Manage Notifications section. We won’t spam you unless you want us to.
Q: Why was my account suspended? [+]
A: An account can be suspended for:
1. Serious violations of Brandstack's Terms of Use.
2. Repeated user complaints related to not fulfilling buyer of seller obligations (such as nonpayment and transfer of brand ownership.)
3. Killing a man.
1. Serious violations of Brandstack's Terms of Use.
2. Repeated user complaints related to not fulfilling buyer of seller obligations (such as nonpayment and transfer of brand ownership.)
3. Killing a man.
Payments
Q: Will my purchase be secure? [+]
A: What are you trying to say? I guess you are the one asking the questions here so the answer is yes. All payment information is encrypted and payments are processed through a secure SSL certificate. Processing is handled through Authorize.net or PayPal, depending on the payment processing you chose.
Q: What payment methods can I use? [+]
A: You can securely make any payments through Credit Card or PayPal. If you try to pay us in clam shells, that just won’t work.
Q: How do I know what files I am buying with my brand? [+]
A: When you are viewing the design details, you will see icons showing the source files you will be purchasing. When you complete the purchase, the site will automatically prompt you to download all files listed. Easy greezy.
Q: Can I download my purchased files later? [+]
A: Yes. You can download your source files at anytime by viewing your Transaction History in the My Account section.
Q: Can I get a refund if I change my mind about my logo, print or web design purchase? [+]
A: Unfortunately, we are dealing with intangible electronic properties here and can’t offer a refund once your purchase has been downloaded.
Q: I have a question about my billing. [+]
A: That’s a statement, not a question, but we’ll be happy to deal with your concern if you contact us at help@brandstack.com.
Q: I just sold something on this incredible site! Now how do I get paid? [+]
A: If you have a PayPal account listed, you will see the magical cash in 7-10 business days. Otherwise, we'll mail you a check.
Q: I don't have PayPal and do not want to wait for a check. Is there any other way I can receive payments?