Safety

Most jobs on Flatcart are simple: a Costco run, a delivery, an assembly. These are the habits that keep them that way, for shoppers and helpers alike. In an emergency, call 911. To report a problem with a job or a person, use Report a problem on the job page or email hello@flatcart.ca.

Before the job

• Book and pay through Flatcart when you can: the money is held until the job is done, and there's a record of what was agreed. During our launch, when we introduce you by email, agree the price in writing and ask to see the helper's driver's licence and insurance.
• Check the profile: we check a valid Canadian driver's licence before a helper's profile goes live. Licensed trade and Insured badges appear only after we've seen proof.
• Keep the conversation in the job chat, and never share card details by message. Flatcart will never ask for your password or card number by email or text.

At home

• Clear a path to where the work happens, and put pets in another room.
• If you'd rather not be alone with someone you haven't met, have someone else at home.
• Helpers: if a job is unsafe or different from what was agreed, stop and say so in the chat.

Work that needs a licence

Some jobs must be done by a licensed trade: electrical wiring and moving outlets, gas connections, refrigerant work such as installing a mini split, and connecting a generator to a home. A general helper can carry, unpack and position these items, but not connect them. See our guides to generators and air conditioners.

Heavy and awkward items

Sectionals, appliances, hot tubs and gazebo boxes need two people and a plan for stairs and doorways. Add the two-person option, or ask for it in the chat, rather than having one person struggle.

Vehicles

If a helper drives your car (to a tire appointment, for example), give written permission and check with your insurer that they're covered. Helpers: carry your own licence, and never drive a vehicle you aren't insured for.

If something goes wrong

• Damage or a job not done: report a problem on the job page within 48 hours of the helper marking it complete. We hold the payment while we review it.
• Unsafe or abusive behaviour: leave if you're a helper, ask them to leave if you're the shopper, call 911 if anyone is in danger, then report it to us. We may suspend accounts while we look into serious reports.

See also the terms of use and the helper code of conduct.