Good questions, short answers.
Getting started
What is Tukalos?
A local marketplace for right now. Post what you need, and people nearby who have it get a ping. Or tell Tukalos what you have, and get pinged when someone nearby needs it.
Where does it work?
Tukalos is starting in Scarborough, around Markham Rd and Ellesmere Rd. More neighbourhoods come next. If you’re somewhere else, join the waitlist on the home page.
Do I need to download an app?
No. Tukalos opens in your phone’s browser at app.tukalos.com. You can add it to your home screen so it opens like an app.
Does it cost anything to join?
No. Joining and posting are free. There’s only a small service fee when you buy something.
Paying
How does Tukalos Protected Pay work?
When you pay, the money is held, not sent. It’s released to the other person only when you press and hold “I got it” at the handoff.
What are the fees?
Buyers pay a 5% service fee, at least 50¢. A $10 item costs $10.50. Sellers pay 5% from their payout, or 8% for business accounts. Free items have no fees.
What if the handoff doesn’t happen?
Cancel the match before you confirm, and the hold is released, so you’re not charged. A hold also ends on its own after about 7 days.
Is my card safe?
Card details go straight to Stripe, our payment partner. Tukalos never sees your full card number.
During the Scarborough pilot, paid items use test payments, so no real money moves yet.
Safety
Who can see where I live?
Nobody. Posts show only a general area. Your exact meeting spot is shared only with the person you match with.
Where should we meet?
Somewhere public, busy and well lit. Tukalos suggests spots nearby, like your building lobby or a plaza entrance.
How do I report or block someone?
Open their profile or the chat and tap Report or block. Blocking works right away, and reports go to the Tukalos team.
Can I share food?
Yes, everyday groceries: sealed packaged food, eggs in their store carton, whole fruits and vegetables (garden ones too), and pantry basics like sugar, rice or flour, even a cup in a clean container.
Home-cooked or prepared meals aren’t allowed.
What can’t be posted?
Anything unsafe or illegal, including weapons, medications (even over-the-counter), alcohol, cannabis and tobacco. See the full list in our Terms.
Selling and shops
Can I give things away for free?
Yes. Choose Free when you post. Free items skip payment entirely.
How do I get paid?
Set up payouts once in your Profile under Get paid. After each handoff, your money goes to your bank through Stripe.
What’s a business account?
A profile for a local shop, with your address, opening hours and an Open now label. Business accounts pay 8% when they sell.
What is a Founding shop?
One of the first shops near Markham & Ellesmere. Founding shops pay no seller fee for their first 3 months. See For shops.