Project Overview
A student-centric peer-to-peer marketplace and rental ecosystem crafted specifically for university campuses across the United Kingdom, facilitating textbooks, electronics, furniture, and student meal deal trades.
Key Challenges & Objectives
University students frequently fall victim to scams on unverified classifieds. The platform required verified university domain authentication (.ac.uk), integrated campus courier and parcel drop-off logistics via EasyShipping, and an escrow payment mechanism to ensure buyer protection before item release.
Architecture & Implementation
Architected as a Next.js full-stack platform backed by Node.js microservices. Integrated EasyShipping APIs for automated shipping label creation and live tracking, Stripe Connect for marketplace escrow splits, and high-speed search indexing for instant campus-radius filtering.
Core Features & Deliverables
- University Student Verification: Mandatory campus email validation protecting buyers and sellers from unauthorized third parties.
- Integrated Shipping & Local Meetup: Seamless parcel label generation via EasyShipping API or verified safe campus handoff coordination.
- In-App Negotiation: Real-time messaging with instant counter-offer functionality and reserve-price triggers.
- Student Perks & Meal Deals: Exclusive partnered local business deals, restaurant discounts, and seasonal student promotional bundles.
Business Impact & Results
Onboarded thousands of verified UK university students in its inaugural academic term, drove over £150,000 in student gear circulation, and reduced average item turnaround time to under 48 hours.
