1. About HorseStox
HorseStox is an online marketplace connecting buyers and sellers of sport horses. We are operated by HorseStox, Amsterdam, Netherlands. By using HorseStox, you agree to these Terms of Service.
2. The marketplace
HorseStox provides a platform for buyers and sellers to connect. We are not a party to any transaction between buyers and sellers. We do not own, buy, sell, or inspect any horses listed on the platform unless explicitly stated.
All transactions are between the buyer and seller directly. HorseStox facilitates the connection and charges a success fee to sellers only.
3. Account registration
You must create an account to place bids, order Field Reports, or list horses. You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account. You must provide accurate information and keep it updated.
You must be at least 18 years old to use HorseStox. By registering, you confirm that you are 18 or older.
4. For sellers — listing rules
By listing a horse on HorseStox, you confirm that:
• You are the legal owner of the horse or have authority to sell it
• All information provided is accurate and not misleading
• The horse is not subject to any undisclosed liens, loans, or legal disputes
• Photos and videos represent the current condition of the horse
• You will cooperate with any HorseStox inspector during a Field Report visit
False or misleading listings will result in immediate removal and account suspension.
5. Success fee
Sellers pay a success fee of 3.5% of the final sale price upon completion of a sale. Founding Partners pay 2.5% for their first 12 months. The fee is payable within 14 days of the sale completing.
No fee is charged if the horse does not sell. Buyers pay no platform fee.
6. HorseStox Hold™
The Hold™ product allows buyers to reserve a horse exclusively for a fixed period (5, 10, or 21 days). During a paid Hold:
• The listing is removed from public search
• No other buyer may place a bid
• The seller may not accept offers from other buyers
The Hold fee is non-refundable once payment is confirmed. If the Hold expires without a purchase, the listing returns to the marketplace automatically.
HorseStox is not responsible if a sale does not complete after a Hold is placed.
7. Private bidding
All bids on HorseStox are private and sealed. Buyers cannot see other buyers' bids. The bid process allows up to 5 rounds of negotiation between buyer and seller. Bids are non-binding offers — a purchase is only complete when both parties sign a formal sale agreement.
8. Field Reports
Field Reports are conducted by independent HorseStox-certified inspectors. Reports are factual observations and do not constitute veterinary advice or a warranty of the horse's condition.
Buyers are strongly advised to commission an independent veterinary pre-purchase examination in addition to a Field Report before completing a purchase.
9. Prohibited conduct
The following are strictly prohibited on HorseStox:
• Providing false information in listings or bids
• Attempting to circumvent the platform to avoid the success fee
• Harassment of other users
• Listing horses you do not own or have authority to sell
• Manipulating the Trust Score through false verifications
• Using the platform for any illegal purpose
10. Limitation of liability
HorseStox provides the platform on an "as is" basis. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any listing, the completion of any transaction, or the condition of any horse.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, HorseStox is not liable for any loss or damage arising from your use of the platform, including any transaction between buyers and sellers.
11. Intellectual property
All content on horsestox.com — including the design, logo, Trust Score system, and HorseStox Hold™ brand — is owned by HorseStox and may not be reproduced without permission.
By listing content on HorseStox, sellers grant us a licence to display their photos and listing information on the platform.
12. Governing law
These Terms are governed by the laws of the Netherlands. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Amsterdam.
13. Changes to these Terms
We may update these Terms from time to time. Continued use of HorseStox after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms. We will notify registered users of material changes by email.
14. Contact
For questions about these Terms: legal@horsestox.com