Section 01
Acceptance of Terms
By scheduling a pickup, submitting a booking request, making a payment, or using any service provided by Guldstreet Shipping ("Guldstreet," "we," "us," or "our"), you ("Customer," "you") agree to be legally bound by these Terms of Service in full.
If you do not agree with any part of these terms, do not use our services. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any updated terms, which we may revise at any time with notice posted on this page.
Section 02
Scope of Services
Guldstreet Shipping provides door-to-door freight forwarding and shipping services including, but not limited to:
- Barrel shipping (clothing, food, household goods) from New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia to Ghana, Togo, and Ivory Coast
- Vehicle shipping (cars, trucks, SUVs) to Ghana
- Door-to-door personal effects shipping
- Shop & Ship (purchase facilitation and forwarding)
- Auction vehicle acquisition and export
We operate out of New York, NY. Pickup service covers the NYC metro area including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island, Newark NJ, Jersey City NJ, and Philadelphia PA.
Section 03
Quotes & Pricing
All published rates are starting prices and may be adjusted based on actual dimensions, weight, and destination. A binding quote is issued in writing (email or WhatsApp) prior to pickup confirmation.
| Service | Starting Rate | Destination |
|---|---|---|
| 55-gallon barrel | $190 | Ghana |
| 65-gallon barrel | $240 | Ghana |
| 55-gallon barrel | $210 | Togo / Ivory Coast |
| Large box (3.5 cu ft) | $65 | Ghana |
| Vehicle shipping | $1,200 | Ghana |
Rates are subject to change. The rate confirmed in writing at the time of booking is the rate that applies to that shipment.
Section 04
Booking Deposits
A non-refundable booking deposit of 30% of the total quoted amount is required to confirm a pickup. Pickup scheduling will not be finalized until the deposit is received and cleared.
Important: Submission of a pickup request does not guarantee a confirmed booking. Your booking is only confirmed once the deposit is received and you receive a written confirmation from Guldstreet.
Deposits may be paid via Zelle, Cash App, or PayPal. Cash payments are not accepted for deposits or outstanding balances.
Section 05
Payment Terms
The full remaining balance is due within 3 business days of invoice date. Failure to pay within this window may result in:
- Suspension of shipment processing
- Cargo being placed in storage at the Customer's expense (see Section 7)
- A lien placed on stored goods
- Referral to collections or small claims court
Guldstreet accepts payment via Zelle, Cash App, and PayPal. We do not accept cash payments for outstanding invoices. Requests to pay in cash after a balance has been invoiced will be declined.
All amounts are in U.S. dollars (USD). Customers are responsible for any transaction fees charged by their payment provider.
Section 06
Cancellation & Pickup Fees
The following fees apply regardless of deposit status:
| Scenario | Fee |
|---|---|
| Customer cancels before dispatch (more than 24 hours' notice) | Deposit forfeited; no additional fee |
| Customer cancels after driver is dispatched | $150 minimum pickup/return fee |
| No-show or refusal of pickup at scheduled address | $150 minimum pickup/return fee |
| Customer changes pickup address after dispatch | Additional mileage charges may apply |
Note: The $150 pickup/return fee is a minimum. Actual costs may be higher depending on distance, time, and resources deployed. This fee is owed regardless of whether a deposit has been paid and is invoiced separately if not covered by a prior deposit.
Free pickup is only available on completed, paid shipments. It does not apply to cancelled orders.
Section 07
Storage Fees
Cargo that has been received by Guldstreet but cannot be processed due to outstanding payment, missing documentation, or Customer-requested hold is subject to storage fees.
| Storage Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Per item/day (barrels, boxes, totes, suitcases) | $10.00 per item per day |
| Vehicles | $25.00 per vehicle per day |
Storage fees begin accruing on the first business day after the payment due date or the date cargo is received and a hold is placed, whichever is earlier. Fees accrue daily including weekends and holidays.
Guldstreet reserves the right to place a lien on stored cargo for unpaid storage and shipping fees under applicable New York State law. Cargo may be liquidated to recover outstanding charges after 30 days of accrued unpaid storage.
Section 08
Prohibited Items
The following items are strictly prohibited from all Guldstreet shipments:
- Firearms, ammunition, explosives, or weapons of any kind
- Narcotics, controlled substances, or illegal drugs
- Flammable liquids, gases, or hazardous materials (HAZMAT)
- Perishable food items without prior written approval
- Live animals or plants
- Currency, negotiable instruments, or bearer bonds
- Counterfeit goods or items that infringe on intellectual property rights
- Any item prohibited by U.S. export law or Ghana Customs regulations
Customers are solely responsible for ensuring their shipment complies with all applicable U.S. export laws and destination country import laws. Guldstreet is not liable for delays, seizures, or fines resulting from prohibited or undeclared items.
If prohibited items are discovered, the Customer will be billed for all resulting costs including return shipping, storage, legal fees, and any government penalties assessed against Guldstreet.
Section 09
Liability & Insurance
Guldstreet's liability for lost or damaged cargo is limited to the lesser of:
- The actual cash value of the damaged or lost item, or
- $100 per barrel / $50 per box, unless additional declared value coverage is purchased in writing prior to shipment
Guldstreet is not liable for:
- Delays caused by weather, port congestion, customs clearance, or acts of government
- Loss or damage to fragile items not properly packed by the Customer
- Theft from unlocked barrels or improperly secured cargo
- Consequential, indirect, or punitive damages of any kind
Customers are strongly encouraged to purchase third-party cargo insurance for high-value shipments. Guldstreet can provide referrals to cargo insurance providers upon request.
Section 10
Disputes & Governing Law
These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflict of law provisions.
Any dispute arising from or relating to these Terms or our services shall first be submitted to good-faith negotiation. If unresolved within 30 days, either party may pursue claims in New York City Civil Court or Small Claims Court, as applicable based on the amount in dispute.
By accepting these Terms, the Customer waives any right to a jury trial and agrees that any legal action must be brought in New York County (Manhattan), New York.
In any proceeding in which Guldstreet prevails, the Customer agrees to pay Guldstreet's reasonable legal fees and court costs.
Section 12
Governing Laws & Regulatory Framework
Guldstreet Shipping operates as a licensed Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) and is bound by — and holds both itself and its customers to — the following federal and New York State laws and regulations. By using our services, you acknowledge and agree to comply with all applicable laws listed below.
Federal Laws & Regulations
| Law / Regulation | How It Applies to Us & You |
|---|---|
| Shipping Act of 1984 46 U.S.C. §§ 40101–41309 |
Governs all ocean transportation intermediaries operating in U.S. foreign commerce. Guldstreet holds OTI License #029841 issued by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). We are required to maintain a surety bond and publish tariffs. Customers are protected from unlawful shipping practices under this Act. |
| Federal Maritime Commission Regulations 46 C.F.R. Parts 515–535 |
As a licensed Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), Guldstreet must adhere to FMC tariff publication requirements, surety bond maintenance ($75,000), and prohibited practices rules. Customers may file complaints with the FMC at fmc.gov if they believe we have violated the Shipping Act. |
| Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 15 C.F.R. Parts 730–774 (Bureau of Industry and Security) |
All shipments from the United States are subject to U.S. export control laws. Customers must not tender any items that require an export license without first obtaining one. Guldstreet reserves the right to refuse any shipment that appears to violate EAR, and customers are solely liable for unlicensed exports. |
| Export Control Reform Act (ECRA) 50 U.S.C. §§ 4801–4852 |
Prohibits the export of controlled items, software, and technology without proper authorization. Customers warrant that all tendered cargo complies with ECRA and agree to indemnify Guldstreet for any violations arising from undisclosed or prohibited cargo. |
| OFAC Sanctions Regulations 31 C.F.R. Parts 500–598 (Office of Foreign Assets Control) |
Guldstreet screens all shipments against OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list. We will not facilitate any transaction that violates U.S. economic sanctions. Customers must not use our services to circumvent sanctions, and violations may result in immediate termination of service and reporting to federal authorities. |
| Customs Regulations — Electronic Export Information (EEI) 15 C.F.R. Part 30; 19 C.F.R. Part 192 |
Shipments with a declared value exceeding $2,500 per Schedule B number require filing of Electronic Export Information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES). Guldstreet files EEI on behalf of customers when required. Customers must provide accurate cargo descriptions and values — undervaluation or misdeclaration is a federal offense. |
| Carmack Amendment 49 U.S.C. § 14706 |
Governs carrier liability for loss or damage to cargo in interstate commerce. Guldstreet's liability is limited as stated in Section 9 of these Terms. Customers who wish to recover full replacement value must purchase additional declared value coverage in writing before shipment. |
| Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA) 46 U.S.C. §§ 30701 et seq. |
Governs the rights and responsibilities of ocean carriers and cargo owners for international shipments. Limits carrier liability to $500 per package unless a higher value is declared and agreed upon in writing. Guldstreet's bills of lading incorporate COGSA terms by reference. |
| Hague-Visby Rules (incorporated by reference) | Where applicable to shipments to Ghana, the Hague-Visby Rules govern carrier obligations for seaworthiness of the vessel and proper cargo handling. Customers are entitled to rely on these protections for international ocean freight. |
| Bank Secrecy Act / Anti-Money Laundering (AML) 31 U.S.C. §§ 5311–5336 |
Guldstreet maintains AML compliance procedures and will report suspicious transactions to FinCEN as required by law. Customers must not use our payment systems to launder money or structure transactions to avoid reporting thresholds. Violations will result in immediate termination and federal reporting. |
| USA PATRIOT Act Pub. L. 107-56 |
Requires Guldstreet to maintain customer identification and due diligence procedures. We reserve the right to request identity verification from any customer and may decline service to individuals or entities that cannot be verified. |
| Tariff Act of 1930 — CBP Regulations 19 U.S.C. § 1304; 19 C.F.R. |
All goods exported from the United States must comply with CBP export requirements. Customers are responsible for ensuring goods are properly marked, classified, and declared. Guldstreet will cooperate fully with any CBP inspection and is not liable for delays resulting from CBP holds. |
| FTC Act — Unfair or Deceptive Practices 15 U.S.C. § 45 |
Guldstreet is committed to truthful advertising and transparent pricing. All rates published on our website are accurate as of the posting date. Customers have the right to receive services as advertised and may file complaints with the FTC at ftc.gov if they believe they have been deceived. |
| IATA Regulations IATA #1-2-3045 |
Guldstreet holds an IATA accreditation and adheres to IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) for any air freight components. Customers must disclose all hazardous materials, and undisclosed dangerous goods shipments are the sole liability of the customer. |
New York State Laws
| Law / Regulation | How It Applies to Us & You |
|---|---|
| New York Lien Law N.Y. Lien Law §§ 180–204 (Warehouseman's Lien) |
Guldstreet has a statutory warehouseman's lien on all cargo in its possession for unpaid charges including shipping fees, storage fees, and pickup fees. We may retain and ultimately sell stored cargo to satisfy unpaid balances after providing legally required notice. Customers waive any claim of wrongful detention of cargo while a valid lien exists. |
| New York Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) — Article 7 N.Y. U.C.C. §§ 7-101 et seq. |
Governs warehouse receipts, bills of lading, and documents of title. Guldstreet's receipts issued upon cargo acceptance constitute documents of title under Article 7. Customers must present valid documentation to claim cargo. UCC Article 7 also governs Guldstreet's lien enforcement rights on stored goods. |
| New York UCC — Article 2 (Contracts) N.Y. U.C.C. §§ 2-101 et seq. |
Service agreements between Guldstreet and customers are governed by New York contract law principles. Modification of agreed terms requires written consent from Guldstreet. Oral agreements regarding price, schedule, or service scope are not binding on Guldstreet. |
| New York General Business Law § 349 N.Y. GBL § 349 |
Prohibits deceptive acts or practices in business. Guldstreet commits to honest, transparent dealings with all customers. Customers who believe they have been subjected to deceptive practices may bring a claim under GBL § 349 and, if successful, may recover actual damages, attorneys' fees, and up to $1,000 in additional damages. |
| New York Personal Property Law — Bailment N.Y. Personal Property Law §§ 40–50 |
When Guldstreet takes possession of customer cargo, a bailment relationship is created. Guldstreet owes a duty of reasonable care to protect bailed goods. Customers must accurately describe the nature and value of all goods tendered. Guldstreet is not liable for damage to goods whose nature was misrepresented by the customer. |
| New York Abandoned Property Law N.Y. Abandoned Property Law §§ 1300 et seq. |
Cargo left unclaimed for 30 days after written notice to the customer's last known address may be treated as abandoned property. Guldstreet reserves the right to dispose of abandoned cargo to recover storage and handling costs, with any surplus remitted to the State of New York as required by law. |
| New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) N.Y. CPLR |
Governs all legal proceedings in New York courts. Any action arising from these Terms must be commenced within the applicable statute of limitations: 3 years for injury to property (CPLR § 214), 6 years for breach of contract (CPLR § 213). Claims not commenced within the applicable period are time-barred. |
| New York Small Claims Court Rules N.Y. Uniform City Court Act § 1801 et seq. |
Claims up to $10,000 may be brought in New York City Small Claims Court without an attorney. Guldstreet expressly preserves its right to use Small Claims Court to recover unpaid pickup fees, storage fees, and outstanding balances from customers, and customers retain the same right against Guldstreet for claims within the jurisdictional limit. |
| New York Labor Law & Business Licensing N.Y. Labor Law; N.Y. Business Corporation Law |
Guldstreet operates as a properly registered business entity under New York law, maintaining all required business licenses and workers' compensation coverage for employees engaged in pickup and delivery operations. |
Customer compliance obligation: By tendering cargo to Guldstreet, the Customer represents and warrants that they are in full compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, including but not limited to U.S. export control laws, customs regulations, and OFAC sanctions. Any fines, penalties, legal fees, or losses incurred by Guldstreet as a result of a Customer's violation of applicable law will be billed to and collected from that Customer.
Section 12
Contact
Questions about these Terms may be directed to:
Guldstreet Shipping
New York, NY
hello@guldstreetshipping.com
+1 (551) 800-2125