FAQs

Buyers

Why can’t I order items from different chefs in one single transaction?

Picking up orders from different locations presents logistical challenges which affects the delivery process. In order for us to ensure each and every order is picked up and delivered within the shortest time window, we have decided to simplify this process by associating every order with a single vendor.

However, rest assured that we are working on a solution to this and we intend to offer the ability for you to buy from multiple vendors within one single transaction. For now, you would simply have to order them in separate transactions!

How do I cancel an order?

After an order is accepted, there is no cancellation. This is due to the fact that once a seller accepts the order, he/she is presumed to have begun preparation of the order so cancellations would result in wastage of food by the seller.

What happens if I have an issue with the item after I received it?

Please contact us at [email protected] or click on the Chat button at the bottom of this page to reach out to us via WhatsApp.

Why is my delivery so expensive?

Our delivery charges are calculated based on distance from the seller’s location to yours.

Sellers

Do I need any license or certifications to sell food from home?

No, you do not.

According to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), home-based food businesses are exempted from licensing requirements. However, you are still required by law to ensure that the food you sell is prepared in a manner that is safe for consumption. All home chefs are encouraged to adopt the guidelines on good food safety practices.

While it is not required, we do highly encourage home chefs to complete the Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) Food Safety Course Level 1. Once you have it, do upload it on your profile and once verified, you will receive a verified badge on your listings.

What can I sell on BlockChef?

Almost anything and everything!

Meat and seafood should be imported in compliance with the Wholesome Meat and Fish Act (WMFA), or legally obtained from SFA-regulated sources, prepared in a hygienic manner and are safe for consumption.

One exception is ready-to-eat raw fish, as it is considered a high-risk food so home based food businesses are not allowed to prepare it for sale.

What do I need to start selling on BlockChef?

Just a recipe and the ingredients to make it!

According to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), residents living in HDB and private residential premises respectively are permitted to operated home-based businesses, as long as you do not cause issues to your neighbours.

How much does it cost?

We offer free Basic accounts and commission-based Pro accounts. Please refer to our pricing page.

My store has been created. What next?

Creating your store is only the first step. BlockChef provides marketing support, but you would achieve the best results if you do some marketing on your end. For example, by adding your store link to your Instagram bio, or sharing your store link with your followers on social media.

What kind of marketing support can I get?

Depending on your plan, you get access to a variety of different marketing support which you can request for in the Marketing Support page within your store dashboard.

Articles – based on the information and images you provided, we will do a write up for your business and publish it on our Articles page.

Photoshoot – you can submit a request for a professional photoshoot for your food, and we will reach out to you to make arrangements.

Videoshoot – BlockChef produces content on a regular basis as part of our media platform, so by submitting a request for a videoshoot, we will plan a video around your business and food and reach out to you to make arrangements.

Influencer engagement – We work with a vast network of influencers and by joining us, you also gain access to this network. If you would like for influencers to try your food and post about it, submit a request and we will reach out to influencers on your behalf.

How do I get paid for my orders?

For all digital payments, we will automatically disburse payouts every Friday on a weekly basis to your bank account.

Please note that payouts are withheld for 7-days after transaction completion, in case of disputes with the order. This means that if you receive an order on a Thursday, you will be paid out the following Friday.

How do I get in touch if I need help?

You can always reach us at [email protected]. You can also click on the Chat button below to reach out to us via WhatsApp.