Frequently Asked Questions
Unity Tech Shop: Your Comprehensive FAQ Guide
This guide is designed to provide detailed answers to common questions about shopping at Unity Tech Shop.
The aim is to ensure full transparency in operations, from pricing and payment to shipping and returns, thereby facilitating a smooth and confident purchasing experience for businesses.
Getting Started with Unity Tech Shop
Unity Tech Shop functions as Unity World's dedicated e-commerce platform, meticulously designed to offer businesses a seamless and efficient avenue for procuring a diverse array of technology products. The overarching objective of the platform is to deliver high-quality products coupled with excellent service, ensuring that business transactions can be processed with utmost functionality, operational efficiency, and financial integrity. The emphasis on enabling comprehensive processing capabilities underscores Unity Tech Shop's commitment to providing a robust, end-to-end business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce experience, extending beyond a mere product catalogue. This foundational approach signifies a strong dedication to reliability and adherence to compliance standards for all business transactions conducted through the platform.
For general enquiries related to payments, communication can be initiated via email at hello@unity.world or by telephone at 0330 1196 666. For specific questions or assistance concerning shipping logistics or technical product enquiries, the Technical Team can be contacted at service@unity.world or by calling 0330 1196 666. Furthermore, for questions pertaining to the pricing and discount policy, enquiries can be directed to hello@unity.world.
Pricing & Payments
Product prices on Unity Tech Shop are set to make as competitively priced as possible. This pricing strategy is designed to ensure that, after accounting for all applicable fees and the unit cost of an item, a predetermined target margin is consistently achieved for each specific product category and customer type. This methodology guarantees that the pricing remains competitive while simultaneously safeguarding the financial health and sustainability of the operations. The calculation of prices involves three primary components: the Unit Cost (which excludes VAT), any applicable fees associated with the transaction, and the designated target margin. It is important to note that Value Added Tax (VAT) or other applicable taxes are subsequently added to the price after the margin calculation has been performed. Furthermore, the chosen payment method, whether Stripe or an On-Account arrangement, is also a critical factor in the price determination, as it directly influences the specific fees that will be applied to the transaction. This detailed, multi-factor pricing model reflects a sophisticated approach to financial management, which is essential for a B2B operation that accommodates various customer types and diverse payment methods. The explanation provided here aims to translate this internal complexity into a transparent understanding for the customer.
All prices presented on the product lists within Unity Tech Shop are displayed exclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT). This approach is a standard practice in B2B transactions, as businesses typically reclaim VAT. A comprehensive breakdown of the total VAT amount will be clearly itemised within the shopping basket and on the overall order total, providing complete transparency before the purchase is finalised. This clear distinction between the ex-VAT product price and the detailed VAT breakdown in the basket ensures direct clarity for business customers.
Unity Tech Shop exclusively accepts business payment methods, all of which are processed securely through Stripe. The accepted payment methods include: Business Debit Cards, Business Credit Cards, Immediate Bank Transfer, Open Banking Payments).
For stringent security and compliance reasons, personal debit or credit cards are not accepted, nor are alternative payment methods such as PayPal, cash, or cheques. The strict adherence to accepting only business-specific payment methods reinforces Unity Tech Shop's dedicated B2B focus and its robust strategy for fraud prevention. This policy, while it may present an initial inconvenience for some sole traders, serves as a crucial safeguard against personal card chargebacks and ensures a clear, auditable trail for all business transactions.
The policy at Unity Tech Shop mandates the exclusive use of business payment methods for all transactions. This stringent requirement is a critical measure implemented for enhanced fraud prevention and overall financial security, aligning precisely with the B2B operational model of the platform. Specifically, if a sole trader attempts to use a personal card, the transaction will be rejected. In such instances, manual verification will be required, and a valid business payment method must be provided to proceed with the order. To facilitate this, an option may be provided to "call the office" for manual checks if an online order cannot be completed using a personal card. The explicit rejection of personal cards, particularly for sole traders, and the provision of a "call the office" alternative, highlight a practical challenge inherent in B2B e-commerce: accurately distinguishing between legitimate business purchases made by sole traders and personal transactions. While the policy prioritises security, the "call the office" option demonstrates an effort to balance stringent security protocols with accommodating the customer service needs of this specific business segment.
Payment processing times at Unity Tech Shop vary depending on the specific method selected. For Business Debit & Credit Cards, processing is typically instant, provided the payment is approved. Immediate Bank Transfers also generally process instantly, once verified. Open Banking Payments are usually processed within 1 business day Manual Bank Transfers may take up to 5 business days to clear. It is important to note that orders will not be processed or shipped until the full payment has been received and successfully cleared. Providing these clear processing times helps to manage customer expectations regarding the fulfilment of their orders. The explicit statement that orders will not be dispatched until payment is cleared serves as a crucial point of transparency.
Table: Payment Method Processing Times
Payment Method | Processing Time |
Business Debit & Credit Cards | Instant (if approved) |
Immediate Bank Transfer | Instant (if verified) |
Open Banking Payments | Within 1 business day |
Manual Bank Transfers | Up to 5 business days |
Credit Facilities for Business Customers
Yes, Unity Tech Shop extends credit facilities to a select group of pre-qualified, UK-based business customers. Eligibility for these facilities is contingent upon a demonstrated history of reliable payments with Unity World. The provision of credit facilities is a key offering designed to provide flexible payment options, particularly beneficial for facilitating larger purchases by established business clients. The availability of such credit arrangements is a significant advantage for B2B customers, as it supports substantial transactions and fosters repeat business relationships.
Eligibility for a credit facility is determined by a stringent set of criteria, meticulously designed to ensure responsible credit allocation and effective risk mitigation.
The criteria include:
● Minimum Order & Payment History: Businesses must have successfully completed a minimum of 5 upfront payment orders with Unity World, accumulating a total historical value exceeding £5,000. Furthermore, the applicant must possess no history of late payments, chargebacks, or disputes with Unity Tech Shop.
● Business Registration & Trading History: Applicants must be legally registered within the UK and hold an active Companies House number. For sole traders, the provision of their Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) and verifiable proof of business trading is mandatory. The business must have been operational for a minimum of 12 months.
● Credit Check & Financial Risk Assessment: A comprehensive creditworthiness assessment will be conducted utilising Credit Safe, a reputable UK-based credit rating service. The assigned credit limit will be directly influenced by the business’s Credit Safe risk score. Businesses exhibiting County Court Judgments (CCJs), instances of insolvency, or a poor credit score will regrettably be denied credit.
It is important to note that this credit facility is not applicable to new customers or individual personal buyers. The rigorous eligibility criteria, encompassing a substantial order history, minimum transaction value, operational longevity, and a thorough Credit Safe evaluation, signify a highly conservative and risk-averse approach to credit extension. This strategy serves to protect Unity Tech Shop from potential bad debt and ensures that credit is granted exclusively to reliable business partners, thereby fostering enduring and trustworthy relationships.
Businesses meeting the established eligibility criteria can initiate an application for a credit facility by submitting a completed Credit Application Form, which is accessible on Unity World's website. The application must be accompanied by relevant business registration details, such as a Companies House number or Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), along with the latest financial statements or tax filings. Additionally, authorisation for a Credit Safe financial review is required.
Upon receipt of the application, the Finance Team will conduct a thorough credit assessment. This process includes performing the Credit Safe check and meticulously reviewing the customer’s past transaction history with Unity World. Following a successful assessment and approval, the customer will be issued a formal Credit Agreement. This agreement will clearly delineate the approved credit limit, the specific payment terms, and any applicable penalties for late payments. The credit line will become active only upon the customer's signature and acceptance of this formal agreement. The provision of this step-by-step application process offers clear guidance to interested customers, streamlining their journey toward obtaining a credit facility.
The credit facility at Unity Tech Shop is structured into distinct tiers, which are determined by the customer's Credit Safe score and their historical payment performance. This tiered approach enables the provision of tailored credit terms that align with individual business profiles.
Table: Credit Tiers, Limits, and Repayment Terms
Credit Tier | Credit Safe Risk Score | Credit Limit | Repayment Terms |
Standard | Fair (51-70) | Up to £5,000 | 30-day net terms |
Gold | Good (71-85) | Up to £15,000 | 30-60-day net terms |
Platinum | Excellent (86-100) | Custom (above £15,000) | 60-90-day net terms |
This transparent tiered credit structure provides clarity regarding the potential credit limits and repayment periods available, directly correlating with the assessed creditworthiness of the applicant.
Tech Shop orders, when placed using a credit facility, undergo an individualised risk assessment, which may result in bespoke terms that deviate from standard credit arrangements. These customised terms could encompass shorter credit periods, for example, 14 days instead of the typical 30 days. Furthermore, a lower credit limit might be applied specifically to Tech Shop orders compared to general product orders. For high-value or custom Tech Shop orders, upfront payment requirements may also be imposed. If an order exceeds the customer's approved credit limit, a partial upfront payment will be required to proceed with the transaction. The specific stipulation that "Tech Shop orders" are subject to case-by-case review for credit suggests that these types of orders might involve higher values, unique configurations, or distinct risk profiles when compared to standard product orders. This implies a more granular and tailored risk assessment process for these particular transactions.
Should a payment on a credit account extend beyond its due date, a penalty of 1.5% per month will be incurred. If a payment becomes 15 days overdue, the credit facility will be suspended. Furthermore, if a payment is overdue by 30 days or more, no new orders will be accepted until the outstanding issue is fully resolved. Unity Tech Shop adheres to its established Late Payment Handling Procedure for all overdue accounts, which may, if necessary, escalate to legal action or engagement with a third-party debt collection agency. Additionally, Unity World reserves the right to levy statutory interest on late payments, which can amount to up to 8% interest plus the prevailing Bank of England base rate on overdue invoices. The clear articulation of consequences for late payments is an essential component of the credit policy, serving to reinforce financial discipline among customers.
Shipping & Delivery
Unity Tech Shop provides a variety of shipping options tailored to meet diverse business needs. To ensure eligibility for next-day shipping, orders must be placed by 12:00 PM.
Table: Standard Shipping Options and Charges
Shipping Option | Item Type | Price | Conditions |
Standard Next Day Delivery | IT Equipment | £9.99 | Order by 12:00 PM for next-day delivery. |
Next Day Pre Noon | IT Equipment | £35.00 | Delivery likely between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM the next day. |
Bulk Shipping (Per 100kg) | IT Equipment | £35.00 (for 100kg) | Priced incrementally: 200kg = £60.00, 300kg = £85.00, 400kg = £110.00, etc. |
Standard Delivery | Cabling | £12.95 | - |
To qualify for next-day shipping, orders must be placed by 12:00 PM (noon). Any orders submitted after this specified time will be processed on the subsequent business day.
For time-sensitive shipments, Unity Tech Shop offers premium shipping options, with pricing structured according to the size and nature of the order.
Table: Premium Shipping Services
This only applies to cabling products
Service | Item Type | Price |
Pre 10:30 AM Delivery | For 9U cabinets or smaller orders | £40.00 |
| For 8+ boxes of cables (pallets) or 12U and above cabinets | £60.00 |
Pre 12:00 PM Delivery | For 9U cabinets or smaller orders | £35.00 |
| For 8+ boxes of cables (pallets) or 12U and above cabinets | £45.00 |
The provision of tiered premium shipping services caters to diverse business requirements, particularly for urgent deliveries or shipments involving large and heavy items.
If a scheduled shipping collection is missed because the recipient is unavailable or unable to provide access for pickup, a reattempt charge will be applied. This charge will be equivalent to the same shipping rate as the original booking.
Once an order has been dispatched, a confirmation email containing tracking details will be sent. These details can then be used to monitor the shipping status through the online tracking system
Unity Tech Shop's standard shipping days are Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.
Shipping & Delivery
To learn more about our returns policy please visit https://tech-shop.unity.world/media/wysiwyg/policyfiles/unity-returns-policy.pdf
Customers will receive an order confirmation email once their payment has been successfully authorised. While internal processes continually work to ensure the seamless functionality of automated order confirmations, the customer-facing policy confirms that this communication will be provided. This reflects the intended customer experience, implying that any internal operational issues are being addressed to ensure a seamless launch and ongoing service.
While Unity Tech Shop strives for 100% accuracy in inventory, there may be rare instances where a product displayed as "in stock" becomes unavailable during the checkout process. This is an issue that is actively being addressed to ensure real-time inventory accuracy. Should this situation occur, the customer support team will promptly assist with identifying suitable alternatives or processing a refund.
Special pricing arrangements or preferential rates may be offered at the discretion of the Commercial and Finance teams. These arrangements are considered on a customer-by-customer basis, taking into account several factors: the duration and strength of the business relationship with Unity, the customer's annual spend, their payment reliability, and their strategic importance to Unity Tech Shop. Formal approval from both the Commercial Head and the Finance Head is required before any such special rates can be implemented. This policy on special pricing indicates a degree of flexibility for key customer relationships, which is a common practice in B2B environments to reward loyalty and incentivise larger volumes of business.
Customers are advised to ensure that the shipping address provided at the time of order placement is accurate and accessible. It is important to note that additional charges may be applied for any changes requested to the shipping address after the order has been dispatched.
When available, discounts are applied from within the product's base margin and are calculated before any payment-related surcharges are added to the final price. This methodology ensures transparency in pricing and prevents the business from absorbing external processing or credit costs.
It is important to note that the specific rules for "Order Discount" and "Special Customer Discount" are currently undergoing definition internally. For any specific enquiries regarding discounts, customers are encouraged to contact the sales team by calling us on 03301196666. This approach acknowledges an operational area that is still being formalised, while simultaneously providing the customer with immediate recourse for discount-related questions, linking it to the general framework for discount application.
Legal & Compliance
Unity Tech Shop maintains a steadfast commitment to full transparency in its pricing practices. All charges, including product prices, shipping costs, Value Added Tax (VAT), and any payment-related surcharges, are clearly and comprehensively presented at the checkout stage and within the final invoice. This meticulous approach ensures complete compliance with the UK Consumer Protection Act.
Unity Tech Shop adheres to rigorous data protection standards, which include full compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. This commitment is particularly evident in the secure handling of credit and financial data, especially during the comprehensive credit assessment processes.
Conclusion
This comprehensive FAQ is designed to provide Unity Tech Shop customers with clear, detailed, and transparent information concerning every aspect of their purchasing journey. Continuous efforts are dedicated to enhancing the platform and refining policies to ensure the optimal experience for all businesses. For any further questions or specific assistance, customers are encouraged to contact the dedicated support teams.
