UNIVERSAL TRADING LLC (The Bark Co.)
Last Updated: 31 December, 2025

This section describes, in full detail, the services provided by UNIVERSAL TRADING LLC (The Bark Co.) and the complete operational workflow from first contact through post-handover support. This section forms part of and is incorporated into the Terms of Service & Purchase Agreement and the Japanese Commercial Law Compliance section.

1. Scope of Services Provided

We provide commercial, coordination, and supply services related to modular and prefabricated housing solutions. Our services may include, depending on the specific project and written agreement:
   -Project consultation and feasibility discussion
   -Design coordination based on client requirements
   -Preparation and issuance of written quotations and proposals
   -Manufacturing coordination of modular housing units
   -Quality control documentation and reporting
   -Logistics coordination and delivery arrangement
   -Installation coordination or supervision, where expressly agreed
   -Completion and handover administration
   -Warranty administration and after-sales support

Not all services are included in every project. Only services expressly stated in the written quotation or signed agreement are included.

2. Inquiry and Pre-Contract Stage

2.1 Initial Inquiry
Clients may submit inquiries through the website, email, or other written channels. This stage is non-binding.

2.2 Information Collection
We may request information including, but not limited to:
   -Intended project location and jurisdiction
   -Intended use (residential, commercial, temporary, etc.)
   -Desired size, layout, finishes, and systems
   -Delivery method preferences
   -Target schedule and budget range

Failure to provide accurate information may delay or prevent quotation.

2.3 No Obligation to Proceed
Submission of an inquiry does not obligate either party to proceed with a transaction.

3. Quotation and Proposal Stage

3.1 Written Quotation Issuance
If feasible, we issue a written quotation describing:
   -Scope of supply
   -Included and excluded items
   -Price and payment milestones
   -Delivery terms and estimated timelines
   -Installation scope (if any)

3.2 Validity Period
Quotations are valid only for the period stated. Pricing and availability may change due to market conditions, currency fluctuation, or regulatory requirements.

3.3 No Binding Effect Until Acceptance
A quotation is not binding until formally accepted in writing and confirmed by us, and any required deposit is paid.

4. Contract Formation and Project Confirmation

4.1 Acceptance Requirements
A project is confirmed only when:
   -The quotation or agreement is signed by the client
   -Written acceptance is issued by us
   -Required deposit is received

4.2 Project Documentation Creation
Upon confirmation, final Project Documentation is prepared, including drawings, specifications, layouts, and scope definitions.

4.3 Design Approval and Freeze
Client must review and approve Project Documentation in writing. Once approved, the design is frozen and changes require a written Change Order.

5. Regulatory and Feasibility Review

5.1 Jurisdictional Considerations
We may review general regulatory requirements based on information provided. However, unless expressly agreed in writing, responsibility for local permits, approvals, and authority interactions rests with the client.

5.2 Client Cooperation
Clients must cooperate by providing local regulatory information when requested. Delays or inaccuracies may impact schedule and cost.

6. Manufacturing Coordination

6.1 Manufacturing Commencement
Manufacturing begins only after:
   -Design approval
   -Deposit receipt
   -Final Project Documentation confirmation

6.2 Customization
Most projects involve customization. Manufacturing timelines are estimates unless expressly guaranteed in writing.

6.3 Quality Documentation
We coordinate quality inspections and collect manufacturing and inspection reports as part of project records.

7. Change Management During Production

7.1 Change Requests
Any client-requested change must be submitted in writing using the designated Change Request or Action Form.

7.2 Change Orders
Approved changes are documented through a signed Change Order, which may affect price and schedule.

7.3 No Verbal Changes
Verbal instructions or informal messages have no effect unless confirmed in writing.

8. Logistics and Delivery Coordination

8.1 Delivery Planning
Delivery method and destination are defined in the quotation or agreement.

8.2 Shipping and Customs
We coordinate shipping arrangements as agreed. The client is responsible for customs clearance and import requirements unless otherwise stated in writing.

8.3 Risk Transfer
Risk transfers according to the agreed delivery terms stated in the Project Documentation.

8.4 Delays Beyond Control
Shipping timelines may be affected by port congestion, customs inspections, weather, or force majeure events.

9. Site Preparation and Installation

9.1 Site Readiness
Where installation is included, the client must confirm site readiness in writing before delivery or installation.

9.2 Installation Scope
Installation, assembly, or supervision services are provided only if explicitly included in the written agreement.

9.3 Client Responsibilities
Unless otherwise agreed, the client is responsible for:
   -Foundations and civil works
   -Utilities and connections
   -Site access and safety
   -Permits and inspections

9.4 Delays and Additional Costs
Site-related delays may result in schedule extensions and additional costs as permitted by the agreement.

10. Completion and Handover

10.1 Completion Confirmation
Upon delivery or installation completion, a Completion & Handover Certificate may be issued.

10.2 Client Acceptance
The client must inspect and confirm acceptance within the time period stated in the agreement.

10.3 Punch Items
Minor punch list items do not delay acceptance unless they materially affect safe use.

11. Warranty Commencement and After-Sales Support

11.1 Warranty Start
Warranty coverage begins on the completion or handover date, as defined in the warranty certificate or agreement.

11.2 Warranty Administration
All warranty claims must be submitted in writing. We administer claims and coordinate resolution under the applicable warranty terms.

11.3 Support Outside Warranty
Support outside warranty coverage may be offered on a paid basis, subject to availability and written agreement.

12. Communication and Recordkeeping

12.1 Formal Communication
Formal notices, claims, and change requests must be submitted using designated written forms or email as specified.

12.2 Record Maintenance
We maintain project records for contractual, operational, and compliance purposes.

13. Project Closure

13.1 Completion of Obligations
Upon completion, handover, and expiry of applicable warranty periods, the project is considered closed except for outstanding obligations under law or contract.

13.2 Surviving Obligations
Confidentiality, payment obligations, and dispute resolution provisions survive project closure.

Contact

For refund inquiries or change requests, contact:

📩 info@storethebark.com
All requests must be submitted in writing.