Terms And Conditions
​Welcome to The Shelf, an online marketplace supporting local crafters by providing a platform for selling handmade and unique items. By registering, listing products, or making a purchase, you agree to comply with these Terms and Conditions.
Buyers Terms And Conditions:
Definitions
"The Shelf" refers to the online platform that facilitates the sale of handmade and craft items.
"Buyer" refers to any customer purchasing items through the platform.
"User" refers to anyone accessing or using The Shelf platform.
​
Order Processing and Payments
Order Placement
-
Customers browse and purchase products through The Shelf’s secure online platform.
-
Once a purchase is made, the buyer receives an order confirmation.
-
Orders undergo a final quality check before being packed and shipped.
-
Buyers receive tracking details once the order is dispatched.
Payments
-
Payments are securely processed through The Shelf’s designated payment gateway, ensuring fraud protection and compliance with industry standards.
-
Funds are held in escrow until the order is successfully delivered and the buyer confirms satisfaction or 14 days after the purchase was made.
-
In the case of disputes, funds remain on hold until resolution through The Shelf’s dispute management system.
​
Shipping and Fulfillment
Order Fulfillment Process
-
Orders are processed immediately after purchase.
-
Products are carefully packaged to prevent damage during transit.
-
Orders are shipped via trusted carriers, and buyers receive tracking details for real-time updates.
Shipping Methods & Delivery Times
-
Standard Shipping: Delivered within 3-7 business days.
-
Express Shipping: Delivered within 1-3 business days (available at checkout).
-
Orders are processed within 1-2 business days.
-
A tracking number will be provided once the order ships.
Shipping Costs & Responsibilities
-
Buyers are responsible for shipping fees unless stated otherwise in promotional offers.
-
The Shelf negotiates competitive shipping rates for affordable and reliable delivery options.
-
In case of lost or damaged shipments, The Shelf works with shipping providers to resolve issues quickly.
Local Shipping Rates
-
Standard Shipping: R200 (<15kg)
-
Express Shipping: R250 (<15kg)
​
Returns and Refunds
Returns
-
Buyers have 14 days from the date of purchase to request a return.
-
Items must be unused, in original packaging, and with all tags attached.
-
A valid receipt or order confirmation is required.
-
Returns that do not meet these conditions may not be eligible for a refund or may incur a restocking fee.
Refunds
-
Approved refunds are processed within 5-7 business days and issued to the original payment method.
-
Non-refundable items include:
-
Personalized items (customized or made-to-order products)
-
Final-sale or clearance items
-
Exchanges
-
Buyers must report defective or damaged items within 48 hours of delivery.
-
A replacement item will be arranged upon verification of the defect or damage.
How to Initiate a Return or Exchange
-
Contact support at Theshelfonlinemarket@gmail.com with the order number and reason for return/exchange.
-
Wait for confirmation and return instructions.
-
Return shipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility unless the item is defective or incorrect.
​
Prohibited Items and Conduct
Buyers may not attempt to purchase:
-
Counterfeit, stolen, or trademark-infringing goods.
-
Items that violate local, national, or international laws.
-
Hazardous or unsafe materials.
-
Items that promote hate speech or discrimination.
-
Live animals.
Fraud, misrepresentation, or abusive behavior on the platform is strictly prohibited.
​
Intellectual Property
-
Buyers may not use The Shelf’s trademarks, branding, or copyrighted material without permission.
-
Unauthorized use of seller-provided images or descriptions is prohibited.
​
Limitation of Liability
-
The Shelf acts solely as a marketplace and does not manufacture, store, or inspect sold items beyond quality control measures at the distribution center.
-
The Shelf is not liable for direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from transactions.
​
Termination and Suspension
-
The Shelf reserves the right to suspend or terminate user accounts that violate these Terms and Conditions.
-
Buyers who engage in fraudulent activities or misconduct may be banned from the platform.
​
Amendments and Updates
-
The Shelf may update these Terms and Conditions at any time.
-
Changes will be communicated to users through the platform.
-
Continued use of the platform after updates signifies acceptance of the revised terms.
​
Contact Information
For questions or concerns about these Terms and Conditions,
Contact us at Theshelfonlinemarket@gmail.com.
Privacy Policy
Welcome to The Shelf. Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website and use our services. By accessing or using The Shelf, you consent to the practices described in this policy.
1. Information We Collect
We collect various types of information in order to provide and improve our services:
Personal Information:
-
When you register as a crafter or customer, we collect personal details such as your name, email address, phone number, billing/shipping address, and payment information.
Non-Personal Information:
-
We collect usage data, device information, IP addresses, and browsing behavior through cookies and analytics tools.
Transaction Information:
-
Purchase history, product listings, order details, and payment processing information.
Communications Data:
-
Messages, reviews, inquiries, and other correspondence between users and our team.
​
2. How We Use Your Information
We use the collected information to:
-
Provide, operate, and improve The Shelf
-
Process transactions and send order confirmations
-
Manage user accounts and provide customer support
-
Personalize your experience and recommend products
-
Communicate promotional offers, updates, and notifications
-
Detect fraud, security threats, and illegal activities
-
Comply with legal obligations
​
3. How We Share Your Information
We do not sell or rent your personal data. However, we may share information in the following cases:
-
With Service Providers: Third-party payment processors, delivery partners, or analytics providers.
-
With Crafters: If you make a purchase, the seller receives necessary order details.
-
For Legal Compliance: If required by law, court orders, or regulatory authorities.
-
For Business Transfers: In case of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred.
​
4. Data Security
We implement security measures to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials.
​
5. Your Rights & Choices
-
Access & Correction: You can update or delete your information in your account settings.
-
Opt-Out: You can unsubscribe from marketing emails or disable certain cookies.
-
Data Deletion: You may request account deletion by contacting us.
-
​
6. Cookies & Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar tracking tools to enhance your experience, analyze website traffic, and customize content. You can manage cookie preferences in your browser settings.
​
7. Third-Party Links & Services
The Shelf may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their policies before providing any information.
​
8. Children's Privacy
Our platform is not intended for individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors.
​
9. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.
​​
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Email: TheShelfOnlineMarket@gmail.com.
​
Thank you for trusting The Shelf with your information.