Shipping policy
Sunshine Seedling Services (Pty) Ltd ("SSS, our, we, us"), with registration number: 2002/007383/07, a private company duly incorporated in accordance with the laws of South Africa, with its registered address at:
F24 Chief Mhlambunzima Road, Pietermaritzburg,
KwaZulu-Natal
Website: www.sunshineseedlings.co.za
Phone: +27 (0)33 390 3047
1. Purpose
1.1 This Shipping Policy governs the shipping, transport and delivery of all seedlings supplied by SSS across South Africa. Due to the perishable and delicate nature of seedlings, we take special care in packaging, handling, and transportation to ensure that products arrive in optimal condition.
1.2 We offer nationwide delivery, including remote and outlying areas delivery, subject to the terms outlined below and applicable legislation, including the Consumer Protection Act, No. 68 of 2008 ("CPA") and the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, No. 25 of 2002 ("ECTA").
2. Processing Times
2.1 An order is processed within 2 to 4 business days from the date on which it is placed.
2.2 Orders will not be processed, shipped or delivered on weekends or public holidays.
2.3 Orders may be delayed during peak planting seasons or due to adverse weather conditions.
2.4 Custom or bulk orders may require additional preparation time.
3. Shipping Methods
3.1 We use reputable courier partners and, where necessary, specialised transport providers to ensure safe delivery of live plants –
3.1.1 Standard Courier Delivery (door-to-door where possible); and
3.1.2 Regional Depots / Collection Points (for certain remote areas).
3.2 We reserve the right to select the most suitable shipping/delivery method based on destination and order requirements.
3.3 Customers are responsible for providing accurate and complete delivery details. We shall not be liable for failed deliveries, losses, or additional costs arising from incorrect or incomplete information supplied by the customer.
4. Delivery Areas and Timeframes after Processing
4.1 Major cities and towns: 4 to 7 business days.
4.2 Regional areas: 5 to 10 business days.
4.3 Remote/outlying areas: 5 to 10 business days.
4.4 Customers in remote locations may be contacted to confirm logistics or arrange alternative delivery solutions.
5. Shipping and Delivery Costs
5.1 Shipping costs are calculated based on delivery location, order size and weight, packaging requirements and courier availability.
5.2 Additional surcharges may apply for remote or rural deliveries, bulk or oversized orders and special handling requirements.
5.3 All delivery/shipping fees will be communicated before order confirmation.
5.4 Free shipping may be offered for specific promotional periods or order thresholds. You may check current offers on our website.
6. Shipping and Delivery Delays
6.1 We shall not be liable for delays in delivery caused by factors beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:
6.1.1 Adverse weather conditions.
6.1.2 Transport or logistics disruptions.
6.1.3 Load shedding or power outages.
6.1.4 Acts or omissions of third-party service providers.
6.1.5 Force majeure or unforeseen events.
6.2 We will communicate promptly, keep you updated on any delivery delays, and provide you with regular delivery updates.
7. Tracking of Orders
7.1 Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a confirmation email with tracking details so you can monitor your parcel's journey until it is delivered.
8. Packaging and Handling
8.1 Seedlings are carefully packaged to minimise stress and damage during transit. This includes the following:
8.1.1 Protective trays or containers.
8.1.2 Moisture-retaining materials.
8.1.3 Ventilated packaging where necessary.
8.2 Despite our best efforts, minor transit stress may occur and is considered normal for live plants.
9. Delivery, Returns and Replacements
9.1 A responsible person must be available to receive the delivery.
9.2 Failed deliveries due to customer fault may incur re-delivery charges.
9.3 Customers in remote/outlying areas may be required to collect from a depot.
9.4 Customers must inspect goods upon delivery.
9.5 If the order arrives damaged or defective, please notify us within 24 (twenty-four) to 48 (forty-eight) hours of delivery.
9.6 Retain all packaging for verification.
9.7 Returns and refunds are processed in accordance with the CPA, applicable POPIA protection and our Returns Policy.
9.8 Due to the perishable nature of seedlings:
9.8.1 Returns are generally not accepted, however, in line with the CPA, we will assess claims for damaged, defective, or incorrect goods. Remedies may include replacement, refund, or credit, where applicable.
9.8.2 All claims are assessed fairly and on a case-by-case basis.
10. Customer Risk and Responsibility
10.1 Risk in the seedlings shall pass to the customer upon delivery to the customer's nominated address or collection point, in accordance with the CPA.
10.2 Customers agree and undertake to:
10.2.1 Provide accurate delivery details.
10.2.2 Ensure access to the delivery location.
10.2.3 Be available to receive perishable goods.
10.2.4 Care for seedlings immediately upon receipt.
10.3 SSS will not be liable for orders delivered to incorrect addresses due to incorrect information provided by the customer.
11. Policy Updates
11.1 We reserve the right to update, amend or replace any part of this policy by posting an updated version on our website. The most recent version will always apply. We will notify you of any material changes in accordance with applicable law, and such changes will be effective on the date specified in the notice. Your continued use of or access to the Services following the posting of any changes to the Shipping Policy constitutes acceptance of those changes.
12. Contact Information
12.1 For enquiries or further information regarding shipping, tracking or delivery, contact us at:
Email: online@sunshineseedlings.co.za
Phone: +27 (0)33 390 3047
Address: F24 Chief Mhlambunzima Road, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
Attention: Joelene Pillay
12.2 By placing an order, you acknowledge and agree to this Shipping Policy, subject to your rights under applicable South African law.
Download Shipping Policy HERE