Refund & Returns Policy

Effective Date: 22 January 2026
Website: https://www.shoplinka.com

1. How Our Marketplace Works

Shoplinka.com is an online marketplace that connects Customers with independent sellers (“Vendors”).

• Each Vendor is responsible for the products they list and for fulfilling their orders.

• While Shoplinka.com provides the marketplace platform, the legal contract of sale is between the Customer and the Vendor.

• This policy ensures compliance with the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA).

2. Return Periods & Statutory Rights

In accordance with South African law, two types of returns are supported:

a) 7-Day Cooling-Off Period (ECTA – Change of Mind)

• Customers may cancel most online purchases within 7 days of receiving the item, for any reason.

• Items must be unused, unopened, and in original packaging.

• The Customer is responsible for return shipping costs.

b) 6-Month Statutory Warranty (CPA – Defective Goods)

• If a product is defective, damaged, or not as described, Customers are entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund for up to 6 months after delivery.

• In these cases, the Vendor is responsible for return or collection shipping costs.

3. When Can I Request a Refund?

You may request a refund if:

• The item is defective, damaged, or unfit for its intended purpose

• The item is materially different from the description or images provided

• The wrong item was delivered

• The order was not delivered within the agreed timeframe

4. Items Excluded from Returns

In line with ECTA, the following items cannot be returned for a change of mind (unless defective):

• Perishable goods (e.g. food, flowers)

• Personalised or custom-made items

• Opened hygiene-sensitive products (e.g. earrings, swimwear, underwear, beauty products)

• Digital downloads or software once accessed or downloaded

• Books, magazines, or newspapers

5. Return Conditions

To qualify for a refund or exchange:

Change of Mind Returns

• Items must be in original, unopened packaging

• All seals, tags, and accessories must be intact

Defective Items

• Items must be returned with all included parts and accessories

Proof of Purchase

• A valid Shoplinka.com order number or digital receipt is required

6. Shipping Costs for Returns

• Vendor Fault:
  If the return is due to a defect, damage, or incorrect item, the Vendor covers return or collection costs.

• Customer Choice:
  If returning due to a change of mind, the Customer pays return shipping costs.
  Original delivery fees are non-refundable.

7. How to Request a Refund

1. Initiate Request
   Log in to your Shoplinka.com account, go to “My Orders”, and select “Request Refund”.

2. Provide Evidence
   Upload clear photos of the item and packaging (especially if damaged or incorrect).

3. Vendor Response
   The Vendor has 48 hours to respond to your request.

4. Collection or Return
   If approved, the Vendor or Shoplinka.com’s logistics partner will arrange collection or provide return instructions.

8. Refund Processing & Payment

• Once the Vendor receives and inspects the returned item, refunds are processed within 5–10 business days.

• Refunds are issued using the original payment method (e.g. card, EFT, Paystack).

• Cash refunds are not offered for online payments.

9. Dispute Resolution & Shoplinka Intervention

If a Vendor:

• Rejects a valid return request, or

• Fails to respond within 48 hours

You may escalate the issue to Shoplinka.com by emailing [email protected].

• Shoplinka.com will mediate disputes in line with the CPA and this policy.

• If a Vendor is found to be in breach of South African consumer law, Shoplinka.com reserves the right to refund the Customer directly from the Vendor’s account.

10. Contact Us

For assistance with returns or refunds, please contact us:

Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp / Call: +27 73 136 5631