Return & Refund Policy
Return Time Frames
- For defective items, incorrect items, or items not fit for purpose: You have 6 months from the delivery date to return the item (as per Consumer Protection Act)
- For change of mind returns: You have 14 days from the delivery date
- For direct marketing purchases: You have a minimum 5-day cooling-off period to cancel the transaction
- Items that arrive damaged must be reported within 48 hours of delivery
Return Requirements
We want to make returns as smooth as possible. Here's what you need to do:
- All items should ideally be returned in their original packaging where possible
- Include all accessories, manuals, and parts that came with your purchase
- Items should be in their original condition unless defective
- Attach the return label provided in your return authorization email
Types of Returns
Defective, Unfit, or Not-as-Described Items
As per the Consumer Protection Act:
- You have 6 months to return items that:
- Are defective or faulty
- Are not fit for their intended purpose
- Do not match the description or sample
- The Seller will, at your choice:
- Repair the item
- Replace the item
- Refund the full purchase price, including any delivery charges you paid
- No fees will be charged for these returns
- Both return shipping and original delivery charges will be refunded
Damaged on Delivery or Incorrect Items
- Contact our support team within 48 hours of delivery
- Provide photos of the damage or incorrect item
- We'll arrange a free return shipping label
- Choose between a replacement, store credit, or full refund
Change of Mind Returns
- Return shipping costs may be your responsibility
- Item must be unused and in original condition
- Refund will be processed minus original shipping costs
- Store credit option available with no deductions
Excluded Items
While all items are returnable if defective or not fit for purpose within 6 months (as per CPA), the following items cannot be returned for change of mind:
- Items that have been used or consumed
- Sealed computer software, audio, or video recordings where the seal has been broken
- Custom-made items to your specifications
- Perishable items
Refund Processing
Payment Methods
- Credit/Debit Card payments: Refunded to original card within 5-7 business days
- EFT: Refunded to provided bank account within 3-5 business days
- Store Credit: Instantly available upon return approval
For returns under the Consumer Protection Act (defective/unfit/not as described items), your refund will include:
- Full purchase price of the item
- Original delivery charges you paid
- Cost of returning the item to us
Store Credit
- Valid for 36 months from issue date (as per CPA requirements for prepaid credits)
- Transferable to other AfterTheMarket accounts
- Can be used for partial payments
- Redeemable for cash at your request
Return Shipping
Free Returns
We offer free return shipping for:
- All items covered under CPA (defective, not fit for purpose, not as described)
- Damaged items
- Incorrect items shipped
- Orders over R1000 (excluding change of mind returns)
Standard Returns
For change of mind returns:
- Customer may be responsible for return shipping costs
- Must use tracked shipping method
- Insurance recommended for items over R500
- Return shipping label available at discounted rate
Contact Us
For any questions about our return policy or to initiate a return:
- Email: info@afterthemarket.co.za
This policy complies with the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008. We reserve the right to modify non-statutory portions of this policy at any time. Any changes will be posted on our website and will apply to purchases made after the posting date.