This Refund & Returns Policy outlines how returns, refunds, and exchanges are handled on Clear Cart, a multi-vendor e-commerce marketplace. Clear Cart operates as a platform connecting Buyers with independent third-party sellers ("Vendors"). As such, refund and return obligations primarily rest with the individual Vendor unless otherwise stated.

This Policy is aligned with the **Consumer Protection Act (CPA) of South Africa**, where applicable.

1. PLATFORM ROLE

* Clear Cart does not sell products directly.
* All products are sold by independent Vendors.
* Each Vendor sets their own return and refund conditions, subject to minimum legal requirements.

Buyers are encouraged to review the Vendor’s specific return policy before completing a purchase.

2. ELIGIBILITY FOR RETURNS

Subject to the CPA and Vendor policies, Buyers may be eligible for a return if:

* The product is defective, damaged, or unsafe.
* The product is not as described or materially different from the listing.
* The incorrect product was delivered.

Unless required by law, returns may be rejected if:

* The product has been used, altered, or damaged after delivery.
* The product was purchased on sale or clearance (where clearly disclosed).
* The product is non-returnable for hygiene or safety reasons (e.g. underwear, cosmetics).

3. COOLING-OFF PERIOD (ONLINE PURCHASES)

In accordance with South African law, Buyers may cancel an online purchase within 7 days of delivery without reason, provided:

* The product is unused and in its original packaging.
* Return shipping costs may be for the Buyer’s account unless the product is defective.

4. RETURN PROCESS

To initiate a return:

1. The Buyer must submit a return request through their Clear Cart account or customer support.
2. The Vendor will review the request and provide return instructions.
3. The Buyer must return the product within the timeframe specified by the Vendor.

Failure to follow the return process may result in the return being rejected.

5. REFUNDS

5.1 Refund Method: 

* Approved refunds will be processed using the original payment method where possible.
* Processing times may vary depending on payment provider and Vendor.

5.2 Refund Timeframes:

* Once a returned product is received and inspected, refunds are typically processed within 7–14 business days.
* Clear Cart is not responsible for delays caused by banks, payment processors, or Vendors.

6. EXCHANGES

* Exchanges are handled at the discretion of the Vendor.
* Availability of replacement items is not guaranteed.

7. RETURN SHIPPING

* Buyers may be responsible for return shipping costs unless the product is defective or incorrect.
* Vendors may require proof of return shipping.

8. NON-RETURNABLE ITEMS

Certain products may not be eligible for return, including:

* Personal care or hygiene items.
* Custom-made or personalised products.
* Digital goods or downloadable content.
* Gift cards or vouchers.

Such exclusions must be clearly disclosed by the Vendor at the time of sale.

9. DISPUTES & PLATFORM ASSISTANCE

* Buyers and Vendors are encouraged to resolve disputes directly.
* Clear Cart may, at its discretion, assist with mediation.
* Clear Cart does not guarantee dispute outcomes and is not liable for Vendor decisions.

10. FRAUD PREVENTION

Clear Cart reserves the right to:

* Refuse refunds where fraud or abuse is suspected.
* Suspend or terminate accounts involved in refund abuse.

11. CHANGES TO THIS POLICY

Clear Cart may update this Refund & Returns Policy from time to time. Continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the revised Policy.

12. CONTACT INFORMATION

For refund or return-related queries, contact:

Email: info@clearcart.co.za