FAQ

What is your shipping policy?

Shipping & Delivery Policy

At Thrifty Ways, we aim to get your vintage finds to you as quickly as possible. Please review our shipping procedures and rates below:


Shipping Times

We pride ourselves on fast fulfillment to ensure you aren't waiting long for your gear:

  • Website Payments: Orders placed and paid for directly via our website are processed and shipped immediately.

  • WhatsApp / EFT Payments: If you are purchasing via WhatsApp, items will be shipped the same day, provided that payment is made immediately and your proof of payment is shared.

Courier Options & Rates

We offer two reliable shipping methods within South Africa:

  • Pudo (Locker to Locker): R100

  • Fastway (Door to Door): R149

Tracking Your Order

Once your package has been scanned into the courier system, you will receive your tracking details via email. These notifications are sent directly from the service provider you selected (Pudo or Fastway) to the email address provided at checkout.


Important Notes

  • Please ensure your contact details and selected locker/address are 100% correct to avoid any delays.

  • Once an item is with the courier, delivery times are subject to their specific network schedules.

What is your return policy?

Returns & Exchanges Policy

At Thrifty Ways, we curate a collection of high-quality preloved and vintage streetwear. Due to the unique and limited nature of our inventory, all sales are final. We do not offer returns or exchanges for "change of mind" or fit preference.

We only accept returns under the following two strictly defined conditions:

1. Incorrect Sizing Disclosure

Vintage garments often fit differently than modern retail standards. For every item, we provide the Label Size (as found on the tag) and a Recommended Size (how it actually fits today). A return will only be considered if:

  • The Label Size or Recommended Size stated in the product listing is found to be incorrect (e.g., the listing stated "Recommended Size: Large" but the item fits like a Small).

2. Serious Undisclosed Damage

By nature, preloved clothing may show signs of wear. We take great care to describe the condition of every item. A return will only be considered if:

  • The item has a serious defect (such as a large tear, broken zipper, or major permanent stain) that was not mentioned in the description or visible in the product photos.

  • Note: Minor signs of wear or small marks consistent with the age of the garment do not qualify as serious undisclosed damage.


How to Request a Return

If you believe your item meets the criteria above, please follow these steps:

  1. Notify us within 48 hours of receiving your package via email.

  2. Include your Order Number and clear photos of the incorrect size or the undisclosed damage.

  3. Return Shipping Window: Once a return agreement has been reached between the customer and Thrifty Ways, the item must be shipped back within 3 days. You must provide us with a tracking number as proof of shipment within this timeframe.

Refunds

Once we receive and inspect the returned item to ensure it is in its original "as-sent" condition, we will process your refund to your original payment method. Please note that shipping costs are non-refundable unless the error was entirely on our part.

Do you offer international shipping?

International Shipping Policy

We are excited to offer international shipping to our customers worldwide. To ensure the most accurate and fair pricing for your location, we handle international logistics via a two-step process:

  • Step 1: Secure Your Item Purchase your item through our website as usual. At checkout, you may complete the payment for the item without selecting a delivery option.

  • Step 2: Arrange Shipping via WhatsApp Once your order is placed, you are required to send us a WhatsApp message with your order number and full international delivery details.

  • Step 3: Shipping Payment We will provide you with a shipping quote based on your specific location. Payment for international delivery can be made securely via PayPal.


Important Notes for International Buyers

  • Items will be dispatched once the shipping invoice has been settled via PayPal.

  • Please be aware that international orders may be subject to local import duties and taxes. These charges are the responsibility of the recipient.

  • Tracking information will be provided as soon as the package is processed by the international courier.

What payment methods do you accept?

Payment Methods

We offer a variety of secure and flexible payment options to make your shopping experience as smooth as possible:

Website Payments

When checking out online, you can choose from the following secure payment gateways:

  • Yoko: For secure instant card payments.

  • Happy Pay: Shop now and pay later with interest-free installments.

  • Payflex: Flexible, interest-free payment plans.

WhatsApp Purchases

For orders placed via WhatsApp, we accept:

  • EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer): Items will be shipped the same day once payment is made and proof of payment is shared.

In-Store Payments

If you are visiting us at our physical location, we offer:

  • Card: We accept all major debit and credit cards via our in-store terminal.

  • Cash: Physical cash payments are welcome.


Important Information

  • Please ensure that for EFT payments, you use your Full Name as the payment reference to avoid any delays in processing your shipment.

  • Orders will only be dispatched or released once payment has been fully confirmed.

How do I track my order?

Tracking Your Order

Once your package has been scanned into the courier system, you will receive your tracking details directly from the service provider you selected (Pudo or Fastway).

  • Email Notifications: All tracking information will be sent to the email address you provided at checkout.

  • Check Your Spam: If you do not see a tracking email in your inbox shortly after your order is processed, please be sure to check your Spam/Junk folder, as these automated notifications are sometimes filtered there by mistake.

  • Direct Tracking: You can use the tracking number provided in those emails on the respective courier’s website to follow your parcel's journey.


Important Notes

  • Please ensure your contact details and selected locker or delivery address are 100% correct to avoid any delays.

  • Once an item is with the courier, delivery times are subject to their specific network schedules.

How do I contact customer service if I have a question or concern?

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your order, shipping, or an item's condition, please reach out to us directly:

  • WhatsApp Support: Contact us at 072 562 313.

  • Response Times: We aim to get back to all messages as quickly as possible during business hours.

  • Providing Context: To help us assist you faster, please include your Full Name or Order Number when messaging about an existing purchase.


A Quick Note on Tracking

Before reaching out about a missing tracking link, please remember to check your Spam/Junk folder for the automated email from your selected courier (Pudo or Fastway).