Shipping policy

SHIPPING, DELIVERY AND LOGISTICS POLICY

African Containers Hub Pty Ltd
Trading as African Containers Hub

Effective Date: 9 September 2026
Website: africancontainershub.co.za

Telephone: 031 256 3376
WhatsApp: 063 726 0423
Sales: sales@africancontainershub.co.za
Support: support@africancontainershub.co.za
Complaints: complaints@africancontainershub.co.za

Operating / facility location: Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, 3370, South Africa
Coordinates: 28.54622° S, 29.80378° E

1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This Shipping, Delivery and Logistics Policy (“Shipping Policy”) governs the delivery, transportation, offloading, positioning, collection and related logistics arrangements for products and services supplied by African Containers Hub Pty Ltd, trading as African Containers Hub (“African Containers Hub”, “ACH”, “we”, “us” or “our”).

ACH supplies large, heavy and frequently specialised products. Shipping a container is therefore materially different from ordinary parcel or courier delivery.

Delivery may involve:

• specialised trucks;
• container transport equipment;
• flatbed or skeletal trailers;
• side-loader vehicles;
• hiab/crane-equipped vehicles;
• cranes;
• lifting equipment;
• specialised offloading;
• positioning;
• route planning;
• access assessment; and
• third-party logistics providers.

This Policy is intended to provide customers with a clear framework for:

• delivery quotations;
• delivery charges;
• delivery areas;
• lead times;
• site requirements;
• customer responsibilities;
• transport;
• offloading;
• positioning;
• delivery acceptance;
• damage reporting;
• delays;
• failed delivery;
• re-delivery;
• access problems;
• custom projects;
• third-party logistics providers; and
• delivery-related complaints.

Nothing in this Policy excludes, restricts, waives or diminishes any right that cannot lawfully be excluded under South African law.

The Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (“CPA”) establishes statutory requirements concerning delivery of goods and performance of services, including delivery at the agreed place and time and remedies in specified circumstances. 

2. NATURE OF ACH DELIVERY

ACH does not treat all deliveries as standard courier deliveries.

The final delivery method depends upon:

• the type of container;
• container dimensions;
• container weight;
• quantity;
• destination;
• distance;
• road network;
• site access;
• terrain;
• available transport equipment;
• offloading requirements;
• positioning requirements;
• customer site conditions;
• municipal or other restrictions; and
• the requirements contained in the accepted quotation.

A delivery quotation therefore forms an important part of the customer’s transaction.

3. DELIVERY AREAS

ACH may arrange delivery to destinations within South Africa, subject to:

• product availability;
• transport availability;
• road accessibility;
• destination feasibility;
• lawful transport requirements;
• customer site suitability; and
• the applicable quotation.

Certain remote, restricted, difficult-to-access or unusually distant locations may require an individually calculated delivery quotation.

Delivery availability does not necessarily mean that every type of container or delivery equipment can be transported to every location.

4. DELIVERY QUOTATIONS

Where delivery is not included in the displayed product price, ACH may provide a separate delivery quotation.

A delivery quotation may take into account:

• collection point;
• destination;
• road distance;
• container size;
• number of containers;
• transport equipment;
• fuel;
• tolls;
• loading;
• offloading;
• positioning;
• crane requirements;
• route restrictions;
• site conditions;
• waiting time;
• permits where required;
• specialist equipment; and
• other reasonably foreseeable logistics costs.

The quotation will identify the scope of delivery to the extent reasonably practicable.

5. DELIVERY PRICE IS DESTINATION-SPECIFIC

A displayed product price should not be interpreted as automatically including delivery unless expressly stated.

Delivery costs may vary significantly between customers because the logistics requirements of one destination may differ substantially from another.

For example, the delivery cost of a container to a readily accessible urban site may differ materially from delivery to:

• a rural property;
• a construction site;
• a remote location;
• a steep site;
• a restricted-access property;
• a site requiring a crane;
• a site requiring special positioning; or
• a destination requiring additional transport equipment.

6. DELIVERY INFORMATION REQUIRED FROM THE CUSTOMER

Before finalising delivery arrangements, ACH may require:

• full delivery location;
• customer name;
• site contact person;
• telephone number;
• alternative contact number;
• site access information;
• road information;
• gate dimensions;
• site photographs;
• site videos;
• delivery instructions;
• container positioning requirements;
• offloading requirements;
• preferred delivery date;
• site operating hours;
• known access restrictions; and
• other information reasonably required for safe delivery.

The customer is responsible for ensuring that information supplied to ACH is materially accurate.

7. SITE ASSESSMENT

For certain deliveries, ACH may require a site assessment before confirming the final logistics arrangement.

A site assessment may be performed using:

• customer-supplied photographs;
• videos;
• maps;
• satellite imagery;
• telephone or electronic discussions;
• physical inspection;
• information supplied by the customer; or
• a logistics provider’s assessment.

A site assessment may identify:

• access limitations;
• turning requirements;
• overhead obstructions;
• road conditions;
• slopes;
• soft ground;
• loading or unloading requirements;
• crane requirements;
• positioning constraints; and
• other delivery risks.

8. CUSTOMER SITE ACCESS

The customer must ensure that the delivery vehicle and required equipment can safely access the agreed delivery location.

The customer should consider:

• road width;
• road surface;
• turning radius;
• gradients;
• bridges;
• culverts;
• overhead cables;
• trees;
• buildings;
• walls;
• gates;
• fences;
• narrow passages;
• parked vehicles;
• construction equipment;
• trenches;
• excavations;
• unstable ground; and
• other physical obstructions.

Where the customer is uncertain about access, the customer should provide photographs or video before delivery is scheduled.

9. SITE PREPARATION

The customer is responsible for preparing the intended placement area unless site preparation has expressly been included in the quotation.

The placement area should be:

• accessible;
• reasonably level where required;
• sufficiently stable;
• free of avoidable obstructions;
• suitable for the intended container;
• capable of supporting the container and its intended use; and
• ready at the agreed delivery time.

Where foundations, slabs, supports, concrete, paving or other structural preparation are required, these should be completed before delivery unless ACH has expressly agreed to provide that work.

10. CUSTOMER’S LEGAL AUTHORITY OVER THE SITE

The customer represents that they have the necessary authority to arrange delivery to the nominated location.

The customer is responsible for obtaining any permission required from:

• the property owner;
• landlord;
• body corporate;
• homeowners’ association;
• municipality;
• road authority;
• site manager;
• construction manager; or
• another relevant authority.

ACH is not responsible for disputes concerning a customer’s authority to place a container on a property.

11. MUNICIPAL, ZONING AND BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

The customer is responsible for determining whether the placement or intended use of a container requires:

• municipal approval;
• zoning approval;
• building-plan approval;
• landlord consent;
• homeowners’ association approval;
• environmental approval;
• health approval;
• fire-safety approval;
• engineering approval; or
• another statutory consent.

ACH may provide reasonable product information but does not guarantee that a customer’s intended placement or use is legally authorised.

12. DELIVERY DATES

Where a delivery date is agreed, ACH will make reasonable efforts to deliver on the agreed date.

The applicable delivery commitment will be determined by:

• the accepted quotation;
• order confirmation;
• delivery agreement; or
• other written transaction record.

The CPA generally requires a supplier to deliver goods or perform services at the agreed date, time and place, or otherwise within a reasonable period where no specific arrangement applies. 

13. DELIVERY TIME WINDOWS

A delivery date does not necessarily mean a precise arrival minute.

Unless a specific appointment time has been expressly confirmed, delivery may occur within a reasonable operational window.

Actual arrival may be affected by:

• traffic;
• loading delays;
• route restrictions;
• previous deliveries;
• weather;
• road closures;
• transport conditions;
• customer-site readiness;
• vehicle availability;
• offloading requirements; and
• unforeseen logistics circumstances.

Where a precise time is operationally critical, the customer should request a specific delivery appointment before accepting the delivery arrangement.

14. LEAD TIMES

Lead times vary according to the nature of the order.

Standard stock containers

Delivery may be arranged after:

• product availability is confirmed;
• payment requirements are satisfied; and
• delivery logistics have been agreed.

Custom containers

Custom projects may require additional time for:

• design;
• specification;
• procurement;
• fabrication;
• inspection;
• finishing;
• quality control;
• loading; and
• delivery scheduling.

The applicable quotation or project schedule will provide the best indication of the expected timeframe.

15. CUSTOM-BUILD DELIVERY

Custom-built containers may have delivery dates different from standard stock containers.

The delivery schedule may depend on:

• customer approval of specifications;
• design approval;
• procurement;
• material availability;
• fabrication;
• customer-requested variations;
• specialist subcontractors;
• electrical or plumbing work;
• inspection;
• payment milestones; and
• site readiness.

A customer-requested change may require a revised delivery date.

16. DELIVERY DEPENDENT ON PAYMENT

Where the quotation requires payment before dispatch, ACH may not release the goods for delivery until the required payment has successfully cleared.

Where a deposit and balance structure applies, the quotation or invoice will determine the applicable payment milestones.

A payment attempt that has not settled does not constitute cleared payment.

17. THIRD-PARTY TRANSPORT PROVIDERS

ACH may use independent or specialist logistics providers.

Such providers may perform:

• collection;
• loading;
• transportation;
• delivery;
• offloading;
• positioning; and
• related logistics services.

The use of a third-party transport provider does not transfer ACH’s underlying contractual responsibilities to the customer where ACH remains responsible under the applicable agreement or law.

Customers may be contacted by an authorised logistics provider for delivery coordination.

18. DELIVERY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT

The vehicle used for delivery will depend upon the container and site requirements.

Possible equipment includes:

• standard container transport vehicles;
• flatbed trailers;
• skeletal trailers;
• side-loaders;
• crane-equipped trucks;
• Hiab-type lifting equipment;
• mobile cranes;
• specialised lifting equipment; and
• other suitable transport equipment.

The equipment selected remains subject to availability and site suitability.

19. OFFLOADING

Offloading is not automatically included in every delivery.

Where offloading is included, the quotation should specify the intended method or scope where reasonably practicable.

Offloading may require:

• side-loader equipment;
• crane equipment;
• specialised lifting equipment;
• sufficient clearance;
• stable ground;
• appropriate access; and
• safe positioning space.

Where the customer requires specialised offloading, that requirement must be disclosed before the delivery quotation is finalised.

20. POSITIONING

“Positioning” means placing the container at the agreed location after delivery, where that service has been included.

Unless expressly agreed, delivery does not necessarily include:

• dragging a container across a property;
• moving a container through buildings;
• dismantling walls;
• removing fences;
• cutting trees;
• removing power lines;
• earthworks;
• foundation construction;
• civil works; or
• other site preparation.

Where such work is required, it must be agreed separately and may incur additional costs.

21. CRANE DELIVERY

Where crane delivery is required, the customer must ensure sufficient space for:

• crane positioning;
• outriggers;
• lifting operations;
• vehicle access;
• load swing;
• safe placement; and
• exclusion zones.

The customer is responsible for disclosing overhead and underground hazards known to them.

ACH or its logistics provider may refuse to conduct a lift where the proposed operation is unsafe.

22. SAFETY HAS PRIORITY

ACH and its logistics providers will not knowingly conduct a delivery or lifting operation that presents an unreasonable risk to:

• people;
• property;
• vehicles;
• buildings;
• utilities;
• the container;
• transport equipment; or
• surrounding infrastructure.

Where safe delivery is impossible because of site conditions, delivery may be postponed until the conditions are reasonably safe.

23. OVERHEAD POWER LINES AND UTILITIES

Customers must identify known:

• electrical lines;
• telecommunications lines;
• water pipes;
• gas lines;
• underground services;
• drainage systems; and
• other utilities

that may affect delivery or placement.

The customer must not instruct a delivery team to perform an unsafe manoeuvre around known hazards.

24. GATES, WALLS AND PROPERTY ACCESS

The customer must ensure that gates, entrances and access points are sufficiently suitable for the agreed delivery method.

ACH is not responsible for damage caused solely by an undisclosed access restriction where the customer provided materially inaccurate or incomplete access information.

Where an access obstacle is identified before delivery, ACH may propose:

• an alternative vehicle;
• an alternative route;
• alternative positioning;
• specialist equipment;
• additional charges; or
• rescheduling.

25. REMOTE AND DIFFICULT-ACCESS LOCATIONS

Additional logistics charges may apply to locations involving:

• long distances from suitable roads;
• poor road conditions;
• gravel or unsealed roads;
• steep terrain;
• narrow access;
• restricted turning areas;
• difficult loading conditions;
• specialist lifting requirements;
• additional travel;
• overnight transport;
• permits; or
• other exceptional requirements.

Any material additional charge should be communicated before it is incurred where reasonably practicable.

26. RURAL DELIVERY

Rural delivery is available subject to feasibility.

Customers should provide:

• a precise destination;
• access-route information;
• site photographs;
• road information;
• gate dimensions;
• turning information; and
• positioning requirements.

Where a standard mapping address does not accurately identify the delivery point, ACH may require a location pin or GPS coordinates.

27. DELIVERY TO CONSTRUCTION SITES

For construction sites, the customer must ensure that:

• the site is accessible;
• the delivery route is suitable;
• site personnel can safely coordinate access;
• the placement area is prepared;
• equipment can operate safely;
• temporary works do not obstruct delivery; and
• required site permissions have been obtained.

Construction-site deliveries may be subject to additional safety procedures.

28. DELIVERY TO COMMERCIAL PREMISES

For commercial premises, the customer should confirm:

• delivery hours;
• loading-bay restrictions;
• security requirements;
• access procedures;
• height restrictions;
• vehicle restrictions;
• site induction requirements; and
• contact-person requirements.

Where a delivery requires special access permission, the customer is responsible for obtaining that permission unless otherwise agreed.

29. CUSTOMER OR AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE

The customer should ensure that an authorised person is available to receive the delivery where required.

That person may be required to:

• confirm the delivery location;
• provide access;
• identify the placement area;
• inspect the container;
• record visible damage;
• sign delivery documentation; and
• communicate site instructions.

30. DELIVERY INSPECTION

The customer should inspect the container at delivery to the extent reasonably practicable.

The inspection may include:

• container identity;
• size;
• visible condition;
• doors;
• locks;
• exterior condition;
• interior condition;
• agreed modifications;
• visible damage; and
• major discrepancies against the accepted specification.

The customer may use photographs or video to document the condition.

The CPA recognises a consumer’s right, in applicable circumstances, to examine goods and establishes specific rules concerning delivery and acceptance. 

31. DELIVERY DOCUMENTATION

Delivery documentation may include:

• delivery note;
• proof of delivery;
• electronic delivery confirmation;
• photographs;
• container identification;
• customer signature;
• digital confirmation; or
• other evidence of delivery.

The absence of a physical signature does not necessarily mean delivery did not occur where other reliable evidence establishes delivery.

32. VISIBLE DELIVERY DAMAGE

Where visible damage is discovered at delivery, the customer should:

1. photograph the damage;
2. record the issue on the delivery documentation where possible;
3. notify the delivery representative;
4. notify ACH promptly; and
5. retain the evidence.

Examples include:

• significant new dents;
• damaged doors;
• damaged locks;
• damaged modifications;
• structural damage;
• broken components;
• missing accessories; or
• other material visible damage.

33. LATENT DAMAGE OR DEFECTS

Not all defects can reasonably be identified during delivery.

If a defect becomes apparent after delivery, the customer should notify ACH promptly after discovery.

The customer should provide:

• photographs;
• videos;
• order details;
• delivery information;
• description of the issue; and
• any other reasonably relevant evidence.

The customer’s statutory rights remain unaffected.

34. DELIVERY OF INCORRECT GOODS

If ACH delivers:

• the wrong container;
• the wrong size;
• the wrong quantity;
• materially incorrect modifications;
• a materially different specification; or
• goods that do not correspond to the agreed description,

the customer should contact ACH promptly.

ACH will investigate and, where appropriate, arrange:

• correction;
• replacement;
• collection;
• repair;
• refund; or
• another lawful remedy.

The CPA contains specific protections concerning incorrect deliveries, excess goods and goods that do not correspond with the agreed description. 

35. FAILED DELIVERY

A delivery may be classified as unsuccessful where the transport provider cannot reasonably complete delivery because:

• the site is inaccessible;
• the road is unsafe;
• the customer is unavailable;
• the customer has not prepared the site;
• the required equipment cannot operate safely;
• the destination has changed;
• access information was materially inaccurate;
• payment requirements remain outstanding; or
• another customer-controlled condition prevents delivery.

ACH will seek to communicate the reason for the failed delivery.

36. RE-DELIVERY

Where a failed delivery is caused by a customer-controlled circumstance, a reasonable re-delivery charge may apply where legally permissible.

Examples may include:

• no authorised person available;
• blocked access;
• incorrect address;
• incorrect GPS location;
• unavailable site;
• inadequate access;
• unsafe site conditions;
• unprepared placement area;
• customer-requested postponement; or
• undisclosed access restrictions.

Where the failure was caused by ACH or its logistics provider, ACH will not improperly transfer the resulting cost to the customer.

37. CUSTOMER-REQUESTED DELIVERY RESCHEDULING

Customers should provide reasonable notice when requesting a change to an agreed delivery date.

A change may affect:

• transport availability;
• delivery cost;
• project timing;
• storage;
• vehicle allocation;
• crane bookings; and
• other logistics arrangements.

Where a customer requests a change after specialist logistics have been booked, reasonable costs may apply where legally permissible and properly disclosed.

38. DELIVERY CANCELLATION

A customer may request cancellation of delivery.

The effect of cancellation depends upon:

• whether the order itself has been cancelled;
• whether the goods have already been dispatched;
• whether transport has already been booked;
• whether the product is custom;
• applicable statutory rights; and
• the applicable Return, Refund, Cancellation and Replacement Policy.

Cancellation of transport does not automatically constitute cancellation of the underlying product order.

39. DELIVERY AND CUSTOMER REFUSAL

A customer should not refuse delivery arbitrarily where the goods conform to the accepted order and the delivery complies with the agreement.

However, statutory rights concerning:

• defective goods;
• unsafe goods;
• incorrect goods;
• goods materially different from the description;
• applicable cooling-off rights; or
• other protected circumstances

remain unaffected.

Where a customer intends to reject delivery, the customer should explain the reason to the delivery representative and contact ACH immediately.

40. UNSOLICITED GOODS OR SERVICES

ACH will not intentionally deliver goods or perform services without a lawful basis.

Where a customer receives goods or services that were not authorised, the customer’s statutory rights concerning unsolicited goods or services remain applicable.

The CPA contains specific protections concerning unsolicited goods and services. 

41. DELIVERY OF MULTIPLE CONTAINERS

Where an order involves multiple containers, ACH may:

• deliver all units together;
• deliver in stages;
• use multiple vehicles; or
• schedule separate delivery dates.

The applicable quotation or order confirmation will determine the expected arrangement.

Where a partial delivery occurs, ACH will communicate the remaining delivery arrangements where reasonably practicable.

42. PARTIAL DELIVERY

A partial delivery may occur where:

• stock is available at different times;
• custom components have different completion dates;
• logistics capacity requires staged delivery;
• the customer requests staged delivery; or
• another operational reason makes staged delivery appropriate.

A partial delivery does not necessarily constitute a breach if the arrangement was agreed or reasonably permitted by the transaction.

Where the customer is entitled to reject or cancel because of partial delivery, the applicable statutory rights will apply.

43. DELIVERY OF ACCESSORIES OR COMPONENTS

Accessories may be delivered:

• with the container;
• separately;
• through a courier;
• through a logistics provider; or
• at another agreed time.

Where accessories have separate delivery requirements, the customer will be notified where reasonably practicable.

44. STORAGE BEFORE DELIVERY

Where goods are stored by ACH before delivery, the customer may be responsible for storage charges where:

• the customer requested delayed delivery;
• the customer was not ready to receive the goods;
• the customer caused the delivery delay; or
• the applicable quotation expressly provides for storage.

Storage charges must be lawful and reasonable.

45. DELIVERY AFTER CUSTOM FABRICATION

Custom-built containers may remain at ACH’s facility or another authorised location until:

• fabrication is completed;
• inspection is completed;
• required payment has cleared;
• the customer is ready;
• delivery has been scheduled; and
• site conditions have been confirmed.

46. WEATHER CONDITIONS

Severe weather may affect delivery.

Examples include:

• heavy rainfall;
• flooding;
• strong winds;
• lightning;
• dangerous road conditions;
• unsafe lifting conditions; or
• other conditions creating material safety risks.

Where weather prevents safe delivery, ACH may postpone the delivery and communicate a revised arrangement.

47. ROAD CONDITIONS AND ACCESS RESTRICTIONS

Delivery vehicles may be subject to:

• vehicle weight restrictions;
• height restrictions;
• road closures;
• municipal restrictions;
• temporary traffic restrictions;
• bridge limitations;
• construction zones; and
• other route constraints.

Where a route becomes unsuitable, ACH may identify an alternative route or delivery arrangement.

Additional costs will not be imposed merely because a routine operational adjustment was necessary, unless the customer’s circumstances caused the additional cost.

48. TOLLS, PERMITS AND SPECIAL ROUTE COSTS

Where a particular delivery requires:

• tolls;
• permits;
• escort services;
• special route planning;
• specialist vehicles; or
• other exceptional route costs,

the relevant costs may be included in the delivery quotation.

Where an unexpected legal or regulatory requirement arises after the quotation and materially changes the delivery cost, ACH will communicate the issue before incurring the additional cost where reasonably practicable.

49. DELIVERY TO RESTRICTED AREAS

Some areas may be subject to:

• security restrictions;
• municipal restrictions;
• vehicle restrictions;
• access permits;
• environmental restrictions;
• private-property rules; or
• other controls.

The customer is responsible for providing necessary access permissions unless ACH has expressly undertaken to obtain them.

50. DELIVERY TO THIRD-PARTY PROPERTY

If the customer requests delivery to a location owned or controlled by another person, the customer must ensure that the third party has authorised the delivery.

ACH may request confirmation of authority where reasonably necessary.

51. CHANGE OF DELIVERY ADDRESS

The customer must notify ACH as soon as possible if the delivery address changes.

A change of address may affect:

• delivery price;
• route;
• equipment;
• timing;
• permits;
• access;
• insurance;
• site suitability; and
• logistics arrangements.

ACH may require a revised quotation before delivering to the new destination.

52. GPS COORDINATES AND LOCATION PINS

Where a delivery site is difficult to identify using a conventional street address, ACH may request:

• GPS coordinates;
• a Google Maps pin;
• a dropped map pin;
• site photographs;
• access-road photographs; or
• another reliable location reference.

A customer is responsible for verifying that the location information supplied corresponds to the intended delivery point.

53. DELIVERY TO AREAS WITHOUT FORMAL STREET ADDRESSES

Where a location does not have a conventional street address, delivery may still be possible if the customer supplies sufficiently accurate location and access information.

The customer may be required to provide:

• GPS coordinates;
• nearest recognised landmark;
• access-road details;
• site contact;
• photographs; and
• route instructions.

ACH will assess feasibility before confirming delivery.

54. DELIVERY ACCEPTANCE DOES NOT WAIVE STATUTORY RIGHTS

Signing a delivery note or acknowledging receipt does not automatically waive a statutory right concerning a defect that could not reasonably have been discovered at delivery.

Similarly, a delivery confirmation does not prevent a customer from notifying ACH of a legitimate latent defect.

55. CUSTOMER’S DUTY TO INSPECT

Customers should inspect the goods within a reasonable opportunity after delivery.

For large container products, the inspection should reasonably consider:

• external condition;
• doors;
• locks;
• visible structural condition;
• agreed modifications;
• internal condition;
• electrical installations where included;
• plumbing where included;
• accessories; and
• conformity with the agreed specification.

56. CONTAINER IDENTIFICATION

Where a specific container has been allocated, ACH may record:

• container number;
• serial/reference number;
• photographs;
• condition;
• specifications;
• modifications; and
• delivery information.

Customers should retain this information for future correspondence.

57. DELIVERY OF USED CONTAINERS

Used containers may show reasonable evidence of prior use.

Delivery inspection should therefore distinguish between:

• ordinary disclosed used condition; and
• new damage or material non-conformity.

Photographs may be used to establish the condition of a specific container before dispatch.

58. DELIVERY OF CUSTOM CONTAINERS

Custom containers may require special handling because of:

• additional weight;
• internal fittings;
• electrical systems;
• plumbing;
• furniture;
• equipment;
• structural modifications;
• windows and doors;
• external additions; or
• other modifications.

The delivery equipment must therefore be appropriate to the finished configuration.

59. LOADING AND SECUREMENT

ACH or its authorised logistics provider will determine an appropriate loading and transport method having regard to the container and applicable transport requirements.

Customers must not interfere with loading or securement operations unless expressly authorised.

60. SAFETY DURING DELIVERY

Customers and third parties must remain clear of:

• moving vehicles;
• lifting equipment;
• suspended loads;
• loading areas;
• cranes;
• trailers; and
• other hazardous delivery operations.

Only authorised personnel should enter controlled lifting or loading areas.

61. CHILDREN AND UNAUTHORISED PERSONS

Customers must ensure that children, pets and unauthorised persons remain away from active delivery and lifting operations.

ACH and its logistics providers may stop an operation where persons are placed at unreasonable risk.

62. DAMAGE TO CUSTOMER PROPERTY

Where delivery equipment is required to operate on customer property, the customer should identify:

• fragile surfaces;
• underground utilities;
• septic systems;
• drainage;
• paving;
• retaining walls;
• landscaping;
• structures; and
• other potentially vulnerable property.

ACH will take reasonable precautions appropriate to the agreed delivery method.

Where damage results from an undisclosed site condition or a customer instruction, responsibility will be assessed according to the circumstances and applicable law.

63. DELIVERY SERVICE LIMITATIONS

Unless expressly included in writing, delivery does not include:

• demolition;
• removal of walls;
• tree removal;
• electrical-line relocation;
• road construction;
• earthworks;
• foundation construction;
• civil engineering;
• municipal approvals;
• building approvals;
• property clearance;
• removal of existing structures;
• permanent utility connections; or
• unrelated site preparation.

Additional services may be quoted separately.

64. SITE PREPARATION SERVICES

Where ACH expressly agrees to provide site preparation, the scope will be defined in the quotation.

Possible services may include:

• basic positioning preparation;
• foundation preparation;
• levelling;
• support installation;
• civil works; or
• other agreed work.

No site-preparation service should be assumed unless expressly included.

65. INSTALLATION

Where installation is included, the applicable quotation will define the scope.

Installation may include, depending on the project:

• positioning;
• anchoring;
• assembly;
• connection;
• fitting;
• internal installation; or
• other agreed work.

Electrical, plumbing, structural or specialist certification is not automatically included unless expressly stated.

66. DELIVERY OF CONTAINER-BASED BUILDINGS

Where ACH supplies a container-based building, office, shop, workshop, café, ablution facility or similar structure, delivery may be only one component of the overall project.

The customer should distinguish between:

• manufacturing;
• transportation;
• offloading;
• positioning;
• installation;
• utility connection;
• commissioning;
• certification; and
• municipal approval.

The applicable quotation will identify which components ACH has undertaken to provide.

67. DELIVERY AND PAYMENT-PROCESSING RECORDS

Where payment is made electronically, ACH may use payment records to determine whether an order is ready for dispatch.

A payment processor’s transaction reference may be required for:

• order matching;
• payment verification;
• refund processing; or
• dispute resolution.

68. DELIVERY COMMUNICATIONS

ACH may communicate delivery arrangements through:

• email;
• telephone;
• WhatsApp;
• SMS;
• website notifications; or
• an authorised logistics provider.

Customers should ensure that contact information is current.

Customers should also monitor communications around the agreed delivery date.

69. CUSTOMER NON-RESPONSE

Where ACH cannot obtain required information necessary for safe delivery, ACH may postpone dispatch until the required information is received.

Examples include:

• missing site location;
• missing access information;
• missing contact person;
• unresolved payment;
• unclear positioning instructions; or
• missing site permission.

70. FAILED CONTACT AT DELIVERY

If a driver or logistics provider cannot contact the designated site representative, the delivery may be delayed or returned to the transport facility.

Any additional cost will be assessed according to the reason for the failed delivery and the applicable quotation.

71. STORAGE FOLLOWING FAILED DELIVERY

Where a delivery fails for a customer-controlled reason, the container may need to be stored temporarily.

Reasonable storage charges may apply where legally permissible.

ACH will communicate the applicable arrangement and seek to minimise avoidable costs.

72. REFUNDS ARISING FROM DELIVERY FAILURE

Where ACH materially fails to deliver in accordance with the agreement and the customer is legally entitled to cancel or obtain a refund, the applicable remedy will be provided in accordance with:

• the transaction;
• the Return, Refund, Cancellation and Replacement Policy; and
• applicable South African law.

The CPA contains specific remedies concerning delivery at an incorrect place, date or time and other delivery failures. 

73. ELECTRONIC COMMERCE DELIVERY DISCLOSURES

Where a transaction is concluded electronically, ACH will provide or make available information concerning delivery in accordance with applicable electronic-commerce law.

ECTA requires suppliers in covered electronic transactions to provide consumers with information including the time within which goods will be dispatched or delivered and the supplier’s return, exchange and refund policy. 

74. DELIVERY OF GOODS PURCHASED ONLINE

An online order does not necessarily mean that delivery is automatically calculated or included.

Where delivery depends upon the destination, ACH may require the customer to provide delivery information before the final delivery price is confirmed.

For certain products, the website may provide:

• a standard delivery indication;
• a delivery quotation request;
• a destination-based delivery calculation; or
• a requirement to contact ACH.

75. DELIVERY QUOTE ACCURACY

ACH will calculate delivery using information reasonably available at the time of quotation.

If the customer’s actual site conditions differ materially from the information supplied, the delivery requirements may need to be reassessed.

Where possible, ACH will notify the customer before additional charges are incurred.

76. NO UNAUTHORISED SITE WORK

A delivery driver or logistics provider is not authorised to perform construction, demolition, electrical, plumbing, civil or other unrelated work merely because the customer requests it at the delivery site.

Additional work requires appropriate authorisation and, where applicable, a separate quotation.

77. DELIVERY OF HAZARDOUS OR SPECIALISED CONTENT

Customers must disclose material information where a container contains or will contain hazardous, regulated or unusually heavy materials that materially affect transport or handling.

ACH may refuse transportation where the proposed contents or handling requirements are unlawful or unsafe.

78. EMPTY CONTAINER DELIVERY

Where an empty container is supplied, the customer should ensure that:

• the placement area is ready;
• access is clear;
• lifting equipment can operate;
• the intended use is suitable; and
• any required approvals have been obtained.

79. LOADED CONTAINER DELIVERY

Where a container is delivered with goods or equipment inside it, the additional weight and transport requirements may materially affect the delivery.

The customer must accurately disclose material loading information where requested.

80. WEIGHT AND LOAD CONSIDERATIONS

Customers must not overload containers or transport equipment.

Where a customer requests delivery of a loaded container, ACH may require information about the contents and estimated weight.

Transport arrangements may be changed if the proposed load is unsafe or legally unsuitable.

81. DELIVERY OF CONTAINERS WITH CUSTOMER-PROVIDED EQUIPMENT

Where a customer supplies equipment or components to be installed into a container before delivery, the customer must provide accurate specifications and ensure that the equipment is suitable for installation.

Any customer-supplied item may affect:

• weight;
• balance;
• structural requirements;
• transport;
• installation;
• safety; and
• delivery.

82. DELIVERY INSURANCE AND LOSS

ACH may maintain appropriate commercial arrangements with logistics providers and insurers.

The existence or scope of any insurance arrangement does not alter the customer’s statutory rights.

Where loss or damage occurs during transport, ACH will investigate and determine the appropriate remedy in accordance with the transaction and applicable law.

83. DELIVERY CLAIMS

A delivery claim should contain, where applicable:

• order number;
• invoice number;
• container number;
• delivery date;
• delivery location;
• photographs;
• videos;
• delivery documentation;
• description of damage;
• description of missing items; and
• requested remedy.

Claims should be submitted to:

support@africancontainershub.co.za

Formal complaints may be submitted to:

complaints@africancontainershub.co.za

84. DELIVERY DISPUTES

ACH will investigate delivery disputes using available evidence, which may include:

• quotations;
• order confirmations;
• delivery notes;
• GPS/location records;
• photographs;
• videos;
• driver reports;
• logistics-provider records;
• customer communications;
• payment records; and
• site information.

The purpose of the investigation is to establish what was agreed, what occurred and what remedy is appropriate.

85. DELIVERY AND RETURNS

Delivery arrangements must be read together with the Return, Refund, Cancellation and Replacement Policy.

A return of a container may require specialised transport.

Customers must not independently arrange removal or return of a container without contacting ACH first where the return involves ACH’s logistics responsibility or could create a safety or liability issue.

86. COLLECTION BY CUSTOMER

Where customer collection is permitted, the customer must arrange suitable transport and comply with reasonable collection instructions.

ACH may require:

• collection appointment;
• suitable vehicle;
• proof of authority;
• container identification;
• payment clearance; and
• compliance with applicable safety requirements.

87. COLLECTION FROM ACH FACILITY

Collection is not available for every product or project.

Where collection is approved, the customer assumes responsibility for transport arrangements from the agreed collection point, subject to applicable law and the terms of the transaction.

88. DELIVERY RECORD RETENTION

ACH may retain delivery-related records for purposes including:

• accounting;
• customer service;
• dispute resolution;
• fraud prevention;
• payment-provider requirements;
• legal compliance;
• warranty administration; and
• operational records.

Customers should retain their own transaction records.

89. POLICY AND STATUTORY RIGHTS

This Policy is not intended to replace the CPA, ECTA or other applicable South African legislation.

Where a mandatory legal provision provides the customer with a right or remedy inconsistent with this Policy, the mandatory legal provision will prevail.

The CPA is expressly intended to establish national norms and standards for consumer protection and consumer information. 

90. COMPLAINTS AND ESCALATION

Customers should first contact ACH concerning delivery problems.

Support:
support@africancontainershub.co.za

Complaints:
complaints@africancontainershub.co.za

Telephone:
031 256 3376

WhatsApp:
063 726 0423

A complaint should include sufficient information to allow ACH to identify the transaction and investigate the issue.

Nothing in this process prevents a customer from exercising a statutory right to approach an appropriate regulatory authority, consumer-protection body, alternative dispute-resolution mechanism or court.

91. GOVERNING LAW

This Shipping Policy is governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.

Subject to mandatory consumer-protection and jurisdictional provisions, disputes concerning delivery will be subject to the jurisdiction of the competent courts of South Africa.

92. CHANGES TO THIS SHIPPING POLICY

ACH may amend this Policy when reasonably necessary to reflect:

• changes in legislation;
• regulatory requirements;
• logistics arrangements;
• payment-provider requirements;
• product changes;
• operational changes;
• safety requirements; or
• improvements to customer procedures.

The version applicable to a transaction will ordinarily be the version in effect when the relevant transaction was concluded, subject to mandatory law.

93. FINAL DELIVERY PRINCIPLES

ACH’s delivery process is based on the following principles:

1. The customer must know what is being delivered.
2. The customer must know where it is being delivered.
3. The customer must know the applicable delivery cost or how that cost will be determined.
4. The customer must provide accurate site and access information.
5. Delivery must be performed safely.
6. Custom and specialised deliveries require additional planning.
7. Offloading and positioning are included only where agreed.
8. Material delivery delays should be communicated.
9. Customers should inspect goods upon delivery where reasonably possible.
10. Visible damage should be documented immediately.
11. Latent defects remain subject to applicable statutory and contractual remedies.
12. ACH will not use this Policy to remove mandatory consumer rights.
13. Delivery-related refunds and cancellations are governed together with the Return, Refund, Cancellation and Replacement Policy.
14. Payment through a third-party payment provider does not transfer ACH’s underlying responsibility for fulfilment.
15. Safety takes precedence over completing an unsafe delivery.

94. BUSINESS AND DELIVERY CONTACT INFORMATION

African Containers Hub Pty Ltd
Trading as African Containers Hub

Website: africancontainershub.co.za

Telephone: 031 256 3376
WhatsApp: 063 726 0423

Sales: sales@africancontainershub.co.za
Support: support@africancontainershub.co.za
Complaints: complaints@africancontainershub.co.za
Administration: admin@africancontainershub.co.za

Operating / facility location:
Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, 3370, South Africa

Coordinates:
28.54622° S, 29.80378° E

95. CUSTOMER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By requesting, accepting or arranging delivery through African Containers Hub, the customer acknowledges that:

• container transportation is specialised logistics;
• delivery costs may depend on destination and site conditions;
• accurate delivery information is essential;
• the customer is responsible for providing reasonable access;
• offloading and positioning must be expressly agreed where applicable;
• custom projects may have specialised delivery requirements;
• delivery dates are subject to the agreed transaction and applicable operational circumstances;
• the customer should inspect the goods upon delivery where reasonably practicable;
• delivery damage or discrepancies should be reported promptly;
• statutory consumer rights remain protected;
• returns and refunds are governed by the applicable ACH Return, Refund, Cancellation and Replacement Policy; and
• ACH will seek to provide delivery in a safe, transparent and commercially reasonable manner consistent with the customer’s agreement and applicable South African law.

African Containers Hub Pty Ltd
Trading as African Containers Hub