1. Processing Times

Standard Orders

Orders for in-stock items typically process within 1–2 business days after payment confirmation.
Orders placed after midday AEST may begin processing the following business day.
During peak seasons or promotional periods, processing times may extend by an additional 1–2 business days.

Custom Orders

Custom packaging orders require additional processing time, generally 10–15 business days, depending on complexity and quantity.
Actual production times may vary if our production capacity changes significantly, but we will keep you informed of any delays.

2. Shipping Methods & Timeframes

2.1 Domestic Shipping (Australia)

We partner with reliable carriers to deliver orders nationwide. Shipping timeframes are best estimates, not guarantees:

Metro Areas: Economy (5–7 days), Standard (3–5 days), Express (1–2 days)
Regional Areas: Economy (7–10 days), Standard (5–7 days), Express (2–3 days)
Remote Areas: Economy (10–14 days), Standard (7–10 days), Express (3–5 days)

Times are business days from the day your order is dispatched.

2.2 International Shipping

New Zealand: 5–10 business days
Asia-Pacific: 10–15 business days
Rest of World: 15–20 business days

Delivery times vary by country and may be delayed by customs or other circumstances beyond our control.

3. Shipping Costs & Fees

Rate Calculation

Shipping costs are based on total weight/dimensions, delivery destination, and chosen shipping method. Final costs appear at checkout.

Remote or Special Handling

Some carriers charge extra for remote locations or oversized items. We work to secure the best rates but may pass along surcharges if they apply.

Redelivery / Return-to-Sender

If a package is undeliverable or requires redelivery, additional fees may apply. These fees depend on the carrier's policies.

Customs Duties & Taxes

International customers are responsible for all applicable customs fees, duties, and import taxes. We cannot predict these charges.

Free Shipping

We may offer free standard shipping on qualifying orders over a specified amount to certain metro areas. This excludes remote areas, express shipping, and bulky items.

4. Delivery & Risk

Risk Transfer

Ownership and risk transfer to you once the order is handed off to the carrier. We are not liable for any carrier-caused delays or issues after dispatch.

Delivery Attempts

Carriers typically make 1–2 delivery attempts. If undelivered, your package may be held at a depot or returned to us, depending on the carrier's policy. Additional fees may apply for re-delivery.

Authority to Leave

If you authorize the carrier to leave the package without a signature, Total Choice Packaging is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage once the carrier confirms delivery.

Refusal of Split Shipments

We normally ship all items together to minimize multiple shipping charges and confusion. If we must split your order (e.g., at your request), we will confirm any additional costs or arrangements with you first.

5. Damaged, Lost, or Missing Packages

Damaged in Transit

If your package arrives visibly damaged, take photos or video immediately and contact the carrier first to report the issue. Then, notify us with the evidence so we can assist in filing a claim or seeking resolution.

Lost or Stolen After Delivery

Once a carrier confirms delivery (or leaves the package under Authority to Leave), we cannot accept liability for lost or stolen items. We will do our best to help you work with the carrier, but ultimate responsibility lies with the carrier or the recipient.

Claims Deadlines

You must report missing or damaged items within 7 days of the carrier marking the order delivered.

6. Stock & Substitutions

Accurate Stock Levels

We strive to keep real-time stock info updated. If an item becomes unavailable after you order, we will contact you promptly with possible substitutions or updated timelines.

Backordered/Out-of-Stock

When products are backordered, we typically wait to ship all items together unless a special arrangement is made. If you prefer partial shipments, additional shipping fees may apply.

Substitutions

In rare cases, we may offer a close alternative to your ordered item. If you agree to the substitution, we will proceed; otherwise, we can refund or wait for restock.

7. Force Majeure

We are not responsible for delivery delays due to events beyond our reasonable control (e.g., severe weather, natural disasters, strikes, pandemics, or governmental actions). We will notify you of any major disruptions that could impact your order and provide revised delivery estimates if possible.

8. Liability & Consumer Rights

Limited Liability

While we work hard to dispatch orders on time, shipping timeframes are estimates. We do not guarantee exact delivery dates and are not liable for indirect or consequential losses (e.g., lost profits or missed deadlines).

Compliance with Australian Consumer Law

Nothing in this Shipping Policy excludes or limits any consumer rights under Australian Consumer Law that cannot be lawfully excluded. Please see our [Terms & Conditions] for broader details on warranty, liability limits, and dispute resolution.

9. Local Pickup (If Applicable)

If we offer a local pickup option:

Risk and responsibility transfer to you once goods leave our premises.
You must verify your order contents before departing. We cannot be responsible for any damage that occurs afterward.

10. Changes to Delivery Address

You may request an address change before your order is processed for shipping.
Once an order is with the carrier, address changes may not be possible, or may incur additional fees.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions about shipping or need help with an existing order:

Phone: 05 5531 2616
Address: 16 Hinde Street, Ashmore, QLD, Australia
Or see our [Contact Page] for email and online inquiry options.

12. Policy Updates

We reserve the right to update or modify this Shipping Policy at any time. Any changes take effect immediately upon posting to our website. Your continued use of our services or purchase of goods following any changes indicates your acceptance of the revised policy.