Shipping & Returns

Terms & Conditions

Our Items:

Many of our items are fragile and are packed with the utmost care. We endeavour to ship all items in the safest and most cost-effective way possible. As our items come in many different shapes, sizes and weights, packaging and shipping is calculated accordingly.

Handmade pieces and real coral items are one of a kind pieces. You may find flaws and may differ from the picture, because they are all handmade or real objects - each piece is unique. These add appeal to the items and are not defects. We do our best to photograph and describe all quirks. All items are sold as-is. Our photographs form part of the items’ descriptions.

Items described on our website are usually photographed in ‘natural’ light. Please note that photographs of items displayed in-store may show colours and sizes differently to the item listing (for example, a light shade may look a different colour or height) And computer, tablet and phone screens do all display colours differently.

We endeavour to disclose as much information as we can about our items and do not intend to mislead regarding their colours, sizes and shapes

Shipping FAQs:

How are items shipped?

Within Australia, items are shipped via a courier company, or Australia post. All parcels are tracked and will leave our store within 3-5 working days of you placing your order.

You are welcome to choose a shipping method when checking out, however some areas may not be reached via courier, or the shipping cost is prohibitive. Therefore, we reserve the right to alter the shipping method.

How will I know my item is shipped?

You will be emailed and provided with a tracking number shortly after your order has left our store. Please be accurate with entering your correct email address at checkout. If you have any questions regarding the status of, or tracking your order, please email theseamerchanttas@gmail.com

How long will it take for my order to arrive?

Shipping across Australia is estimated at between 3-10 days, however, this greatly depends on your location and whether it is a peak shipping time.

During busier times for couriers or Australia Post, shipping time may increase. While delays such as these are beyond our control, we will always endeavour to provide you with as much information that is available to us regarding your order.

It appears that my item’s shipping has been delayed – what can I do?

Your tracking detail link is provided to us/you by the courier, or Australia Post, depending on the shipping method. If your item’s shipping has been delayed, you may contact the deliverer directly (or choose to complete their short online form, to lodge your enquiry), to find out more information.

If you do not receive a response from them within 3-5 days, please email or call us theseamerchanttas@gmail.com (03) 64532053 and we will also contact them.

The item I want is large and does not include shipping (as yet). What do I do?

Many of our items – particularly furniture - is oversized and we need to know your postcode (and sometimes access details) so we may provide you with a shipping quote.

You are invited to purchase the item, and we will then contact you with a quote to ship it to you. If you agree, we then invoice you for shipping. Shipping invoices are payable on receipt so that we are able to secure your booking at the price quoted.

If you don’t agree, and would prefer not to proceed with your purchase, we immediately refund you the item cost.

We also offer a click and collect option on checkout - So if you are in the area - you are more than welcome to come and collect your item!

Can I organise my own shipping?

We do not recommend that you organise your own shipping. We use companies that are familiar with the fragility of our items and have a long-standing relationship with The Sea Merchant. (They can and do go above-and-beyond to ensure our customers receive items on time and intact.)

However, should you wish to organise your own shipping, please note that your representative is responsible for pick up at our agreed time, and all suitable packaging of, loading, transporting of, and communication with you regarding the item once it has left our door.

Can I pick up my item from The Sea Merchant in Penguin?

Of course! Simply choose this option when you make your purchase. For larger items, and so we may have the item ready for you, please leave a note at checkout that confirms your pickup day and time.

You must pick up within 3 days of purchasing as we are unable to store items for longer than this time.

Returns FAQs

I have changed my mind – can I return my item?

We do not offer returns, or exchanges for change of mind.

We encourage you to take time to view all the photos, descriptions and particularly measurements on the website to ensure that you are happy with your choice of product. Feel free to phone with any questions – our Crew is always ready to help!

One-off pieces and real coral items always have some unique quirks, which we will endeavour to show in detailed photos and in the description. These are not defects and not a reason to return an item.

I have received my item and it is damaged – what do I do?

While we pack all items with the utmost care, at rare times an item may be damaged in transit.

If your item is damaged during transit, please:

Take detailed photos of the external packaging (this may aid an insurance claims)
Take detailed photos of the damaged item
Email photos and your order details to theseamerchanttas@gmail.com

We must be contacted with 7 days of your item’s delivery, whether the delivery be to your home, or local Post Office, or other.

Failure to contact us in this timeframe may mean we cannot assist you.

For confirmation, The Sea Merchant may require return shipment of the product. If we have a replacement, it will be sent at no charge. Alternatively, a refund will be paid in full once a claim with the courier's insurance company has been processed.