LEGAL

Privacy Policy & Shipping Terms

Last updated: April 2025

This Privacy Policy and Shipping Terms document governs the collection, use, and protection of your personal information by Sharkway Logistics, and outlines the terms and conditions applicable to all shipments we handle. By using our services, you agree to the terms described herein.

1. Information We Collect

Personal Information

When you request a shipping quote, contact us, or use our services, we may collect: your full name, phone number, email address, physical delivery address, and business name (if applicable).

Shipment Information

To process your shipment, we collect details about your cargo including: cargo type, estimated CBM (cubic meters), goods description, origin and destination addresses, and any special handling requirements.

Communication Data

We retain records of communications between you and Sharkway Logistics, including WhatsApp messages, emails, and phone call notes, to ensure continuity of service.

2. How We Use Your Information

Service Delivery

Your information is primarily used to process and manage your shipments, coordinate customs clearance, arrange door-to-door delivery, and provide you with shipping updates and tracking information.

Communication

We use your contact details to send shipment status updates, respond to your enquiries, provide quotes, and notify you of any issues or delays with your cargo.

Legal & Compliance

We are required by South African and Chinese customs authorities to provide accurate shipper and consignee information on all customs declarations and shipping documents. Your information may be shared with relevant government authorities as required by law.

Service Improvement

We may use aggregated, anonymised data to improve our services, pricing, and logistics processes. This data cannot be used to identify individual customers.

3. Data Sharing & Third Parties

Logistics Partners

To fulfil your shipment, we share necessary information with our trusted logistics partners including shipping lines, port agents, customs brokers, and last-mile delivery providers in South Africa. These partners are bound by confidentiality agreements.

Customs Authorities

As required by law, we submit shipper and consignee details to Chinese export customs and South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs for all international shipments.

No Sale of Data

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to any third party for marketing or commercial purposes.

4. Data Security

Protection Measures

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorised access, loss, or misuse. Our systems are regularly reviewed and updated to maintain security standards.

Data Retention

We retain your personal and shipment data for a minimum of 5 years as required by South African tax and customs regulations. After this period, data is securely deleted or anonymised.

5. Your Rights

Access & Correction

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you, and to request corrections if any information is inaccurate or incomplete.

Deletion

You may request deletion of your personal data, subject to our legal obligations to retain certain records for customs and tax compliance purposes.

Objection

You have the right to object to the processing of your personal data for direct marketing purposes. To exercise this right, contact us via the details below.

6. Shipping Terms & Conditions

Liability

Sharkway Logistics acts as a freight forwarder and is not liable for loss or damage caused by circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to: acts of God, port strikes, customs delays, or government actions. We strongly recommend cargo insurance for all shipments.

Prohibited Goods

Customers are responsible for ensuring their goods comply with South African import regulations. Sharkway Logistics reserves the right to refuse shipment of any goods that are prohibited, restricted, or improperly declared. Any fines or penalties resulting from misdeclaration are the sole responsibility of the shipper.

Customs Delays

While we strive to ensure timely delivery, Sharkway Logistics cannot be held responsible for delays caused by customs inspections, port congestion, or regulatory changes. Estimated shipping times of 35–40 days are indicative and not guaranteed.

Payment Terms

Shipping costs are due upon confirmation of your shipment booking. Goods will not be released for delivery until all outstanding payments have been received. Sharkway Logistics reserves the right to hold cargo in the event of non-payment.

Cargo Insurance

Sharkway Logistics does not automatically insure your cargo. We strongly recommend that all customers arrange appropriate cargo insurance. We can assist in connecting you with insurance providers upon request.

7. Contact Us

Privacy Enquiries

For any questions about this Privacy Policy, to exercise your data rights, or to raise a concern, please contact us: Sharkway Logistics 30 Elizabeth Ave, Rivonia, Sandton, 2128, South Africa Phone (SA): 063 198 1519 WhatsApp (China Warehouse): 079 790 8888

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