Returns Policy
Your satisfaction is our priority
Last updated: December 4, 2025
1. Returns Overview
We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase.
Our returns policy is designed to protect both buyers and sellers while ensuring fair and transparent transactions.
Tambala Market facilitates returns and refunds between buyers and sellers. This policy outlines the process, requirements, and responsibilities for all parties involved.
2. Return Window and Eligibility
Return Time Limits
2 Days from Delivery Confirmation
You have 2 days after delivery confirmation to report any issues or request a return. This applies to all delivery methods (pickup, delivery, courier).
Why 2 days?
- Gives you time to inspect items thoroughly
- Ensures evidence is fresh if there are issues
- Protects both buyers and sellers fairly
- Faster seller payouts for quality products
⏰ The 2-day return window starts after you confirm delivery (or after automatic confirmation if you don't confirm within 3 days).
Eligible Items
Items eligible for return must be:
- • In original condition and packaging
- • Unused and undamaged
- • Complete with all accessories and tags
- • Returned within the specified time limit
- • Not on the non-returnable items list
Non-Returnable Items
The following items cannot be returned:
- • Perishable goods (food, flowers, etc.)
- • Personal hygiene items
- • Custom or personalized products
- • Digital downloads and services
- • Items damaged by misuse or normal wear
- • Gift cards and vouchers
3. How to Return an Item
Initiate Return Request
Contact the seller directly through our messaging system or go to your order history and click "Request Return."
Provide reason for return and photos if the item is damaged or not as described.
Seller Response
The seller has 48 hours to respond to your return request. They may:
- • Approve the return and provide return instructions
- • Request additional information or photos
- • Offer a partial refund or store credit
- • Decline the return (with valid reason)
Package and Ship
If approved, carefully package the item in its original packaging and ship it back to the seller.
Use a trackable shipping method and keep the tracking number for your records.
Refund Processing
Once the seller receives and inspects the returned item, they will process your refund within 5-7 business days.
Refunds are processed to your original payment method (mobile money account or cash refund).
4. Refunds and Payment
Refund Methods
Bank and Mobile Money Refunds
- • Processed within 24-48 hours
- • Refunded to original bank account, card or mobile money account
- • May incur small transaction fees
Return Shipping Costs
Seller Responsibility
Seller pays return shipping when item is defective, damaged, or not as described.
Buyer Responsibility
Buyer pays return shipping for change of mind, wrong size, or buyer error.
Partial Refunds
Partial refunds may be issued when items are returned with:
- Missing parts or accessories
- Signs of use or wear beyond normal handling
- Damaged packaging (for collectibles or special items)
- Items returned late (after 2 days) but with valid exceptional circumstances
5. Exchanges
Exchanges are subject to seller approval and item availability.
Not all sellers offer exchanges. Check with the seller before requesting an exchange.
Exchange Process
- Contact the seller to request an exchange
- Confirm availability of desired item/size
- Return original item following return process
- Seller ships replacement item upon receiving return
- Pay any price difference or receive refund for lower-priced item
Exchange Limitations
- Same product only (different size, color, or variant)
- Subject to stock availability
- Must be within return window
- Additional shipping costs may apply
6. Dispute Resolution
When Sellers Don't Respond
If a seller doesn't respond to your return request within 48 hours, or if you can't reach an agreement:
- Contact Tambala Market customer support
- Provide order details and evidence of the issue
- Our team will investigate and mediate
- We'll work toward a fair resolution for both parties
Escalation Process
Level 1: Direct Communication
Try to resolve directly with the seller first
Level 2: Customer Support
Our support team mediates between buyer and seller
Level 3: Formal Review
Senior team reviews case and makes final decision
Evidence Requirements
To support your dispute, please provide:
- Clear photos of the item and any defects
- Screenshots of product listing and descriptions
- Communication history with the seller
- Proof of delivery (tracking information)
- Any other relevant documentation
7. Seller Responsibilities
Required Actions
Sellers must:
- • Respond to return requests within 48 hours
- • Provide clear return instructions
- • Process approved refunds within 7 business days
- • Accept returns for valid reasons
- • Maintain professional communication
Return Address
Sellers must provide a clear return address and instructions including:
- Complete physical address for returns
- Contact person and phone number
- Preferred shipping method
- Any special packaging requirements
Inspection Period
Sellers have 3 business days from receiving a returned item to inspect it and process the refund. If no action is taken within this period, the refund will be automatically processed.
8. Buyer Responsibilities
Before Requesting a Return
- Check the item carefully upon delivery
- Test electronic items within the first few days
- Keep all original packaging and accessories
- Take photos if the item is damaged or not as described
- Contact the seller promptly with any issues
During the Return Process
- Package items carefully to prevent damage in transit
- Use tracked shipping services
- Keep shipping receipts and tracking numbers
- Communicate clearly and professionally with sellers
- Be patient during processing times
9. Special Circumstances
Damaged in Transit
If items are damaged during shipping, contact both the seller and Tambala Market support immediately. We'll work with the shipping provider to resolve the issue.
Wrong Item Sent
If you receive the wrong item, the seller is responsible for all return shipping costs and must send the correct item at no additional charge.
Seller Account Issues
If a seller's account is suspended or closed during a return process, Tambala Market will handle the return and refund process directly.
Holiday Returns
Items purchased during holiday periods (November-January) may have extended return windows. Check individual product listings for specific holiday return policies.
10. Need Help?
Our customer support team is here to help with any return-related questions:
Email: dev@25points.com
Phone: +265 894 053 137
Address: Likonde Building, Area 47, Lilongwe
Support Tickets: Create Support Ticket
Help Center: Visit Help Center
This Returns Policy is designed to protect both buyers and sellers while ensuring fair and transparent transactions.
