1. Overview
This Shipping Policy explains how MR STEVEN RICHARD TOPPLE ("we", "us", "our") arranges the collection, carriage and delivery of your goods. We provide freight forwarding and logistics services covering road, sea, air and rail transport, plus warehousing, distribution and customs clearance. This policy should be read together with our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
2. Booking and documentation
To book a shipment, request a quote or confirm your booking by email. You must provide accurate details including the nature, weight, dimensions and value of the goods, collection and delivery addresses, and any special handling requirements. We will issue the relevant transport documentation (such as a consignment note, booking confirmation or bill of lading) and any export documentation needed. Please review all documents carefully and let us know immediately about any errors.
3. Transit times
Transit times quoted at the time of booking are estimates, not guarantees. Actual transit can be affected by weather, congestion, port and border delays, customs inspections, strikes and other factors beyond our control. We will keep you updated where there are material changes. We do not guarantee specific delivery dates or times unless a confirmed service level is agreed in writing.
4. Tracking
We provide tracking updates for our shipments so you know where your cargo is at every stage. For full visibility, please ensure the contact details on your booking are correct. Tracking information is provided in good faith based on data from carriers and is for guidance only.
5. Packing and labelling
You are responsible for ensuring your goods are packed, protected and labelled so they can be transported safely. Goods that are poorly packed may be rejected by carriers or may not be covered by insurance. Fragile, hazardous, high-value or temperature-sensitive goods must be declared at the time of booking and marked accordingly.
6. Insurance
Carriers' liability for lost or damaged goods is often limited to well below the value of your cargo. We strongly recommend cargo insurance and can arrange it for you on request before shipment. Insurance is subject to the insurer's terms and to accurate declaration of the goods and their value. Without insurance, any compensation may be limited by the applicable carrier's conditions or by international conventions.
7. Duties, taxes and customs
International shipments may be subject to import duties, taxes and customs clearance at the destination. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, these charges are payable by you (or the importer of record) in addition to the freight charges. We can handle customs brokerage on your behalf and will advise on documentation and costs where possible, but final determination is made by the relevant customs authority.
8. Prohibited and restricted items
We do not transport items that are illegal to ship in the United Kingdom or the destination country, including counterfeit goods, illegal drugs, weapons (unless lawful and properly declared), and other goods prohibited by carriers. Restricted goods — including dangerous goods, alcohol and tobacco products, and live animals — require prior written agreement and may incur additional charges. Goods discovered to be undeclared or prohibited may be refused, returned or surrendered to the authorities, at your risk and cost.
9. Delivery and proof of delivery
Deliveries are made to the address you provide. We will provide a proof of delivery for consignments. If no one is available to accept delivery, the carrier may leave the goods, return them to the depot, or apply storage charges; please provide accurate delivery instructions, including a contact telephone number where possible.
10. Liability and claims
Our liability and the liability of our carriers are limited as set out in our Terms of Service and in the applicable transport documentation. If your goods are lost or damaged, notify us in writing as soon as possible and no later than the time limits in our documentation (typically within 3 days of delivery for visible damage). Claims are assessed in accordance with the applicable carrier regime and insurance terms. See our Refund Policy for how refunds and claims payments are handled.
11. Contact us
For any questions about shipping with us, please contact:
MR STEVEN RICHARD TOPPLE
35 Woodmere, Bracknell, RG12 9QD, United Kingdom