Refunds & Returns Policy
General Summary
Last updated: September 17th 2025
- 14-day returns on new, unused items.
- Get an RMA before sending anything back.
- Cut chain/rope, installed electronics, hazardous goods, special orders, and clearance can’t be returned (except damaged on arrival items).
- Defects/our error: we cover return shipping.
- Change of mind: you cover return shipping; restocking up to 15% may apply. Heavy/LTL items: freight at cost.
- Report shipping damage within 48 hours (note LTL damage on the delivery slip).
Complete Refunds & Returns Policy
Applies to: Online purchases from Windlass Central delivered worldwide. For trade/B2B and special-order terms, see “Exceptions” below.
1) Overview
We want you to be confident in your gear. Most new, unused items can be returned for a refund or exchange within 14 days of delivery. Please obtain an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorisation) before sending anything back.
- Email: hello@windlasscentral.com
- RMA Portal: Return
2) Return Eligibility & Timeframe
- Standard returns: within 14 days of delivery.
- Items must be new, unused, uninstalled, with all original packaging, manuals, tags, and parts.
- Installed, mounted, wet, or used items are not eligible except for warranty inspection.
3) Non-Returnable Items (Marine-specific)
To keep customers safe and comply with shipping regulations, the following aren’t returnable except for verified defects on arrival:
- Cut-to-length or custom-configured items: chain cut from bulk, rope cut/spliced, custom chain-gypsy pairings, custom wiring/looms.
- Electronics that show signs of installation/activation (e.g., windlass control boxes, foot switches, circuit breakers).
- Fluids, paints, adhesives, sealants, epoxies, and any hazardous materials (including flares/pyrotechnics).
- Batteries (wet/acid) and fuel-powered items that have been filled with fuel.
- Special-order, made-to-order, and clearance/final-sale items (marked as such at purchase).
Tip: If you’re unsure whether your item falls into the above, contact us before purchasing or unboxing.
4) Fit & Compatibility (Anchors, Chain & Windlasses)
Please verify the chain size, pitch, and grade match your gypsy before installation. We’re happy to confirm compatibility—just share your model, photos, and measurements. Used chain/gypsies that show load or wear are not returnable unless a defect is confirmed.
5) How to Start a Return
- Request an RMA via email or the portal with your order number, reason, and photos (if damaged/defective).
- We’ll reply with instructions, an RMA number, and a return address (note: heavy/oversize items may go to a freight dock).
- Pack securely in original packaging with all parts. Write the RMA number on the label—not on the product box.
6) Return Shipping & Fees
- Our error / DOA / defective on arrival (within 14 days): We provide a prepaid label or arrange pickup.
Change of mind / ordered the wrong size: - You pay return shipping.
- A restocking fee (up to 15%) may apply if packaging is missing/damaged or if items need inspection/repackaging.
- Oversize/heavy/LTL returns (e.g., anchors, windlasses, long chain):
- Return freight is actual carrier cost; deductibles apply if we book the freight on your behalf.
7) Exchanges
Exchanges are processed as a return + new order so you can secure replacement stock immediately. We’ll waive restocking where appropriate if you reorder the corrected item.
8) Refunds
- Once received and inspected, refunds are issued to the original payment method within 3–5 business days (bank processing times may vary).
- Original outbound shipping is not refundable unless we made an error.
- If a bundle discount or free shipping threshold was met, refunds may be prorated.
9) Damaged, Missing, or Wrong Items
Please inspect your delivery on arrival:
- Parcel damage: Report within 48 hours with photos of the box, label, and item.
- LTL/freight: Note visible damage or shortages on the bill of lading before signing; take photos of any concealed damage within 48 hours.
We’ll arrange replacement parts or a reshipment after the carrier claim is filed.
10) Warranty Claims
Many products carry a manufacturer’s warranty (e.g., motors, gearboxes, control units). If you experience a fault:
- Contact us with your order number, a description, installation photos, and the serial number.
- We’ll coordinate diagnosis/repair/replacement per the manufacturer’s terms.
- Warranty covers manufacturing defects, not misuse, improper installation, corrosion from neglect, or normal wear.
11) International Orders
- Duties, taxes, and brokerage fees are not refundable by us once collected.
- If returning from outside Australia, mark the shipment “Return of Goods” to avoid duplicate duties. Customer is responsible for international return freight.
12) Refused/Undeliverable Shipments
If a package is refused or undeliverable, we’ll refund the item price minus:
- Actual outbound shipping,
- Any return freight/fees, and
- Any restocking if packaging is compromised.
13) Exceptions & B2B/Trade Orders
Trade, bulk, and special-order purchases may have different terms agreed at order time. Those terms take precedence over this policy.
14) Contact
Windlass Central
Email: hello@windlasscentral.com
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