Shipping policy
Last updated: 28/11/25
Thank you for supporting Reading by Candlelight! This Shipping Policy outlines how and when your orders are prepared and delivered.
1. Processing Times
Subscription Boxes and Bundles
Reading by Candlelight subscription boxes and bundles are shipped in the second week of each month.
There is no cut-off date.
If you subscribe at any time during the month, you will receive that month’s box, unless the product page clearly shows a pre-order for the following month (e.g. when a box sells out).
If the box is sold out, the listing will automatically switch to pre-orders for the next month.
Pre-Order Items (e.g. Advent Calendar)
Some products are released as pre-orders with a future dispatch date.
Product pages will clearly state:
- the estimated shipping date
- whether pre-orders ship separately or together with other items
- any delays due to handmade or specialty components
If your order contains both in-stock and pre-order items, they may be shipped together on the pre-order release date, unless the listing specifies otherwise.
Online Store Orders (Non-Subscription Items)
In-stock items (excluding pre-orders) are shipped within 2–5 business days.
During busy periods (holidays, launches, Advent season), dispatch times may be slightly longer — we will always work as quickly as possible.
2. How We Ship
All orders — including Australian and New Zealand deliveries — are shipped exclusively with Australia Post.
We choose Australia Post because they offer reliable service, complete coverage across Australia and New Zealand, and full tracking on all parcels.
3. Shipping Pricing
Subscription Boxes & Bundles
Standard Shipping (Australia): FREE
Express Post (Australia): From $14.95 based on size/weight of order
New Zealand Shipping: Calculated at checkout
One-Off Boxes and Past Boxes
Standard Shipping (Australia): $14.95
Express Post (Australia): From $19.95 based on size/weight of order
New Zealand Shipping: Calculated at checkout
One-Off Bundles
Standard Shipping (Australia): $9.95
Express Post (Australia): From $14.95 based on size/weight of order
New Zealand Shipping: Calculated at checkout
All Other Store Items
Australia: Shipping is calculated at checkout based on size/weight
New Zealand: Shipping is calculated by Australia Post at checkout
All prices are listed in AUD.
4. Delivery Timeframes
Australia (Australia Post)
Standard: 2–10 business days
Express: 1–4 business days
New Zealand (Australia Post International)
Standard international: 7–20 business days
(Subject to customs processing)
These delivery windows are estimates provided by Australia Post and may vary due to location, weather, public holidays, or peak periods.
5. Tracking Your Order
Tracking is included for all Australian and New Zealand parcels.
You’ll receive a tracking email when your order ships.
6. Shipping Address Accuracy
Please ensure your shipping address is correct at checkout.
Orders delivered to an incorrect address supplied by the customer cannot be replaced or refunded.
If you need to update your address and the order hasn’t shipped yet, email:
molly@readingbycandlelight.com.au as soon as possible.
7. Lost or Missing Parcels
If your parcel appears to be lost:
1. Contact us
2. We will lodge an inquiry with Australia Post
3. We will keep you updated throughout the process
If Australia Post confirms the parcel is lost, we will offer a replacement or refund, depending on availability.
8. Damaged Orders
If your order arrives damaged, contact us within 30 days with:
- your order number
- photos of the damage
- photos of the packaging (if possible)
We follow Australian Consumer Law and will replace or refund the damaged item(s).
If needed, we will provide a pre-paid Australia Post return label.
9. Customs & Import Fees (New Zealand)
Orders sent to New Zealand may incur:
- import duties
- GST
- processing or clearance fees
These charges are the responsibility of the customer.
10. Contact Us
If you have questions or need help with your order, please reach out:
molly@readingbycandlelight.com.au