When will I receive my order?

Ordering, Stock & Delivery FAQs

We understand that delivery timelines are important, especially when ordering books for school, teaching, or study. Below is a clear guide explaining how our order and delivery process works, depending on stock availability.

If all items in your order are in stock
  • We pack your order once payment has been confirmed
  • Your parcel is dispatched with the next available courier collection
  • You’ll receive a tracking number by email as soon as your order is on its way

Delivery time thereafter depends on your selected courier option and delivery location.

If one or more items in your order are not currently in stock

Some books are sourced from publishers or suppliers specifically to fulfil customer orders and may not be held as general stock.

  • Product pages display an estimated supplier lead time, for example: “Usually shipped in 5–7 business days”
  • We place an order with the supplier if the item is not already on order
  • Our suppliers work to provide stock as quickly as possible
  • If there are any unexpected delays or availability issues, we’ll contact you
  • Once all items in your order have arrived with us:
    • Your order is packed
    • Your parcel is dispatched with the next available courier collection
    • You’ll receive a tracking number by email once it’s on its way

Please note: estimated shipping timeframes are not guarantees and may be affected by supplier stock levels, reprints, public holidays, courier disruptions, or other factors beyond our control.

Orders containing both in-stock and supplier items

If your order includes a combination of in-stock items and supplier-sourced items, the order will be dispatched once all items are available, unless otherwise arranged.

Estimated delivery timeline guide

Below is a simple guide showing the estimated delivery timeframes based on typical supplier lead times shown on product pages, plus courier delivery. All centres include a 2-day buffer for handling and unforeseen delays.

Supplier Shipping Time Cape Town Local & Surrounds Main Centres Regional & Outlying
Ships in 5–7 business days 9–12 business days 9–13 business days 11–15 business days
Ships in 7–10 business days 11–15 business days 11–16 business days 13–18 business days
Ships in 10–12 business days 14–17 business days 14–18 business days 16–20 business days
This is a backorder item Lead times will be advised after ordering

“Total” refers to supplier sourcing time, courier delivery time, and a 2-day buffer for handling and potential delays. All timeframes shown are estimates only.

Need help?

If you still have questions or can’t find the information you’re looking for, you’re welcome to contact us:

Email: hello@bobsbooks.co.za
Or send us an instant message via the website.