These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the provision of courier, freight, and logistics services (“Services”) by MTE Xpress (Pty) Ltd (“MTE Xpress”, “we”, “our”, “us”) to the client (“you”, “your”, “consignor”, “consignee”). By using our Services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.
1. Definitions
● Consignment – Any goods, documents, parcels, or freight accepted by MTE Xpress for carriage.● Waybill / Consignment Note – The official document issued by MTE Xpress describing the shipment, accepted by the sender as proof of contract.● Prohibited Goods – Items that MTE Xpress will not carry, as outlined in Clause 9.● Dangerous Goods – Goods classified as hazardous under IATA, IMDG, SANS, or applicable regulations.● Third-Party Carrier – Any subcontractor engaged by MTE Xpress to fulfil all or part of the Services.
2. Acceptance of Terms
By handing over a consignment to MTE Xpress, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms. No employee, agent, or representative of MTE Xpress may waive or vary these Terms without written authorisation by a company director.
3. Scope of Service
We undertake to transport consignments from the point of collection to the delivery address stated on the waybill, subject to these Terms. Delivery times are estimates only unless expressly agreed in writing as a “Guaranteed Service”.
4. Client Responsibilities
You are responsible for:
● Correct and complete addressing of the consignment.● Accurate declaration of contents, weight, and dimensions.● Adequate packaging to withstand normal handling and transport.● Compliance with all applicable laws regarding the transport of goods.
MTE Xpress is not liable for delays or losses arising from incorrect or incomplete shipping information.
5. Rates & Payment
Rates are calculated on the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight, using industry-standard formulas. Payment terms apply as stated on the invoice or account agreement. All charges exclude VAT unless otherwise specified.
6. Delivery & Proof of Delivery (POD)
Delivery is complete when:
● The consignment is signed for at the delivery address; or● Delivered in accordance with special sender instructions.
Electronic POD (including name, signature, or GPS coordinates) is accepted as conclusive proof of delivery.
7. Transit Times
Transit times are indicative and subject to operational and environmental factors. We are not liable for delays caused by factors beyond our control, including acts of God, strikes, weather, traffic, or customs inspections.
8. Liability & Limits of Indemnity
Our total liability for loss or damage to any consignment shall not exceed **R1 000 000** per consignment unless additional insurance has been purchased and confirmed in writing. We are not liable for indirect, special, or consequential losses, or for damage from insufficient packaging, inherent defects, or fragile contents.
9. Prohibited & Restricted Goods
We will not carry:
● Cash, jewellery, precious metals, or negotiable instruments.● Live animals, plants, or perishable foodstuffs (unless pre-approved).● Firearms, ammunition, explosives, or illegal substances.● Hazardous or dangerous goods without proper packaging and documentation.
We reserve the right to inspect and refuse consignments at our discretion.
10. Dangerous Goods & Hazardous Cargo
Dangerous Goods must be properly declared, packaged, and labelled per IATA, IMDG, or SANS regulations, and be accompanied by the relevant documentation. Failure to declare such goods will result in immediate termination of the contract and liability for all related losses or costs.
11. Insurance
Standard liability is limited as per Clause 8. Additional insurance cover is available on request and subject to premium payment before collection.
12. Customs & Regulatory Compliance
For cross-border shipments, you must provide accurate invoices, permits, and customs declarations. MTE Xpress is not responsible for duties, taxes, clearance delays, or losses due to incorrect declarations.
13. Undeliverable Shipments
If delivery cannot be completed, we will attempt to contact you for instructions. The consignment may be returned at your cost if no instructions are received within 7 days.
14. Right of Lien
We may hold any consignment as security for unpaid charges.
15. Data Protection
MTE Xpress will process personal data in accordance with applicable privacy laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
16. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any dispute shall be resolved in the courts of South Africa.
17. Amendment of Terms
MTE Xpress reserves the right to amend these Terms without prior notice. Updated versions will be posted on our website.