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FAQ

Grades

WHAT GRADES DO THE BOOKS HAVE?

Every book listed on Thrift Reads comes with a grade and a condition note. The grades help you understand the overall condition of the book before purchasing.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT GRADES AVAILABLE?

Books are graded based on their condition, ranging from “As New” to “Binding Copy”. Each listing includes a specific condition note detailing any wear or damage.

The grades are:

As New: The book is in perfect condition, looking as if it has just been published. There are no defects, damage, or markings.

Fine: The book is nearly perfect, with only minor signs of wear. It has been read but remains in excellent condition with no obvious defects.

Very Good: The book shows some signs of wear but is still in very good condition. There may be minor scuffs or marks, but overall it is well-preserved.

Good: The book has been read and shows general signs of wear. There may be slight damage to the cover, spine, or pages, but it is still in good readable condition.

Fair: The book is worn with significant signs of wear. There may be tears, creases, or markings, but all the text is legible and it is still functional for reading.

Poor: The book is heavily worn and has major defects such as missing pages, large tears, or significant markings. It is still readable, but only just.

Ex-Library: The book was once part of a library collection and shows typical library markings and wear. It may have stamps, stickers, and protective covers.

Binding Copy: The book is in poor condition with a severely damaged or loose binding. It may be missing the cover or pages but can still be used for reading or rebinding.

Each grade provides a clear indication of the book’s condition, helping you make an informed purchase.

Thrift Reads

WHAT IS THRIFT READS?

Thrift Reads is an online second-hand bookstore based in Christchurch, New Zealand. We aim to keep books in circulation longer, support charities, and make it easier to find second-hand books online.

CONTACT US

You can reach us through the contact form on our website or by emailing our customer service team. support@thriftreads.co.nz We are here to help with any inquiries or concerns you may have.

DO YOU BUY BOOKS?

Not at this stage, but if you have a unique item, please email us with the details. 

For larger donations we can contribute to shipping to Christchurch or collect from your home directly.

DO YOU THROW BOOKS OUT?

Thrift Reads gives every book a chance to re-enter circulation. Any book older than 3 years is heavily discounted. Books that have not been sold after 4 years are removed from our inventory and disposed of. Storing books costs money and while we want to keep books in circulation we have limited space.

WHAT IF I HAVE AN ISSUE WITH MY ORDER?

If you encounter any issues with your order, please contact our customer service team through our website or email, and we will assist you promptly.

WHAT IS YOUR RETURN POLICY?

Due to the nature of second-hand books, all sales are final. However, if you receive a book that is significantly different from its described condition, please contact us for assistance.

Charity

HOW DOES THRIFT READS SUPPORT CHARITY?

For every book sold, Thrift Reads donates over 10% to charity. This is done via book drives where we buy books and donate to the charity chosen by the donator. Any extra is then donated to the book buyers charity of choice. 

WHEN ARE CHARITIES PAID?

Charities are paid at the end of a month when the donation amount reaches $20+ or after 3 months, whichever occurs first. Please note that additional donations are only made when a book is sold.

WHY WOULD I DONATE TO THRIFT READS INSTEAD OF THE CHARITY DIRECTLY?

Supporting Multiple Charities:
When you purchase or donate a book, you support two charities simultaneously: the one chosen by the donator and the one you select as the buyer. This dual support system maximises the impact of your contribution.

Encouraging Book Recycling:
By buying second-hand books from Thrift Reads, you help keep books in circulation longer, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. This is an additional positive impact beyond the direct monetary donation to charities.

Promoting Access to Affordable Books:
Your purchase helps make books more affordable and accessible to others. By providing the best online experience for book lovers around the country, Thrift Reads ensures better access to a wide variety of books.

Convenience:
Purchasing books from Thrift Reads allows you to support charitable causes effortlessly while shopping for something you enjoy. It’s a convenient way to make a positive impact without needing to make a separate donation.

Specialist Book Selling:
Thrift Reads is dedicated to making book buying a seamless experience with our searchable online store that serves customers nationwide. This specialist approach to book selling improves the experience for buyers and reduces the workload for charities, allowing them to focus more on their core missions. Book selling is a specialist business, and our expertise ensures that the process is efficient and beneficial for all parties involved.

Shipping

WHAT ARE THE SHIPPING COSTS?

Shipping costs $8 for the first book and $1 for each additional book. For rural delivery, there is an extra charge of $5.

WHAT IS METRO AND RURAL SHIPPING?

Metro shipping applies to urban areas, such as Christchurch, Auckland, or Wellington, where standard delivery services are available. Rural shipping applies to locations outside main urban centres, such as farms or smaller towns. Rural delivery incurs an additional charge due to the additional NZ Post charges.

CAN I CLICK AND COLLECT?

No, we do not offer a click and collect service at this stage. All orders are delivered via NZ Post.

WHICH COURIER SERVICE DO YOU USE?

We use NZ Post for all our shipping needs.

HOW LONG WILL DELIVERY TAKE?

Delivery times depend on your location. Standard delivery usually takes 3-5 working days, while rural delivery may take slightly longer.

DO YOU SHIP INTERNATIONALLY?

Currently, Thrift Reads ships only within New Zealand.

CAN I TRACK MY ORDER?

Yes, once your order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number to monitor your delivery.

Payments

HOW CAN I PAY FOR MY ORDER?

We offer various payment methods, including:

  • Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, Amex
  • Afterpay
  • PayPal
  • Bank deposit

HOW DO I GET A REFUND IF NEEDED?

In cases where a refund is warranted, please reach out to our customer service team. We handle refund requests on a case-by-case basis.