The questions we are asked most often. If yours is not here, email support@vipvaultdirect.cam.
Choosing a safe
- How do I know what size I need?Measure what you actually plan to store and compare it to the internal dimensions, not the external cabinet size — walls, insulation and the door mechanism take up a lot of room. Then allow extra for shelving, door clearance and things you will add later.
- What is a cash rating and do I need one?A cash rating is the value a safe is designed to protect against burglary when correctly installed, and insurers use it to decide how much cover applies. If you are insuring the contents, ask your insurer what rating they require before you order — it is the single most common reason a safe has to be replaced.
- Is a fire-rated safe also burglar resistant?Not necessarily. They are separate tests. Fire ratings state how long the safe keeps its contents below a set internal temperature; burglary ratings measure resistance to attack. Many units carry both, but check the listing rather than assume.
- Will a paper-rated fire safe protect hard drives or USBs?No. Paper survives to around 177°C, but digital media starts to fail near 52°C. For drives, tapes or film you need a data or media rated unit.
- Digital, combination, key or biometric lock?Digital suits frequent access and multiple users, and commercial locks can add audit trails, time delay or dual control. Mechanical combination needs no batteries and suits infrequent access. Key locks are simple but the key must never live near the safe. Biometric is convenient, but the safe’s construction and the certified lock quality matter far more than the opening method.
Firearm storage
- Which gun safe do I legally need?Storage requirements are set by your state or territory and depend on the firearm category and the number of firearms. Check the current rules with your local firearms registry, then match the safe’s stated category and capacity. Ammunition usually has to be stored in a separate locked compartment.
- Does it have to be bolted down?In almost all cases yes. Compliant anchoring is generally part of the legal requirement, not an optional extra.
Delivery and installation
- How long does delivery take?Typically 3–5 business days to metropolitan areas, Monday to Friday. Out-of-stock items are confirmed with a lead time before we proceed.
- Will you bring it inside?Only if you choose an option that includes it. Standard delivery is to your front door at ground level. Offloading, delivery to site and full professional installation are all available — see shipping and delivery.
- Can you install it for me?Yes. Certified installers anchor the safe into concrete, tile, timber, brick or plaster to manufacturer standard. Tell us the floor or wall construction and we will quote it.
- Do you deliver to regional or remote areas?Many, but not all. Some remote routes fall outside standard freight. Send us the address before ordering and we will quote it properly.
- Do I need to prepare anything?Check gate widths, lift dimensions, corridor turns, doorway clearance and the floor’s load capacity. Heavy units may need reinforced flooring or lifting equipment.
Orders, payment and returns
- Are prices in Australian dollars?Yes, and they include GST unless a listing says otherwise.
- How do I pay?Choose one of three options at checkout: pay over the phone, pay on pick-up, or pay on delivery. Nothing is charged online — your order is placed on hold and we email you the payment information within one business day. Questions: call 0450 689 730.
- Is my card safe?We never ask for card details on this website. If you pay over the phone, your card details are used only to process that payment and are not stored.
- Can I change my mind?Within 30 days of delivery, if the unit is boxed, unopened and in original packaging. You cover the outbound and return freight and a 20% restocking fee. Used, installed, custom-made and clearance items cannot be returned on change of mind — but this never affects your rights if a product is faulty.
- What if it arrives damaged?Email us with your order number and photographs and we will sort out a repair, replacement or refund.
- Do you supply businesses and government?Yes — multi-unit orders, written quotes and purchase orders are all fine. Send us the requirement.
Owning the safe
- What if I forget the combination or lose the key?Contact us or a licensed safe technician. Do not attempt to force or drill the safe — you will usually destroy the lock, void the warranty, and pay more than a proper opening would have cost.
- Does a safe need servicing?Electronic locks need batteries changed on schedule, and mechanical locks and bolt work benefit from periodic servicing — particularly on commercial units in daily use.
- What warranty applies?The manufacturer’s warranty stated on the listing. Claims can be lodged through us or directly with the manufacturer’s service network.