The Tote Project was founded by friends Fay Grant and Michelle Chavez to empower survivors of human trafficking through ethical employment and awareness. They design and sell fair trade tote bags and pouches made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, many of which feature upcycled sari linings and are printed with eco-friendly, water-based inks. All products are ethically crafted in India by survivors and women at risk through partnerships with fair trade-certified organizations.
Since 2013, The Tote Project has donated over $50,000 to support survivor programs, including job training, art therapy, and youth outreach. Recognized by U.S. Congress in 2018 for their efforts in fighting against human trafficking, The Tote Project merges fashion with activism to create products that carry a powerful message of hope, freedom, and dignity for women around the world
Find all the information you need in one convenient spot.
When will my order ship?
Most orders ship within 1–5 business days. Made-to-order or limited items may take longer (noted on the product page in the shipping information).
Where do you ship?
We ship within the continental U.S. only.
Which carrier will deliver my order?
USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Carrier selection is based on item size, fragility, value, and fulfillment location.
How much does shipping cost?
To minimize shipping costs to our customers, we charge a flat rate based on your order subtotal.
Oversized items may have additional shipping charges. Review the product shipping information for further details.
What if I entered the wrong address?
Please double-check at checkout. Re-shipping or rerouting fees may apply.
Do you offer returns?
Yes — eligible items can be returned within 10 days of delivery, unused and undamaged.
We charge an $11 flat rate for all standard returns.
Oversized items are not eligible for flat-rate returns and will require additional shipping fees.
How are refunds issued?
Because many items are handmade or small-batch, most approved returns are issued as store credit.
Cash refunds are available depending on the individual maker's policies. We will do our best to provide a cash refund when possible.
Customer-paid shipping is non-refundable.
What items are final sale?
Made-to-order, limited edition, designer/specialty production, custom items, and anything marked “Final Sale.”
What if my item arrives damaged or is lost?
Contact us within 10 days with photos of the box, packaging, and item. We’ll assist with a replacement or refund/store credit as applicable.
Do you offer a customer satisfaction guarantee?
Yes, we always want you to be happy. If something feels off with your purchase, please let us know.
We review concerns on a case-by-case basis and will do our best to make it right within the bounds of our and our maker's policies.
Please allow 12-24 business hours for us to respond to your query.
According to the Nov. 2025 Bank of America small-business outlook, 74% of U.S. small and mid-sized business owners expect higher costs and tighter margins heading into 2026, putting additional pressure on independent retailers to survive and grow.
Your support directly impacts the livelihoods of the 100+ independent makers that we have the pleasure of working with.