Late Delivery and lack of feedback or communication

I bought items online with an estimated delivery date of 29 December 2018, there was the delay then they change the terms of contract where I opted for Cash On Delivery(COD) and they said their courier service does not work on COD, after that i paid the required amount and I have yet to receive the items. These are mostly stationery for school and I am caught between getting a late delivery and cancelling the order and getting my refund or not getting the refund at all as I have seen other reviews where Takealot dont honour their prpmises. I have to consider terminating the relatioshship as this is the second time I experience this type of service and there is a common thread from mos respondents regarding lat delivery, damaged goods, refund issues. I have over 5 year relationship and this is the worst period I have had with them. I need to look for another service provider that is small enough to care about its customers and keep to their promise