Shipping policy
1. Processing Time
- How long before an order ships (e.g., 1-3 business days)
- Note if it excludes weekends/holidays
- Mention if certain gadgets are made-to-order or drop-shipped (longer processing)
2. Shipping Rates & Methods
- Flat rate vs. calculated at checkout vs. free shipping threshold (e.g., "free shipping over $50" — common conversion booster)
- List carriers used (USPS, UPS, DHL, etc.)
- Standard vs. expedited options if offered
3. Delivery Estimates
- Domestic: e.g., 3-7 business days
- International (if applicable): e.g., 7-21 business days, customs may add delay
- Always state these are estimates, not guarantees — carrier delays aren't your fault
4. International Shipping (if applicable)
- Which countries you ship to
- Customer responsible for customs duties/import taxes (important — avoids disputes)
- Note that customs can delay delivery, out of your control
5. Order Tracking
- Confirmation that tracking number is emailed once shipped
- Link to tracking portal if you use one
6. Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Packages
- Your process: e.g., "contact us within 48 hours of noting an issue"
- State whether you replace, refund, or file a carrier claim
- Risk of loss transfers to buyer once handed to carrier (standard, but pair with a "we'll help resolve it" tone so it doesn't feel cold)
7. Incorrect Address
- Not liable for orders shipped to an address the customer entered incorrectly
- Reshipping costs if applicable
8. Order Changes/Cancellations
- Window during which customer can still modify/cancel before it ships (e.g., "within 12 hours of ordering")
Gadget-specific note: if any items are heavier/bulkier (like larger home tools) versus small gadgets, consider mentioning weight-based shipping tiers, since a flat rate can eat into margins on heavier items.