Shipping Policy

Section 1: Introduction

Welcome to Sting Stopper! We are committed to providing reliable and efficient delivery services for all your beekeeping needs. This shipping policy is designed to inform you about our shipping procedures and practices, ensuring clarity and satisfaction throughout your purchasing process.

Section 2: Shipping Options

We utilize a variety of shipping options through trusted carriers to ensure flexible and convenient delivery:

• UPS, USPS, AMAZON, DHL: Offer a range of services for both domestic and international shipping.
• LTL Freight: Suitable for larger or bulk orders requiring freight shipping due to the size and weight of the products.

We aim to use the most reliable options that can deliver orders quickly and safely and may change options as needed. 

Section 3: Processing Times

Orders are generally shipped within 1.7 business days from the date they are placed, although this may vary, especially during peak periods like spring. We strive to maintain efficiency, but please note that these are average times and not a guarantee. Smaller orders will often ship quicker than larger orders simply due to the amount of time needed to prepare them. 

Section 4: Shipping Times

Our shipping operations are conducted Monday through Friday. Please understand that the shipping times provided at checkout are estimates from the carrier after they receive the package, not from the order date. For example, if USPS Priority Mail estimates a 3-day delivery, this period starts after USPS has received the package. Note that USPS Priority Mail is a standard ground service and is not considered expedited shipping.

Section 5: Additional Shipping Fees

Customers are responsible for any additional charges that may arise from changes to the delivery address, redelivery charges, or if the shipment is returned to us as undeliverable. This also applies to LTL shipments that incur additional accessorial fees such as lift gates, residential delivery, limited access, and other related fees.

Section 6: Shipping Costs

We do not provide free shipping as a standard option because it would require us to increase the prices of our products, impacting the fairness for customers who choose to pick up their orders directly from our store.

Section 7: International Shipping

For international shipments, we do our best to estimate and collect all applicable fees upfront, including shipping, customs, and duties. However, any additional fees required upon delivery are the responsibility of the customer.

Section 8: Tracking and Delivery

After your order has been processed and shipped, you will receive a tracking number via email and SMS (if opted). The tracking details allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment and anticipate the delivery.

Section 9: Handling Delays and Shipping Issues

If there is an issue or delay with your order, the best first step is to contact the shipping company directly using the tracking number provided. As our shipments are sent FOB, it is the responsibility of the customer to make claims for lost or damaged packages according to the shipping company's terms.

• USPS: Submit a "Help Request" form first to start the process of finding a lost or missing package. This first step will often resolve most issues. If 7 business days from the submission of the "Help Request" form have passed, submit a "Missing Mail Request Form" to start a further investigation. These steps are required before we can further assist. 
  
  
• UPS: For tracking and initiating a claim, visit UPS Claims page to start an investigation and see their requirements.
  
  
• DHL: Manage your shipments and file claims at DHL Tracking and Claims.

• Amazon: Investigate shipments and file claims at "Where's My Stuff"
  
  Initiating an investigation or filing a claim with the carrier can sometimes cause a package that was slow or appeared lost to begin moving quickly. This process prompts the carrier to locate and expedite the delivery of the package, resolving delivery issues more efficiently.

Section 10: Damages and Loss

You have 7 days from the delivery date to report any missing or damaged items. It's important to document any damage with photos of both the box and the product, as we cannot process claims without this evidence. Under our FOB shipping terms, once a package is picked up by the carrier, it becomes the customer's responsibility to resolve any issues related to delivery, loss, or damage directly with the carrier.

Section 11: Returns and Exchanges

For information on returns or exchanges, please refer to our detailed return policy available on our website. This policy provides comprehensive instructions on how to proceed with returning or exchanging items.

Section 12: Contact Information

Should you have any questions regarding our shipping practices, please contact us via info@stingstopper.buzz. Our team is eager to assist you and ensure your satisfaction.

Section 13: Policy Updates

We regularly review and update our shipping policy to reflect changes in our shipping practices or relevant regulations. Any significant changes will be communicated through our website and direct communications to our customers where applicable.

This policy is crafted to ensure you are fully informed about our shipping practices, helping you understand the journey your orders take from our store to your doorstep. If you have further questions or need clarification on any part of our shipping process, please don't hesitate to reach out.