Shipping Policy

A Legal Disclaimer

The information on this page provides general and high-level guidance on how to create a Shipping Policy. It does notconstitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.

Since we cannot predict the specific shipping practices or legal requirements that apply to your business, you should notuse this content as a substitute for legal consultation. We strongly recommend seeking professional legal advice to help you understand your obligations and to assist you in creating a Shipping Policy that meets the standards of your jurisdiction and business model.

Shipping Policy - The Basics

A Shipping Policy is a legally binding document that outlines the terms under which you, as a business owner, deliver goods to your customers. It sets clear expectations, defines responsibilities, and helps both you and your customers understand what to expect during the shipping process.

This policy provides a legal framework for:

Shipping timeframes
Costs
Delivery options
Responsibilities in the event of delays or issues

A clear Shipping Policy improves customer experience by minimizing confusion, and it can also help protect your business from complaints, disputes, or misunderstandings.

What To Include In The Shipping Policy

While each business has different logistics, most Shipping Policies should address these key topics:

Order Processing Time
State how long it takes to prepare and ship an order after it’s placed (e.g. 1–3 business days).
Shipping Costs
Explain how shipping fees are calculated, including flat rates, weight-based pricing, or free shipping thresholds.
Domestic and International Shipping
Clarify which countries or regions you ship to and the differences (if any) in shipping times, carriers, or costs.
Shipping Methods and Delivery Timeframes
List standard, express, or other delivery options and estimated arrival times.
Tracking and Notifications
Let customers know how they will receive tracking info and updates once the order ships.
Missed Deliveries or Returned Packages
Describe what happens if a package is undeliverable, refused, or returned to sender.
Service Interruptions or Delays
Address potential disruptions (e.g. weather, holidays, carrier issues) and your process for handling them.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Packages
Outline your policy on claims, investigations, and whether you offer replacements or refunds.