When shipping herbal products—especially small-batch items—it is important to manage expectations regarding lead times, ingredient sensitivity, and the nature of artisan production.

Here is a comprehensive shipping policy tailored for an herbal business.

Shipping & Fulfillment Policy

Thank you for supporting small-batch herbalism! Because our products are handcrafted using seasonal and fresh ingredients, our shipping process differs slightly from mass-produced retailers.

1. Processing & Lead Times

• Small-Batch Production: Many of our products are made in small quantities to ensure potency and freshness. Please allow [Insert Number, e.g., 3–5] business days for your order to be processed and packed.

• Made-to-Order Items: If your order includes a "made-to-order" item, processing may take up to [Insert Number] days. We will notify you via email if there is any delay.

2. Shipping Methods & Rates

We currently ship via USPS and UPS. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the weight of your order and your location.

• Domestic Shipping: Standard shipping typically takes 3–7 business days once the package has left our studio.

• Tracking: You will receive a shipping confirmation email with a tracking number as soon as your label is created.

3. Ingredient Integrity & Weather Considerations

Our products are made with natural waxes, butters, and oils without synthetic stabilizers.

• Warm Weather Shipping: During summer months, salves or balms may soften during transit. This does not affect the quality of the product. If your product arrives soft, simply place it in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator for 30 minutes to reset.

• Eco-Friendly Packaging: We prioritize the planet. Your herbs are packed using  recyclable glass, compostable mailers and bubble wrap. Please reuse or recycle these materials!

4. Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Packages

• Damages: We take great care in packing your glass jars and tinctures. If an item arrives broken, please email a photo of the damage and the packaging to elderbuboutique@gmail.com within 48 hours of delivery so we can arrange a replacement.

• Lost/Stolen: We are not responsible for packages once they are marked as "Delivered" by the carrier. We recommend shipping to a secure location or a PO Box.

5. International Shipping

• Currently, we ship to United States only.

• Note: It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that herbal ingredients are legal for import into your country. We are not responsible for items seized by customs.

Important Reminders

• Address Accuracy: Please double-check your shipping address. We cannot redirect packages once they have been handed to the carrier.

• Holiday Delays: During peak seasons (November–December), carrier delays are common. We recommend ordering early to ensure your herbs arrive on time.

A Note on Artisan Variation: Because our herbs are harvested in small batches, you may notice slight variations in color or scent between orders. This is a hallmark of natural, minimally processed botanical plants.

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What to include in the Shipping Policy

Generally speaking, a Shipping Policy often addresses these types of issues: the timeframe for processing orders; the shipping costs; different domestic and international shipping solutions; potential service interruptions; and much, much more.