SHIPPING INFORMATION
Why isn't shipping always free? A fair question.
You might have asked yourself why we don't just include shipping in the price or offer automatic discounts for larger orders. It's a conversation we've had internally many times, and the answer comes down to two principles we're not willing to compromise on. The first is purely practical: the cost of getting a package from a warehouse to your doorstep is significant, and those fees directly fund the maintenance of our warehouse network. This investment is what allows us to keep our operations running smoothly, enabling the faster shipping and return services you rely on. Without that contribution, maintaining that level of speed and dependability would be a real challenge.
The second reason is rooted in our relationship with the independent retailers who stock our products. Prices vary from country to country, shaped by local import duties and the cost of living. If we were to offer free global shipping, we'd inevitably undercut those local shops—something we've consciously chosen to avoid. We'd genuinely love to be able to offer free shipping to everyone, and to provide discounts on bulk orders, but these two factors make it a step we can't responsibly take.
How that philosophy shows up at checkout
When you review your order, the shipping charge you see isn't a random figure. It's a transparent attempt to balance the real-world costs of logistics with our commitment to fair, regionally-sensitive pricing. We don't pad these fees, and they aren't a hidden profit stream for us. They simply help cover the expense of moving your items from our shelves to your home, while respecting the pricing structure that supports our global retail partners.
A heads-up for international orders
If your order is crossing a border, there's an extra detail to keep in mind. While we work to keep duties to a minimum, the responsibility for any customs, duties, or import fees that your local authorities may charge rests with you. These charges are determined entirely outside of our control, so it's wise to be aware that they could be applied when your package arrives.
What to expect with pre-orders and backorders
If your cart includes a pre-order item, the whole order might not ship out immediately. In some cases, we'll automatically split it into multiple shipments so that the in-stock products can start their journey to you without delay. You won't be left guessing—the status of each item is clearly listed in your order confirmation, so you'll know exactly what's happening from the start.
The simplest way to skip shipping costs entirely
If you'd rather not pay for shipping at all, our strongest recommendation is to buy from a retailer in your own neighborhood. It's the most direct way to avoid shipping fees, and it puts your money right back into the local businesses that form the backbone of our community. Our entire shipping model was built with this idea at its heart: that sometimes, the best option is the one just down the street.