Shipping Policy

Fast, Reliable, and Transparent Shipping – We Get Your Amber Hearth Gear to You Quickly

At Amber Hearth, we know that waiting for a package can be exciting – but also frustrating when delays happen. That’s why we’ve built a shipping operation that prioritizes speed, accuracy, and transparency. From the moment you click “Place Order” to the moment your new favorite t‑shirt lands on your doorstep, we keep you informed every step of the way.

This Shipping Policy explains everything you need to know about how we process, pack, and ship your orders – including domestic and international delivery times, costs, tracking, lost packages, customs, and more. Please read it carefully before placing an order. By shopping with Amber Hearth, you automatically agree to the terms below.

Still have questions after reading? Contact our shipping support team:
📧 marga.trading.amz@gmail.com
📞 +84814592700 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM Mountain Time)

1. Order Processing Time – From Click to Ship {#processing-time}

Processing refers to the time between when you place your order and when we hand it to the carrier. This is separate from shipping time (the time the carrier takes to deliver).

Standard Processing Times

Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding U.S. federal holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day). Orders placed on weekends or holidays will begin processing on the next business day.

Same-Day Shipping (When Available)

We offer same‑day shipping for orders placed before 2:00 PM Mountain Time (MT) that include:

• Only in‑stock, non‑custom items

• A valid shipping address within the contiguous United States

• No special requests (e.g., gift wrapping, invoice changes)

Same‑day shipping is not guaranteed – but we achieve it for over 85% of eligible orders. During peak seasons (November–December), same‑day shipping may be temporarily suspended.

Why Processing Might Take Longer

Occasionally, processing may be delayed due to:

• Inventory verification – If our system shows stock but physical count is low, we may need to double‑check.

• Payment review – Stripe may flag an order for fraud review (rare, but happens). We will contact you if this occurs.

• Technical issues – Printer malfunctions, software outages, or carrier pickup delays.

• High volume – After major sales events (Black Friday, etc.), processing may extend to 3–4 business days.

If your order exceeds the estimated processing time, we will email you with an update and an apology. You may cancel for a full refund if the delay is unacceptable.

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2. Domestic Shipping (United States) {#domestic-shipping}

We offer several shipping options for customers within the 50 United States (including Alaska and Hawaii). All domestic shipments originate from our warehouse in West Jordan, Utah (84084).

Standard Shipping (USPS Ground Advantage / UPS Ground)

Important: Estimated delivery time begins after processing. For example, if you order on Monday, we process on Tuesday (1 business day), and standard shipping takes 3–7 business days, you should receive your order between Thursday and the following Tuesday.

Expedited Shipping (UPS 3-Day Select / FedEx Express Saver)

Expedited shipping is not available for PO Boxes, APO/FPO addresses, or rural routes that UPS/FedEx does not serve. If your address is ineligible, we will automatically offer Standard Shipping only.

Overnight / Next-Day Air

We do not offer overnight shipping at this time. Our fulfillment location in Utah means that next‑day delivery is only possible to nearby states (e.g., Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho) – and the cost would be prohibitive ($25–$40 per shirt). We may add overnight options in the future if customer demand justifies it.

Shipping to U.S. Territories

We ship to the following U.S. territories via USPS Priority Mail (no expedited options):

• Puerto Rico (PR)

• Guam (GU)

• U.S. Virgin Islands (VI)

• Northern Mariana Islands (MP)

• American Samoa (AS)

Estimated delivery: 7–14 business days after processing.
Cost: Calculated at checkout (typically $10–$20).
Note: Tracking is available but may be less detailed than domestic 48‑state shipments.

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3. International Shipping {#international-shipping}

Amber Hearth proudly serves customers in over 40 countries worldwide. We use a combination of USPS International, FedEx International Economy, and DHL eCommerce depending on destination and package weight.

Available Countries & Regions

Not all countries are listed. At checkout, enter your address – if your country appears in the dropdown, we ship there. If not, please email marga.trading.amz@gmail.com – we may be able to add it or arrange a manual quote.

International Shipping Carriers

We select the best carrier for each destination based on speed, reliability, and cost:

• USPS International Priority – Most economical for small packages (under 4 lbs) to most countries. Final delivery by local postal service (e.g., Canada Post, Royal Mail, Australia Post, Deutsche Post).

• FedEx International Economy – Faster (typically 3–6 business days) but more expensive. Used for heavier packages or when customers request a quote.

• DHL eCommerce – Mid‑tier option offering tracking and reliable delivery to over 220 countries.

You will see the carrier at checkout before you pay. If you have a strong preference (e.g., “please use FedEx only”), email us after placing your order – we will do our best to accommodate, though additional charges may apply.

Customs Clearance & Delivery

International packages must clear customs in the destination country before final delivery. Customs processing times vary widely:

• Canada & UK: 1–2 days typically

• EU: 2–5 days (longer since Brexit and new import systems)

• Australia: 2–4 days

• Brazil: 10–30 days (notorious for delays)

We have no control over customs processing. If your package is held for more than 10 business days, please contact your local customs office or postal service with your tracking number.

Tracking for International Orders

Tracking is provided for all international shipments. However, once the package leaves the United States, tracking updates may be less frequent or stop entirely until the package clears customs and is scanned by the local carrier. This is normal. If tracking shows no update for 10+ business days, please contact us – we can open an inquiry with the carrier.

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4. Shipping Costs & How They Are Calculated {#shipping-costs}

We do not add handling fees or “packaging charges.” The shipping cost you see at checkout is exactly what the carrier charges us – we pass it through at cost.

Factors That Determine Shipping Cost

Cost Examples (USA Standard Shipping)

Note: These are estimates. Actual cost will be displayed at checkout before you confirm payment.

Why Shipping Sometimes Seems “Expensive” for a $4 T‑Shirt

We understand it can feel odd to pay $5 shipping on a $4 shirt. However, shipping rates are set by carriers, not by us. The carrier charges the same $4.99 to deliver a $4 shirt as they would to deliver a $40 shirt – weight is the only factor. To make shipping more economical, we recommend:

• Buying multiple shirts – Shipping cost per shirt drops significantly (e.g., 5 shirts for $7.99 shipping = $1.60 per shirt).

• Reaching the free shipping threshold – Spend $50 or more (USA only) to get free standard shipping.

We are constantly negotiating with carriers to lower rates, and we pass every savings to you.

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5. Free Shipping Offer {#free-shipping}

We are pleased to offer free standard shipping on orders shipped within the contiguous United States that meet the following conditions:

How Free Shipping Is Applied

1. Add products to your cart.

2. Apply any coupon codes.

3. If your subtotal (after discounts) is $50 or more, the checkout page will automatically show “Free Shipping” as an option.

4. Select “Free Shipping” and complete your order.

Important: If you use free shipping and later return items that drop your order total below $50, we will deduct the original shipping cost ($4.99–$12.99) from your refund. This prevents abuse of the free shipping offer.

Free Shipping Exclusions

Free shipping does not apply to:

• Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, or any U.S. territory

• International orders (Canada, UK, EU, etc.)

• Expedited shipping (UPS 3-Day, etc.)

• Bulk orders over 20 lbs (we will contact you with a custom quote)

• Orders containing only clearance/final sale items (unless they meet the $50 threshold on their own)

International Customers – Free Shipping?

Not at this time. International shipping costs are significantly higher due to customs clearance, longer distances, and carrier fees. However, we offer flat‑rate shipping discounts for larger international orders (e.g., $20 flat rate for up to 10 shirts to Canada). Contact us for a quote.

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6. Expedited & Express Shipping Options {#expedited-shipping}

For customers who need their shirts faster than standard shipping, we offer expedited options through UPS and FedEx. These services are available only for addresses within the contiguous United States (excluding PO Boxes).

UPS 3-Day Select

FedEx Express Saver

How to Select Expedited Shipping

At checkout, after entering your shipping address, you will see a dropdown menu of available shipping methods. Choose “UPS 3‑Day Select” or “FedEx Express Saver.” The cost will update automatically.

Note: Expedited shipping does not reduce processing time. Your order will still take 1–2 business days to process before the expedited clock starts. If you need truly fast delivery (e.g., next day), please contact us before ordering – we may be able to arrange a custom quote for overnight shipping at significant cost.

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7. Carriers We Use {#carriers}

Amber Hearth works with multiple carriers to ensure the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability. Your order may be shipped via any of the following:

Carrier Selection

We automatically choose the carrier based on:

• Destination address (PO Box? Residential? Commercial?)

• Package weight and dimensions

• Shipping speed selected

• Current carrier performance (e.g., if USPS is experiencing regional delays, we may use UPS)

You cannot manually select a specific carrier (except by choosing expedited options, which typically use UPS/FedEx). If you have a strong carrier preference (e.g., “please always use UPS”), please add a note during checkout or email us immediately after ordering. We will do our best to accommodate, though it may affect shipping cost.

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8. Tracking Your Order {#tracking}

Every Amber Hearth order ships with tracking included at no extra charge (except for certain international economy services where tracking may be limited – we will notify you if that applies).

How to Get Your Tracking Number

1. Shipment confirmation email – As soon as we print the shipping label, you will receive an email from marga.trading.amz@gmail.com containing your tracking number(s) and a direct link to the carrier’s tracking page.

2. Account dashboard – If you created an account, log in and go to “Order History.” Click the order number, then “Track Package.”

3. Track your order page – On our website footer, click “Track Order” and enter your order number and email address.

What Tracking Information Will Show

Tracking Delays & Issues

• No scan for 48+ hours after label creation? – This is normal. Carriers often pick up large volumes and may not scan until the sort facility.

• Tracking shows “delivered” but you don’t have it? – See Section 12 (Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Packages).

• International tracking stops updating? – Common after the package leaves the US. Updates may resume when it clears customs in the destination country.

If you have any concerns about tracking, email marga.trading.amz@gmail.com with your order number and a description of the issue.

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9. Shipping to PO Boxes, APO/FPO/DPO Addresses {#pobox-apo}

We happily ship to PO Boxes (within the USA) and military addresses (APO, FPO, DPO). However, there are important limitations.

PO Boxes (U.S. Postal Service boxes)

To ship to a PO Box: Enter the PO Box address exactly as your post office requires (e.g., “PO Box 1234” in the address line). Our system will automatically route the order through USPS.

APO/FPO/DPO (Military addresses)

Important: For APO/FPO/DPO addresses, you must provide the correct ZIP code and the appropriate “state” (AE, AA, or AP). If the address is formatted incorrectly, USPS may return the package to us, causing delays.

We deeply appreciate your service. If you are stationed overseas and need an order shipped to an APO address, please email us – we will do everything possible to expedite processing.

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10. Shipping Restrictions & Hazardous Materials {#restrictions}

Amber Hearth sells only t‑shirts and apparel – no hazardous materials, liquids, batteries, or restricted items. Therefore, we face few shipping restrictions. However, some destinations have specific import rules:

If your country has specific textile import restrictions (e.g., India, Indonesia, Argentina), please check with your local customs office before ordering. We are not responsible for packages seized or destroyed by customs.

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11. Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Packages {#lost-stolen}

We know how frustrating it is when a package goes missing. While rare, issues do occur. Please read this section carefully to understand your options.

Step 1: Verify Tracking Status

First, check the carrier’s tracking page for the most recent update.

Delivered but Not Received – Action Checklist

1. Wait 2–3 business days – Carriers sometimes mark packages “delivered” early to meet performance metrics, then deliver the next day.

2. Check everywhere – Front porch, back porch, side door, garage, with neighbors, with building management or leasing office, behind bushes, under doormats.

3. Check for delivery photo – UPS, FedEx, and Amazon Logistics often take a photo of where the package was left. View it on the tracking page.

4. Contact the carrier – File a “missing package” claim with USPS, UPS, or FedEx. They may provide additional information.

5. Contact us – Email marga.trading.amz@gmail.com with your order number and a brief description. We will:

   • Verify the shipping address

   • Open a carrier trace (can take 5–10 business days)

   • If the carrier confirms delivery to the correct address, we cannot refund or replace (risk of loss passes to you upon delivery to carrier). However, we will provide a one‑time 20% discount code for a future order as a goodwill gesture.

What We Cover vs. What We Don’t

Recommendation: For valuable orders (over $100), consider shipping to a secure location (your workplace, a UPS Store, or a locker) rather than an exposed porch.

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12. Damaged Packages – What to Do {#damaged-packages}

If your package arrives visibly damaged (crushed, torn, wet, or opened), please follow these steps within 14 days of delivery:

Immediate Actions

1. Take clear photos of:

   • The damaged outer package (show the shipping label and the damage)

   • The damaged product(s) inside

   • The undamaged product(s) for comparison (if any)

2. Do not throw away the package or product – we may need it for a carrier claim.

3. Email us at marga.trading.amz@gmail.com with:

   • Your order number

   • All photos

   • Description of the damage

Our Resolution

After reviewing your photos, we will:

• For minor damage (small tear in package but product intact): Apologize and offer a 10% discount on your next order.

• For product damage (shirt torn, stained, or crushed beyond use): Offer a full refund or free replacement – you keep the damaged shirt or we provide a prepaid return label.

• For severe damage (entire order destroyed): Full refund or replacement, plus we file a claim with the carrier (you may need to save the package for inspection).

Time limit: We must receive damage reports within 14 calendar days of delivery. After that, we cannot file carrier claims and may not be able to offer a refund.

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13. Incorrect Shipping Address – Customer Responsibility {#incorrect-address}

You are responsible for providing a complete and accurate shipping address at checkout. We ship exactly to the address you type.

What Happens If You Enter the Wrong Address?

What We Will Do to Help

• If you notice the error immediately (within 1 hour of placing order): Email us – we may be able to correct the address before the label is printed.

• If the label is already printed but not yet shipped: We can void the label and create a new one (you may be charged a $2 label void fee if the carrier charges us).

• If the package has already shipped: We cannot change the address. You must work with the carrier to request an intercept (fees apply, typically $15–$20). We can initiate the intercept on your behalf, but you pay the fee.

• If the package is returned to us as undeliverable: We will notify you. You can pay for reshipping to the correct address (original shipping cost is non‑refundable).

Undeliverable Packages – Returned to Sender

When a package is returned to us due to an incorrect address, refused delivery, or unclaimed at post office:

1. We will email you with the return notification.

2. You have two options:

   • Reship – Pay the shipping cost again (same rate as original). We will send to a corrected address you provide.

   • Cancel & refund – We will refund the product price minus original shipping cost (since shipping was already used). Return shipping cost back to us is also deducted (typically $3–$5).

We hold returned packages for 30 days. After that, they are donated to charity.

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14. Split Shipments (Multiple Packages) {#split-shipments}

For large orders (typically 10+ shirts) or orders containing items from different warehouse locations, we may split the shipment into multiple packages.

How You Will Know

• You will receive separate shipment confirmation emails for each package, each with its own tracking number.

• The emails will indicate which items are in which package (e.g., “Package 1 of 2: 5 shirts”).

What to Expect

• Packages may arrive on different days – this is normal.

• You will not be charged extra for split shipments; we absorb the additional cost.

If you receive only part of your order and the other part does not arrive within 5 business days of the first package, please contact us – we will track down the missing package.

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15. Holiday & Peak Season Shipping {#holiday-shipping}

During major shopping holidays (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc.), carriers experience significantly higher volume. Please expect:

To ensure delivery by Christmas (December 25):

• Order by December 10 for standard shipping

• Order by December 18 for expedited shipping

We post holiday cutoff dates on our homepage banner each year. Please plan accordingly.

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16. Weather & Unforeseen Delays {#weather-delays}

Carriers may suspend delivery guarantees or significantly delay shipments due to:

• Hurricanes (especially in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Gulf Coast)

• Blizzards / ice storms (Northern states, Midwest, Northeast)

• Wildfires (California, Oregon, Washington)

• Floods, tornadoes, earthquakes

We do not offer refunds for weather delays, as they are outside our control. However, we will:

• Post alerts on our website if we are aware of widespread carrier disruptions.

• Work with you to reship or refund if the delay exceeds 30 days.

If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, we recommend ordering early and selecting expedited shipping (which is prioritized by carriers even during disruptions).

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17. Customs, Duties & Import Taxes (International) {#customs-duties}

This section applies only to international orders (outside the USA).

When you order from Amber Hearth for delivery outside the United States, your package may be subject to customs duties, import taxes, value‑added tax (VAT), goods and services tax (GST), brokerage fees, and other charges imposed by your country’s government.

Who Pays These Fees?

You do. Amber Hearth does not collect customs fees, duties, or taxes at checkout (except where required by law, such as VAT on UK orders under £135). The carrier may require you to pay these fees before releasing your package. If you refuse to pay, the package will be abandoned or returned to us, and you will not receive a refund for the product or shipping.

How Much Will You Pay?

We cannot predict customs fees – they vary by:

• Country – Each country has its own duty rates and de minimis thresholds (the value below which no duty is charged).

• Product category – Apparel typically has duty rates of 10–25% depending on country.

• Value of order – Higher value = higher potential duty.

• Shipping cost – Some countries include shipping in the dutiable value.

Examples of de minimis thresholds:

How to Estimate Fees

Check your country’s customs website or use an online duty calculator. Search for “[your country] import duty calculator” and enter “apparel,” “cotton t‑shirt,” and the order value.

Customs Clearance Delays

Customs may hold your package for days or weeks for inspection. We have no control over this. If your package is held for more than 15 business days, please contact your local customs office with your tracking number.

Prohibited Items

Most countries allow import of cotton t‑shirts. However, some countries have restrictions on:

• Textiles containing certain dyes or chemicals (rare)

• Political or offensive graphics (check your local laws)

• Counterfeit goods (our designs are original – not an issue)

If your country prohibits the design you ordered, the package may be seized and destroyed. No refund will be issued.

Undeliverable International Packages Due to Customs

If you refuse to pay customs fees and the package is abandoned or returned to us:

• We will refund the product price minus original shipping cost minus return shipping cost (charged by carrier, often $15–$30).

• Refunds may take 30–60 days to process (until we physically receive the return).

Recommendation: Before ordering internationally, understand your country’s import fees. If fees are high, consider ordering a smaller quantity or using a local reshipper.

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18. Shipping to U.S. Territories & Freely Associated States {#territories}

We ship to the following U.S. territories and freely associated states via USPS Priority Mail:

Important: Deliveries to these locations can be slow due to limited air freight and reliance on sea transport. We recommend ordering at least 4–6 weeks before you need the items.

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19. Contact Information for Shipping Issues {#shipping-contact}

If you have any questions, concerns, or need to report a shipping problem, please contact us:

Email (fastest): marga.trading.amz@gmail.com
Please include “SHIPPING” in the subject line and your order number in the body.

Phone: +84814592700 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM Mountain Time)
For urgent issues (e.g., wrong address immediately after ordering), calling is best.

Mail (for written correspondence only – not for returns):
Amber Hearth
Attn: Shipping Department
7533 S Center View Ct Ste R
West Jordan, UT, 84084
United States

When emailing about a shipping issue, please provide:

• Your order number

• The full name on the order

• Tracking number (if you have it)

• A clear description of the problem

• Photos (for damage or wrong address issues)

We aim to respond to all shipping inquiries within 4 business hours (often faster). During peak seasons, response may take up to 24 hours.

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Summary – Key Shipping Facts

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Final Note – Our Commitment to You

Shipping is complicated, and despite our best efforts, things occasionally go wrong. When they do, we promise to:

• Respond quickly to your emails and calls

• Investigate thoroughly – we won’t give you the runaround

• Make it right – whether that means reshipping, refunding, or working with the carrier

We are not a faceless corporation. We are real people in West Jordan, Utah, who take pride in getting your orders to you safely and quickly. Thank you for trusting Amber Hearth with your business.

Now, go enjoy your new t‑shirts!