Shipping Policy

At AquaShop, we understand that timely delivery is crucial for your projects. We offer multiple shipping options to meet your needs and ensure your products arrive safely and on schedule.

1. Shipping Methods & Delivery Times

Standard Shipping

• Cost: $9.99 flat rate for orders under $99
• Delivery Time: 5-7 business days
• Coverage: Available nationwide
• Tracking: Included

Expedited Shipping

• Cost: $19.99
• Delivery Time: 2-3 business days
• Coverage: Available in most areas
• Tracking: Real-time updates

Express Shipping

• Cost: $29.99
• Delivery Time: 1-2 business days
• Coverage: Major metropolitan areas
• Tracking: Real-time updates with SMS notifications

Same-Day Delivery

• Cost: $49.99
• Delivery Time: Same business day (orders before 12 PM)
• Coverage: Select cities only
• Note: Contact us to verify availability in your area

2. Free Shipping

We offer FREE standard shipping on:

• All orders over $99
• Professional contractor accounts (minimum $500/month)
• Promotional periods (watch for special offers)

Free shipping excludes Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories. Additional charges may apply for these locations.

3. Order Processing Time

Orders are typically processed within:

• In-Stock Items: Same business day if ordered before 3:00 PM EST
• After 3:00 PM EST: Next business day
• Weekends & Holidays: Processed on the next business day
• Special Orders: 1-3 business days for processing, plus shipping time

4. Shipping Carriers

We partner with trusted carriers to ensure reliable delivery:

• UPS (United Parcel Service)
• FedEx
• USPS (United States Postal Service)
• Regional carriers for local deliveries
• Freight carriers for large/heavy items

The carrier is selected based on your location, package size, and shipping method chosen.

5. Order Tracking

Track your order easily:

1. You'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking number
2. Click the tracking link in your email
3. Or visit your account dashboard to view order status
4. Enter tracking number on carrier's website for detailed updates

Tracking information is typically available within 24 hours of shipment.

6. Shipping Restrictions

Geographic Restrictions

• We ship to all 50 U.S. states
• P.O. Boxes accepted for small items only
• APO/FPO addresses available with extended delivery times
• International shipping currently not available

Product Restrictions

Some items cannot be shipped via standard methods:

• Hazardous Materials: Special handling required, additional fees may apply
• Oversized Items: Water heaters, large tanks - freight shipping only
• Heavy Items: Items over 150 lbs require freight delivery
• Fragile Items: May require signature upon delivery

7. Large Item & Freight Shipping

For large or heavy items (water heaters, tankless systems, large fixtures):

• Freight shipping quotes provided at checkout
• Delivery to curbside or loading dock
• Inside delivery available for additional fee
• Delivery appointment scheduled in advance
• Commercial locations preferred for large deliveries
• Residential deliveries may incur additional fees

8. Delivery Confirmation

Signature Required

Signature is required for:

• All orders over $500
• Express and same-day deliveries
• Items marked as high-value or fragile

Safe Place Delivery

For standard shipments, if no one is available:

• Carrier will leave package in a safe location
• Photo confirmation may be provided
• Special delivery instructions can be added at checkout

9. Shipping Costs Calculation

Shipping costs are calculated based on:

• Package weight and dimensions
• Delivery destination (shipping zone)
• Selected shipping method
• Any special handling requirements

Final shipping cost will be displayed at checkout before payment.

10. Damaged or Lost Packages

Damaged Shipments

If your package arrives damaged:

1. Take photos of the package and damaged items immediately
2. Note the damage on the delivery receipt if possible
3. Contact us within 48 hours at shipping@aquashop.com
4. Keep all original packaging until claim is resolved
5. We'll arrange for replacement or refund

Lost Shipments

If your package hasn't arrived within expected timeframe:

1. Check tracking information for updates
2. Wait until estimated delivery window has passed
3. Contact us if package is 3+ days late
4. We'll file a claim with the carrier
5. Replacement or refund will be issued once claim is approved

11. Incorrect Address

If you provided an incorrect shipping address:

• Contact us immediately if order hasn't shipped yet
• We can update the address at no charge before shipment
• Once shipped, address changes may incur additional fees
• Returned packages due to incorrect address will be assessed return shipping charges

12. Refused Deliveries

If you refuse a delivery:

• Return shipping charges will be deducted from your refund
• Restocking fees may apply (see our Return Policy)
• Contact us before refusing delivery to discuss alternatives

13. Business vs. Residential Delivery

Commercial/Business Addresses

• Lower shipping rates
• Faster delivery times
• Loading dock delivery available
• Must have business signage and receiving hours

Residential Addresses

• Standard residential delivery rates
• Delivery to front door or garage
• May include additional surcharges for large items

14. Holiday Shipping

During peak holiday seasons:

• Order early for guaranteed delivery
• Processing times may be extended 1-2 days
• Shipping deadlines will be posted on our website
• Carrier delays are beyond our control
• No shipments on major holidays

15. Backorders & Out of Stock Items

If an item is backordered:

• You'll be notified before your order ships
• Options: wait for restock, substitute item, or cancel
• Available items will ship immediately
• No charge for split shipments due to backorders
• Estimated restock dates provided when available

16. Contact Us

For shipping questions or issues:

• Email: shipping@aquashop.com
• Phone: +1 (234) 567-8900
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST