Shipping

Shipping Policy for UK Mainland Ecommerce Operations

Implementing a granular shipping policy aligned with Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 and UK-specific logistics frameworks ensures compliance while maintaining Beckenham-based customer satisfaction.

Scope of Service

This policy applies exclusively to shipments within United Kingdom Mainland, defined as England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland excluding offshore territories. Non-mainland destinations including Isle of Wight (PO30-PO41), Scottish Islands (HS, KW15-KW17), and Channel Islands require individual quotation requests.

Geographical Exclusions

The following postcodes necessitate direct customer consultation prior to order placement:
HS, IV55–IV56, KA27–KA28, KW15–KW17, PA20, PA41–PA49, PA60–PA78, PH41–PH44, ZE, IM, TR21–TR25, PO30–PO41.

Order Processing Protocol

Standard Processing Timeline

Orders received before 15:00 GMT are processed within [X] business days, excluding weekends and bank holidays. Expedited processing available for [Y] fee with [Z] hour dispatch guarantee.

Inventory Verification

All items undergo:

  1. Barcode authentication
  2. Cosmetic inspection
  3. Security tagging (where applicable)
  4. Automated customs documentation generation

Shipping Cost Structure

Delivery TierPriceService LevelCarrier OptionsEconomy£[A]3-5 business daysRoyal Mail, HermesStandard£[B]2-3 business daysDPD, UPSExpress£[C]Next business dayDHL, Parcelforce

Free shipping thresholds:

  • £[D] for economy service
  • £[E] for standard service

Delivery Management

Tracking Implementation

All shipments include:

  • Real-time GPS tracking via [Carrier API Integration]
  • SMS/email notifications at key stages:Dispatch confirmationOut-for-delivery alertSuccessful delivery confirmation

Failed Delivery Protocol

Three delivery attempts followed by:

  1. Local depot holding for [F] days
  2. Return-to-sender processing fee of £[G]
  3. Store credit issuance minus restocking fee

Special Handling Requirements

Restricted Items

Prohibited from standard shipping:

  • Lithium batteries exceeding [H] Wh
  • Perishables requiring < [I]°C storage
  • Items exceeding [J] kg/[K]**cm dimensions

Hazardous Materials

Specialist courier arrangements mandatory for:

  • Flammable liquids (UN Class 3)
  • Oxidizing substances (UN Class 5.1)
  • Toxic materials (UN Class 6.1)

Custom Shipping Solutions

For non-mainland UK destinations or exceptional requirements:

  1. Complete [Online Custom Shipping Form]
  2. Receive bespoke quotation within [L] hours
  3. Approve surcharges via secure payment link

Contact:
[UK Shipping Helpline]
[Dedicated Shipping Email]
In-person consultations at [Address]

This policy meets ICO GDPR Guidelines and Consumer Rights Act 2015 requirements. Reviewed quarterly against Department for Business and Trade shipping sector updates. Last modified: [Insert Date].

Returns

We have a [ADJUST TIME PERIOD] 14-day return policy, which means you have [ADJUST TIME PERIOD] 14 days after receiving your item to request a return. 

[ADJUST THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS]
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. 

To start a return, you can contact us at [INSERT RETURN EMAIL]. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: [INSERT RETURN ADDRESS] 

If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted. 

You can always contact us for any return question at [INSERT RETURN EMAIL]. 


Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.


Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item. 

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.


Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.


European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.


Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too. 
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at xxx@thehomesteadcafe.co.uk.