Shipping Policy

- Your first template is free
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
If you run an ecommerce business you may many emails from customers who are wondering when their items will be delivered or how much shipping will cost. Rather than answer the same question hundreds or thousands of times, you can create a shipping policy. Find out what a shipping policy is below and where you can find professional templates to simplify the process.
A shipping policy is a document that outlines information regarding shipping. It will detail shipping costs, methods, delivery times and anything else related to shipping. The aim of a shipping policy is to protect you as a business owner and to inform your customers about your shipping method.
While a shipping policy isn't legally required, it's definitely recommended for ecommerce businesses. If you sell and ship products to customers, having a clear shipping policy in place will encourage customers to trust you more. It will also stop customers asking questions about the shipping process and timeframe.
A shipping policy lets customers know how their product will be delivered. A returns policy lets customers know what options they have once the product has been delivered and they wish to send it back. Sometimes the two are combined into one document, but they are usually separated.
A well-written shipping policy is essential if you want your business to thrive. It will make your customers happy and boost your conversion rate.
An effective shipping policy can help to do the following:
No. A shipping policy is not a legal document so a lawyer is not required. If you are concerned about writing an effective shipping policy, you can use an online template service and then have a legal professional read over your draft.
A shipping policy needs to be concise but highlight all the essential information a customer needs to know. All the language needs to be clear and easy to understand. A shipping policy should address any concerns or queries customers might have about shipping.
Use a conversational tone when you write your shipping policy. Avoid using legal terminology or harsh language like "you must". Try to keep the tone positive, don't start every sentence with the word no or make it sound like you're scolding your customers.
If you're inexperienced in writing up policies, putting together a shipping policy can be daunting. This is where a shipping policy template might be useful. Here's where to find some online:
Where do I display my shipping policy?
A shipping policy is usually linked to on the footer of your website. The shipping policy is generally located in the same locations as the returns and privacy policies.
You can add a link of your shipping policy during the checkout process and recommend customers read it. This means they know what they are getting before purchase, and will minimise the amount of customer service emails you will receive from customers waiting for their products. In mobile apps, include a link to the shipping policy in the menu alongside other policy links.
Is the shipping policy part of the terms and conditions?
The terms and conditions page is generally a longer page which covers not only shipping but many other aspects related to using your service. Customers rarely read the whole terms and conditions section, which is why many businesses separate their shipping policy from the rest of their terms and conditions.
Should customers be emailed the shipping policy?
Many businesses include a link to the shipping policy in their confirmation email, and any other emails related to dispatch or delivery of their product. This gives customers easy access without having to go onto your website and find the policy.
Today's best Finder Daily deals include: $1,250 off electric bikes, $70 off Nintendo Switch, $30 off Logitech G PRO X Lightspeed headsets.
Binance and Coinbase are two titans of cryptocurrency – let's see how the two stack up and find out which suits your needs.
Beat the banks, find the best exchange rates and avoid fees when you send money abroad from Australia.
Quality. Variety. Freshness. Get gourmet meals delivered directly to your door with Chefgood.
Discover exactly what you need to know about leaving Australia.
Finder's submission in response to the Inquiry into Future Directions for the Consumer Data Right.
Learn about how TransferMate’s personal product works and what it can do for you.
Here’s where you can gain qualifications in hospitality at your own pace with an online course.
How to find safe, secure and affordable boat storage near you.
Discover the main differences between two leading DNA testing services, from pricing to privacy.