Shipping policy

Hi there, friend! Since I run this little Adoption Center all on my own, here’s how shipping works around here:

1. When Will My Order Ship?

  • I carefully pack each order myself. Most orders ship out within 1–7 business days (Monday–Friday), usually on the faster side.

 

  • Sometimes I travel to hamster pop-up events and conventions. When I’m away, orders will wait safely until I return. I’ll always post my event schedule on instagram, pinned to the top of my profile.

 

  • Packages travel by USPS. In the US, this usually takes 3–7 business days once shipped. Holidays and busy seasons may cause delays.

 

  • Expedited shipping is available at checkout if you’re extra excited to meet your new buddy.

 

  • International orders may take longer, and once they leave the US, they’re at the mercy of customs and your local post office.

 

2. Shipping Costs

  • Shipping is calculated at checkout.

 

  • Sometimes I run specials (like free or discounted shipping). If I do, you’ll see it announced!

 

  • Expedited options always cost a little extra.

 

3. Customs & Duties (International Friends)

  • If your country charges customs, taxes, or duties, those are your responsibility.

 

  • Customs can take time, so please be patient if your package is sightseeing at the border.

 

4. Tracking Your Hammy Mail

  • You’ll get a tracking number by email once your order ships.

 

  • Please double-check your shipping address before checking out. If an address is entered incorrectly, I can’t replace the order for free.

 

5. “Delivered” But Not Found (Domestic Orders Only)

If USPS says your package was delivered (even to a parcel locker) but it’s gone missing, here are the steps you’ll need to take before I can send a replacement:

  1. Peek Around
    • Check with neighbors, household members, or your building manager. Sometimes packages get cozy in unexpected places.
  2. Ask USPS for Help
    • File a Missing Mail Report through USPS (online or at your local post office). Keep your confirmation number.
  3. File a Police Report if Needed
    • If you think your package was stolen, please file a report with your local police. Save the report or case number.
  4. Send Me the Info
    • Email me your USPS confirmation and/or police report. Once I have these, I’ll submit a claim with USPS.


6. Timing is Important

 

  • If your package shows as “delivered” but isn’t there, please let me know within 24 hours. If more time passes, I may not be able to help recover it.


7. Replacements for Lost or Stolen Packages (Domestic Only)

 

  • Once the above steps are completed and USPS approves the claim, I’ll happily send a replacement (as long as the item is still in stock).

 

  • The customer is responsible for the new shipping cost on replacement packages.

 

  • If USPS denies the claim, I may only be able to offer store credit or a partial refund.

 

8. International Orders

  • At this time, I can’t replace or refund international packages that are lost, delayed, or stolen once they leave the United States.

 

  • International customers adopt at their own risk of postal adventures.

 

9. A Few Notes

  • Once your package is with USPS, it’s their responsibility to get it to you. I can’t control delays, damages, or loss beyond the process above.

 

  • If the wrong address is entered at checkout, I can’t send a free replacement. Reach out before it is shipped to edit an address.


10. Questions?

 

Email me anytime at info@thebellinghamsters.com. I’ll always do my best to help, within the limits of my abilities.

Thanks so much for understanding! Your kindness helps me keep the Bellinghamsters Adoption Center alive and squeaky.