How to Write a Shipping Policy for a Clothing Store
Shoppers check your shipping policy before they buy — vague or hidden shipping info is a top reason carts get abandoned. A clear policy builds confidence and cuts down 'where's my order' support emails. Here's exactly what to put in it.
What to Include
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Sets order-to-ship expectations |
| Delivery estimates | Reduces WISMO emails |
| Shipping costs | Surprise fees kill carts |
| Regions served | Avoids failed orders |
| Tracking info | Buyer reassurance |
Notes
Separate processing time from delivery time. Customers conflate the two and then feel misled. Say clearly: 'Orders ship in 1–2 business days, then arrive in 3–5.' This is especially important if you run pre-orders or make-to-order, where processing is longer.
Be upfront about cost. Unexpected shipping fees at checkout are one of the biggest causes of cart abandonment. State your rates and any free-shipping threshold clearly on the policy page and, ideally, on product pages — surprises at the last step lose sales.
Say where you ship — and where you don't. List the regions you serve and note any you don't, so customers don't complete an order that can't be fulfilled. If you ship internationally, mention that duties/taxes may apply so buyers aren't shocked on delivery.
Tell them how to track. Explain that a tracking link follows once the order ships and where to find it. This single line preempts a large share of 'where is my order' messages that otherwise eat your time as a solo founder.
FAQs
What should a shipping policy include?
Processing time, delivery estimates, shipping costs and any free-shipping threshold, the regions you ship to, and how tracking works. Keep processing and delivery times separate, and be upfront about cost so shoppers aren't surprised at checkout.
Why does a clear shipping policy matter?
Shoppers read it before buying, so vague or hidden shipping info causes cart abandonment. A clear policy builds purchase confidence and cuts down 'where's my order' support emails — a real time-saver for a solo founder.
Should I offer free shipping?
Free shipping lifts conversion, but you must price it into your products or set a minimum-order threshold so it doesn't erase your margin. Many brands build shipping cost into pricing and advertise 'free shipping' above a cart value.
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