Analyze specialty food terms for perishable shipping risks, no-return policies, and what happens when your $100 cheesecake arrives melted.
Perishable food shipped across the country has unique risks. Know who's responsible when things go wrong.
Most specialty food is final sale. Don't like the taste? Too bad. Not what you expected? Still yours. Returns only for damaged or spoiled items.
Carrier delays that spoil food may not be the seller's problem. Once it leaves their hands, it's between you and the shipping company.
Claim your food arrived spoiled? You'll need photos within hours of delivery. Some require you to keep the product for inspection.
Frozen items can't ship everywhere, especially in summer. Your address may be restricted, or you'll pay $50+ for expedited cold shipping.
Out of the item you ordered? They may substitute "comparable" items. Your prosciutto becomes salami, your aged cheddar becomes regular.
Gift orders that arrive damaged reflect on you, not the company. Limited visibility into gift delivery status creates awkward situations.
Paste the terms of sale to understand perishable shipping and return policies.