Shipping and Returns Policy

 

At Top Whiskey Joint (operating as topwhiskeyjoint.com, “we,” “us,” or “our”), we strive to make your whiskey shopping experience smooth and reliable. This Shipping and Returns Policy outlines our procedures for shipping products and handling returns. By placing an order, you agree to these terms.

Please note: This is a sample Shipping and Returns Policy template tailored for an e-commerce site like Top Whiskey Joint, which sells whiskey and related products. We are not legal experts, and this is for informational purposes only. We strongly recommend consulting a qualified attorney to customize and review this policy to ensure it complies with applicable laws, such as alcohol shipping regulations (e.g., state-specific restrictions, federal TTB rules), consumer protection laws, or other regional requirements.

1. Shipping Overview

We ship whiskey and related products (e.g., 1792 Small Batch Bourbon, Moonshine, or tasting accessories) to eligible addresses within the United States. Due to strict alcohol regulations, we cannot ship internationally or to certain states, counties, or PO boxes where direct-to-consumer alcohol sales are prohibited (e.g., “dry” areas). Availability is determined at checkout based on your shipping address.

  • Eligible Shipping Areas: All 50 states, except where prohibited by law (e.g., Utah, Alabama for certain products). We reserve the right to cancel orders to restricted areas.
  • Age Verification: You must be 21+ (or the legal drinking age in your state) to receive shipments. Signature and government-issued ID are required upon delivery for all alcohol orders. Failure to verify age may result in the package being returned to us at your expense.
  • Prohibited Items: We do not ship to military bases, APO/FPO addresses, or locations without a physical street address.

2. Shipping Methods and Costs

We partner with licensed carriers experienced in alcohol transport to ensure safe and compliant delivery:

  • Carrier: Primarily UPS (or FedEx where required by state law) with adult signature confirmation.
  • Shipping Speeds:
    • Standard: 3-7 business days (most common and cost-effective).
    • Expedited: 1-3 business days (additional fee applies).
  • Costs: Calculated at checkout based on order weight, value, and destination. Flat rates start at $15 for standard shipping; free shipping on orders over $150 (pre-tax). Expedited options range from $25-$50.
  • Taxes and Fees: Sales tax is added based on your shipping state. Additional fees may apply for remote locations or high-value orders.

Shipping times do not include processing time (1-2 business days). We ship Monday-Friday; orders placed after 2 PM ET may ship the next business day. Holidays and carrier disruptions may cause delays.

3. Order Tracking and Delivery

Once your order ships, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. Track your package via the carrier’s website or our account dashboard. If your package is delayed or lost, contact us at info@topwhiskeyjoint.com within 7 days of the expected delivery date. We are not responsible for delays caused by weather, carrier issues, or incorrect addresses—double-check your details at checkout!

Risk of loss transfers to you upon delivery to the carrier. We recommend insuring high-value shipments (available at checkout).

4. Returns and Refunds

Due to the perishable and regulated nature of alcohol, returns are limited and subject to strict guidelines. We want you to love your whiskey, so we carefully describe products (e.g., flavor profiles for high-rye bourbons), but all sales are final on opened bottles.

  • Eligible Returns: Unopened, undamaged, and resealed products (e.g., full, factory-sealed bottles) within 14 days of delivery. Accessories (e.g., glasses) may be returned if unused.
  • Ineligible Items: Opened or partially consumed alcohol, custom-engraved bottles, perishable items, or products damaged due to improper handling.
  • Return Process:
    1. Contact us at info@topwhiskeyjoint.com within 14 days of delivery for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number.
    2. Ship the item back to us (prepaid by you) within 7 days of RMA issuance, using the provided label if available.
    3. Address: Top Whiskey Joint Returns, 1500 Broadway #500, New York, NY 10018.
  • Refunds: Issued to your original payment method within 7-10 business days of receiving and inspecting the return. Shipping costs are non-refundable, and a 15% restocking fee may apply to alcohol returns. Damaged returns will not be refunded.

If you receive a damaged, defective, or incorrect item, contact us immediately (within 48 hours of delivery) with photos for a free replacement or full refund, at our discretion.

5. Cancellations

Orders can be canceled before they ship by emailing info@topwhiskeyjoint.com. Once shipped, cancellations are not possible—refer to our Returns section instead.

6. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in carrier partnerships, regulations, or our practices. We’ll notify you via email or site notice for material changes, with the updated date at the top.

7. Contact Us

Have questions about shipping or returns? We’re here to help:

  • Email: info@topwhiskeyjoint.com
  • Phone: +1 (559) 492 6548
  • Address: 1500 Broadway #500, New York, NY 10018, United States

Thank you for choosing Top Whiskey Joint. Safe travels for your bottles—sip responsibly!