BFCM Order Expectations: What to Know Before You Shop

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are our busiest time of the year, and as a small business, we want to be transparent about what you can expect once you place an order with us. We work hard to get every package out quickly, but the reality is that the holiday season impacts shipping speeds for everyone—especially when carriers are operating at full capacity.

Below is a clear breakdown of how our process works, what to expect from USPS (our primary carrier), and how to track your package—both domestically and internationally.

We Operate Like a Small Business (Because We Are One)

During BFCM, we receive a surge of orders in a very short time frame. Our team works extended hours to get every order packed and handed off before the published local cutoff times. While we move efficiently, we also prioritize accuracy and care with every package.

Once an order leaves our hands, shipping speed and tracking updates are fully controlled by the carrier.

USPS Holiday Overload: What That Means for Your Package

Every year, USPS experiences a massive influx of shipments during the holiday season. Because of this, there are some common situations customers may encounter:

1. Tracking May Not Update for Days (Sometimes Until After Delivery)

It’s normal for USPS tracking to show no movement—even after the package has been accepted.
We’ve seen situations where a package is delivered before USPS ever updates the tracking page.

2. Unexplained Delays Can Occur

Packages sometimes stop moving for several days without explanation. This is largely due to carrier volume, not an issue with your order or our shipping process.

3. Your Shipping Confirmation Email Means USPS Has the Package

Our system only sends shipment confirmations once your order has been scanned and received by USPS.
From there, tracking updates are controlled entirely by the carrier.

What We Can (and Can’t) Do When a Package Appears Stalled

We’re always happy to look into concerns and see what information is available. However:

• 90% of the time, we are simply waiting on USPS to show movement.

• Until the carrier updates the tracking, we have no more insight or control over the package than what you see online.

Rest assured—we monitor stuck shipments, and if a package fails to move for an extended period, we can escalate with USPS.

International Customers: How to Track and What to Expect

For customers outside the United States, here’s how tracking and delivery typically work:

Domestic Tracking First

Our tracking system follows your package while it’s inside the United States. After it leaves the country:

• Tracking may stop updating on the USPS page.

• You can take the same tracking number and enter it into your local postal carrier’s website once the package arrives in your country.

Often, local carriers will show more detailed scans than the U.S. system.

Customs Delays

Once your package arrives in your country, it may be held for customs inspection.
Please note:

• Customs processing is completely out of our control.

• Customs agents in your country determine when shipments are inspected and released.

• Delays can range from a few days to several weeks depending on workload, regulations, holidays, and local procedures.

We cannot expedite, influence, or receive updates during this period beyond what tracking displays.

If a Package Is Ultimately Lost

Lost packages do happen, though it’s rare. When it does occur:

• It can take several weeks to a few months to confirm whether a package is officially classified as lost by the carrier.

• We must wait for the carrier’s investigation and resolution before we can process replacements or claims.

• We will keep you updated throughout the process and handle any next steps as soon as USPS provides direction.

Thank You for Supporting Small Business

BFCM is an exciting (and intense!) time for small shops like ours. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as carriers handle an overwhelming volume of holiday shipments. Your support allows us to keep doing what we love, and we’re committed to getting your order to you as quickly and safely as possible.

If you ever have questions or concerns, we’re always here to help.