Delivery & Returns

Customer Delivery Instructions
These are short, clear notes a customer provides to the carrier (e.g., USPS, UPS, DHL) to ensure successful delivery. They can be added during the checkout process or via a carrier's website after ordering. 
  • Delivery Location: "Please leave the package on the front porch behind the potted plant" or "Deliver to the back door".
  • Access Information: "Gate code #1234, please call if issues arise".
  • Availability/Timing: "Please only deliver after 4 PM when someone is home" or "Preferred delivery time is between 9 AM and 12 PM".
  • Handling Requests: "Fragile, handle with care" or "Do not bend".
  • Unattended Delivery: "Unattended delivery OK". 

Business Shipping & Delivery Policies/Documents
For businesses, shipping instructions are formal documents used for various stages of the logistics process. 

E-commerce Shipping Policy (for customers)
A public-facing policy outlines the terms of delivery to set clear expectations with customers. Key elements often include: 
  • Order Processing Time: "Orders are typically processed within 1-2 business days".
  • Shipping Rates & Methods: "Standard Shipping (3-5 days): $5.99; Express Shipping (1-2 days): $15.99".
  • Restrictions: "We currently only ship to addresses within the U.S. and Canada".
  • Tracking: "A shipment confirmation email with tracking information will be sent once your order has shipped".
  • Customs/Duties (if international): "Customers are responsible for any customs and duties fees applied to international shipments". 

Internal/Carrier Shipping Instructions (S/I) (for logistics partners) 
This document is provided to the carrier or freight forwarder to create the Bill of Lading and manifest the cargo. It contains essential information such as: 
  • Shipper & Consignee Details: Full name, address, and contact information for both parties.
  • Cargo Description: Accurate description of goods, quantity, weight (Verified Gross Mass/VGM), and package type.
  • Logistics Details: Port of Loading (POL), Port of Discharge (POD), vessel name/voyage number, and container numbers/seal numbers.
  • Payment Terms: Clearly state who is responsible for freight charges.