Alpha Fire Gear Shipping & Delivery Policy

At Alpha Fire Gear, we know that when the call comes in, every second counts—which is why we prioritize fast, reliable shipping to get your essential firefighting gear to you without delay. Whether you’re outfitting a department or gearing up as a volunteer, our shipping process is designed for efficiency and transparency. This policy details how we handle orders from our website. Please review it before placing your order to ensure smooth delivery.

Shipping Methods and Carriers

We partner with trusted carriers to deliver your gear securely and swiftly:

  • Standard Shipping: UPS Ground or USPS Priority Mail for most items (2-5 business days within the continental U.S.).
  • Expedited Shipping: UPS 2nd Day Air or Next Day Air for urgent needs (available at checkout for an additional fee).
  • Freight Shipping: For oversized items like turnout gear bundles or bulky equipment, we use freight carriers like FedEx Freight (curbside delivery).

All shipments include tracking and insurance for added peace of mind.

Shipping Times and Estimates

Orders are processed and shipped from our warehouse in Blaze City, CA, within 1-2 business days (Monday-Friday, excluding holidays). Delivery estimates start from the shipment date:

  • Continental U.S.: 2-7 business days for standard; 1-3 for expedited.
  • Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico: 5-10 business days for standard; add 2-3 days for expedited.
  • Custom or Made-to-Order Items (e.g., engraved helmets): 4-8 weeks lead time— we’ll notify you with an exact ETA upon order confirmation.

Please note: Delays may occur due to carrier issues, weather, or high-volume periods like holidays. We’ll keep you updated via email.

Shipping Costs

We aim to keep costs low without compromising speed:

  • Free Standard Shipping: On orders over $150 (continental U.S. only).
  • Flat Rate Under $150: $9.99 for standard ground.
  • Expedited: $25-$75 based on weight and speed.
  • Freight Items: Calculated at checkout based on zip code and item size (starting at $50).
  • International: See below for details.

Taxes are calculated at checkout based on your shipping address. No hidden fees—ever.

International Shipping

We proudly ship worldwide to support firefighters everywhere! However, international orders come with specifics:

  • Available Countries: Most destinations via UPS International or DHL (exclusions: embargoed regions).
  • Rates: Starting at $45 for standard; quoted at checkout.
  • Customs and Duties: You’re responsible for all import duties, taxes, and fees. We’ll declare the exact value for transparency.
  • Delivery Time: 5-14 business days, depending on location.

Pro tip: Check your country’s regulations on protective gear imports to avoid surprises.

Order Tracking and Updates

Stay in the loop every step:

  1. Confirmation Email: Receive order details and estimated ship date immediately after purchase.
  2. Shipment Notification: Get a tracking link once your package leaves our warehouse.
  3. Real-Time Updates: Monitor progress via the carrier’s app or our Order Tracking page.

If your order status hasn’t updated in 48 hours, reach out—we’re on it!

Special Shipping Considerations

Fire gear is built tough, but some items need extra care:

  • Hazardous Materials (e.g., certain cleaners or batteries): Restricted to ground shipping; may incur surcharges or carrier limits.
  • Custom Gear: Ships directly from manufacturers (e.g., Phenix or Cairns) with their lead times— we’ll coordinate seamlessly.
  • Oversized/Fragile Items (e.g., helmets in bulk): Require signature confirmation; residential deliveries may need lift-gate service.
  • Backordered Items: If unavailable, we’ll notify you ASAP and offer alternatives or full refunds.

We do not ship to P.O. Boxes for freight items—street addresses only.

Delivery Restrictions and Issues

  • Signature Required: High-value orders ($500+) need adult signature for security.
  • Undeliverable Packages: If returned to us (e.g., bad address), we’ll refund minus shipping fees and a 10% restocking charge.
  • Lost or Damaged in Transit: File a claim with us within 7 days— we’ll replace or refund promptly, no hassle.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect improvements or carrier changes. Updates will be posted here and effective immediately.

Questions?

Got a rush order or need shipping advice? Our team is ready to assist! Email info@alphafiregear.com or call (555) 123-4567 (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-5 PM PST). We’re here to fuel your fight—let’s get that gear en route today.

Alpha Fire Gear – Delivering Protection, Worldwide.