Shipping policy

### Shipping Policy for GPAAstore.com

At GPAAstore.com, the official online store of the Gold Prospectors Association of America (GPAA), we strive to deliver your gold prospecting gear, paydirt, apparel, and other products promptly and securely. This Shipping Policy outlines our shipping methods, rates, delivery times, and related information. Please review it carefully before placing an order. By purchasing from us, you agree to the terms outlined below.

#### 1. Shipping Destinations
- **Domestic Shipping**: We ship to all 50 U.S. states, including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as U.S. territories (e.g., Puerto Rico, Guam).
- **International Shipping**: We offer shipping to select international destinations, including Canada, Australia, and most countries in Europe. Availability may vary based on product restrictions and customs regulations. For countries not listed at checkout, please contact customer support at websupport@goldprospectors.org for assistance.
- **Restrictions**: We do not ship to P.O. boxes for certain heavy or oversized items (e.g., large paydirt bags or mining equipment). Some products, such as paydirt containing natural materials, may be subject to import/export restrictions in certain countries. It is your responsibility to verify compliance with local laws.

#### 2. Shipping Methods and Carriers
We partner with reliable carriers to ensure safe delivery:
- **Standard Shipping**: USPS Priority Mail or UPS Ground (3-7 business days for domestic orders).
- **Expedited Shipping**: UPS 2nd Day Air or USPS Priority Express (1-3 business days for domestic orders).
- **International Shipping**: USPS International or UPS Worldwide (7-21 business days, depending on destination).
Shipping options and estimated delivery times will be displayed at checkout based on your location and order weight/volume. For bulky items like Gold Cube kits or large paydirt bundles, we may use freight services.

#### 3. Shipping Rates
- **Calculation**: Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the total weight, dimensions, and destination of your order. Rates are provided in real-time by our carriers.
- **Flat Rates**: For smaller items like apparel or accessories, flat-rate shipping starts at $5.99 for domestic orders.
- **International Rates**: Starting at $25.00, varying by country and order size. Duties, taxes, and customs fees are not included in our shipping rates and are the responsibility of the recipient.
- **Memberships**: GPAA memberships may include digital components (e.g., access codes) delivered via email immediately upon purchase. Physical membership kits (e.g., cards, guides) are shipped via standard methods.

Note: Shipping rates are subject to change without notice due to carrier adjustments or fuel surcharges.

#### 4. Order Processing and Delivery Times
- **Processing Time**: Most orders are processed and shipped within 1-2 business days after payment confirmation. Orders placed after 2:00 PM PST or on weekends/holidays will be processed the next business day.
- **Estimated Delivery**: 
  - Domestic: 3-7 business days for standard shipping.
  - International: 7-21 business days, plus any customs processing time.
- **Delays**: While we aim to meet these timelines, delays may occur due to high order volume, weather, holidays, or carrier issues. We are not responsible for delays beyond our control.
- **Tracking**: A tracking number will be emailed to you once your order ships. You can track your package via the carrier's website.

#### 5. Lost or Damaged Packages
- **Lost Packages**: If your package is marked as delivered but you haven't received it, contact us within 7 days. For undelivered packages, we'll file a claim with the carrier and provide a replacement or refund once resolved (typically 10-14 days).
- **Damaged Items**: Inspect your package upon arrival. If items are damaged, contact us within 48 hours with photos of the packaging and products. We'll arrange for a replacement or refund.
- **Insurance**: Shipments may be insured up to their value.

#### 6. Address Accuracy
Please ensure your shipping address is complete and accurate at checkout. We are not responsible for packages shipped to incorrect addresses provided by the customer. If a package is returned due to an address error, you may be charged for reshipping.

#### 7. Changes and Cancellations
- Orders can be modified or canceled within 1 hour of placement by contacting websupport@goldprospectors.org.
- Once shipped, orders cannot be changed, but you may be able to redirect via the carrier (fees may apply).

#### 8. Contact Us
For any shipping-related questions, email websupport@goldprospectors.org or call 1-800-551-9707 (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM PST).

This policy was last updated on December 3, 2025. We reserve the right to update it at any time. For returns and refunds, please refer to our separate Returns Policy.

Thank you for shopping with GPAAstore.com – happy prospecting!