What are the challenges and considerations when shopping on iHerb from Canada?

When shopping on iHerb from Canada, key challenges and considerations include shipping restrictions, customs regulations, carrier limitations, and potential delivery issues.

• Shipping Restrictions and Carrier Limitations: iHerb ships from US and international fulfillment centers, but carriers have specific limits on order weight, value, and item types (e.g., liquids or food). Some carriers may not service certain postal codes or regions, and if your order exceeds these limits, preferred shipping methods may be unavailable.

• Customs and Import Regulations: Certain products may be restricted or prohibited by customs laws, preventing checkout if such items are in the cart. It is important to ensure the correct country and currency settings are selected before ordering to avoid issues with local restrictions or price changes.

• Delivery Challenges: International shipments may face delivery delays, failed delivery attempts, or returns. Carriers may hold packages temporarily or require multiple delivery attempts. If a package is returned or lost, refunds are processed only if the order is returned to iHerb’s warehouse. Contacting the carrier directly is recommended for delivery issues.

• Product Damage and Customer Service: There have been reports of damaged items in transit and difficulties reaching customer service for resolution. Some customers experienced multiple replacements due to damage and delays in communication, highlighting potential risks with fragile items and the importance of tracking and follow-up.

In summary, when ordering from iHerb internationally, consider carrier restrictions, customs rules, potential delivery delays or damage, and the need for proactive communication with carriers and customer service to resolve issues effectively.