It's November, and the Holiday Season is fast approaching. To me, that means one thing... Stress!
This week, I've encountered two particularly difficult and demanding customers.
One sent an email asking to purchase playing cards, but complained that he felt the Key West website was "not secure." He wanted photos of the product -- probably to prove I actually have them. Finally satisfied, he emailed saying he'll take them. When I didn't answer instantaneously, he sent a follow up email, essentially saying, "Hurry up." (He never sent his address.)
Honestly, on days like this, I actually consider hanging up my vendor status, shutting down and getting out of the game.
So here's an inside look at the process when you order something from me, either here on PCF or through the website.
Order forms on the Key West website are essentially just a form that sends me an email. You fill it out telling me what you want, where to send it, and how you'd like to pay. When I see you order, I will send an invoice with the correct shipping amount. This may take 12 to 24 hours. (We're not
Amazon.)
Here on PCF, it's easier to PM me with whatever you need. You'll get any PCF discount, and if you're a member here, trust is high.
Packaging your order: We have so many different products of varying sizes and weights that we can't automate shipping. I have to pack your stuff in that "Cinderella" box -- not too small or it won't fit. Not too big, or it costs too much. Some things need some TLC and padding, or they won't make it to you in one piece. Other things don't. (I know most of you know this already.) Sometimes we even need to hunt down a custom box. (Again, not
Amazon.)
You pay, then I'll ship the items, usually the morning after you pay.
Next-day shipping: Packages go out at 8 a.m. each day, and arrive at the U.S. Post Office, UPS or Fed Ex by around 8:30 a.m. Eastern. Order or pay on Saturday or Sunday and your stuff will go out on Monday morning. Holidays will gum up the works for a day. This isn't an extra service. It's what I try to do every time.
Trackng info: After shipping, I'll send you an email with a tracking number, so you'll know exactly where your package is in the process, and when you'll get it.
Shipping transit times: Most things will arrive to U.S. customers in two to three days via Priority Mail or UPS. International orders take a week to 10 days, and sometimes two weeks to travel from the U.S. East Coast to you.
Changes: Changing the items in your order may change the shipping cost. Adding heavy weight or big things will definitely change the shipping cost.
Shipping quotes: I'm happy to offer shipping quotes based on the items in your order and the destination. Adding things after you get a shipping quote may cause shipping to increase. I only charge what the carrier charges me. I don't charge you more than what shipping actually costs.
Another secret of the operation: Our members here are obviously "night people," as the most common time for an order to arrive is 1:30 a.m. As for me, I have a day job and get up at 5 a.m. I check emails early, and throughout the day, even though I might not get back to the office to do your invoice until evening.
But don't worry.
For anyone who is interested, I hope this helps.