Welcome to Anantriksh! This Shipping Guidelines Policy outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both sellers and buyers regarding the shipment of items purchased on our platform. We aim to ensure a transparent, efficient, and reliable shipping experience for everyone.

By listing items or making a purchase on Anantriksh, you agree to adhere to the terms outlined in this policy.

1. General Shipping Principles

  • Transparency: Sellers must clearly state their shipping policies, costs, and estimated delivery times on their product listings.

  • Promptness: Sellers are expected to ship items promptly after a purchase is made, within the timeframe specified in their listing.

  • Reliability: Items should be securely packaged and shipped using reliable methods to minimize damage or loss during transit.

  • Communication: Both sellers and buyers are encouraged to communicate proactively regarding any shipping delays or issues.

2. For Sellers: Shipping Responsibilities & Best Practices

Sellers are primarily responsible for ensuring items are shipped correctly and reach the buyer in good condition.

2.1 Listing Requirements

  • Accurate Shipping Costs: Sellers must provide accurate shipping costs. Do not overcharge Anantriksh for shipping.

  • Estimated Delivery Times: Clearly state the estimated delivery timeframe for each shipping option offered. This includes both processing time (time to prepare the order for shipment) and transit time (time in transit with the carrier).

  • Shipping Origin: Clearly state the location from which the item will be shipped.

2.2 Order Processing & Fulfillment

  • Processing Time: Ship orders within the processing time stated in your listing. We recommend a processing time of 1-3 business days for most items. If you require more time, clearly state this.

  • Packaging:

    • Package items securely to prevent damage during transit. Use appropriate packaging materials (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, sturdy boxes).

    • Ensure fragile items are clearly marked.

    • Protect items from moisture if necessary.

  • Shipping Labels: Use clear, legible shipping labels with accurate recipient and sender addresses.

  • Tracking Information:

    • Mandatory: For all shipments, sellers must provide valid tracking information to the buyer via Anantriksh’s order management system as soon as the item is shipped.

    • Tracking information allows buyers to monitor their package's progress and helps resolve potential delivery issues.

  • Proof of Shipment: Retain proof of shipment (e.g., shipping receipts, tracking number) until the order is successfully delivered and the transaction is complete.

2.3 Shipping Costs & Fees

  • Transparency: All shipping costs should be transparent and clearly displayed to the buyer before purchase.

  • Combined Shipping: If you offer combined shipping for multiple items, clearly state your policy and how discounts are applied.

  • Handling Fees: If you charge a handling fee, it must be reasonable and clearly disclosed as part of the total shipping cost.

2.4 Delivery Issues & Lost/Damaged Items

  • Delivery Confirmation: Sellers are responsible for ensuring the item is delivered to the address provided by the buyer.

  • Lost Shipments: If a shipment is lost in transit (as confirmed by tracking), sellers are generally responsible for either issuing a full refund or shipping a replacement item to the buyer, at the buyer's preference. We recommend sellers purchase shipping insurance for valuable items.

  • Damaged Items: If an item arrives damaged due to insufficient packaging, the seller is responsible for resolving the issue (e.g., refund, replacement). Buyers should provide photographic evidence of damage.

  • Incorrect Address: If a package is undeliverable due to an incorrect address provided by the buyer, the seller is not typically responsible for the re-shipment cost. The buyer may be responsible for additional shipping charges or the original shipping cost may be non-refundable.

3. For Buyers: Shipping Expectations & Responsibilities

Buyers also play a role in ensuring a smooth shipping experience.

  • Review Shipping Information: Before purchasing, carefully review the seller's stated shipping costs, methods, and estimated delivery times.

  • Provide Accurate Address: Ensure your shipping address is complete and accurate at the time of purchase. Anantriksh is not responsible for items shipped to incorrect addresses provided by the buyer.

  • Monitor Tracking: Use the provided tracking information to monitor your package's progress.

  • Receive Package: Be available to receive your package or make arrangements for its safe delivery.

  • Inspect Upon Arrival: Upon receiving your order, inspect the package and its contents immediately.

  • Report Issues Promptly: If an item arrives damaged, is not as described, or does not arrive within the estimated timeframe, contact the seller first to resolve the issue. If unable to resolve with the seller, follow Anantriksh's dispute resolution process. Provide photographic evidence for damaged items.

  • Customs & Duties (International Purchases): If you are purchasing internationally, you are typically responsible for any applicable import duties, taxes, or customs fees levied by your country's customs authorities. These charges are separate from the item price and shipping cost and are usually collected by the shipping carrier upon delivery.

4. Anantriksh's Role in Shipping

  • Platform Tools: We provide tools for sellers to manage orders, print shipping labels (if integrated), and update tracking information.

  • Dispute Resolution: In cases of unresolvable shipping issues between buyers and sellers, Anantriksh offers a dispute resolution process to mediate and help reach a fair outcome.

  • Policy Enforcement: We enforce this Shipping Guidelines Policy to ensure a fair and reliable marketplace for all users.

5. Special Shipping Considerations

  • Restricted/Prohibited Items: No shipping services may be used for items listed in our Prohibited Items Policy.

  • Fragile/Perishable Items: Sellers of fragile or perishable goods must take extra precautions for packaging and may need to use expedited shipping methods.

  • Large/Heavy Items: For oversized or extremely heavy items, sellers must clearly communicate special shipping arrangements (e.g., freight, local pickup only).

6. Policy Updates

Anantriksh reserves the right to modify this Shipping Guidelines Policy at any time. We will notify users of significant changes through our website or via email. Your continued use of our platform after such modifications constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.