How To Create Shopify Shipping Policy: The Complete Know-How

Creating a shipping policy is crucial to help your customers know your business and stay clear of any future legal implications (if any). Utilizing a policy generator can make this process effortless by providing step-by-step guidance and customization options to create a comprehensive shipping policy tailored to your business needs.
How To Create Shopify Shipping Policy: The Complete Know-How
3 Min Read
September 17, 2025
Ben
3 min read
Sep 17, 2025

Key points:

  • This detailed guide outlines shipping costs, delivery timelines, and processes to improve transparency and build customer trust. 
  • A clear policy is important because it reduces customer complaints, boosts conversions, and establishes credibility, which is crucial for growing your eCommerce store profitably. 
  • Learn how to create, optimize, and publish a shipping policy that answers FAQs, improves loyalty, and reduces workload. 
  • Transparent policies cut support inquiries, improve order processing clarity, and help you avoid disputes with clearly defined terms and conditions. 
  • Explore top Shopify shipping policy templates and real-life examples to craft a policy that aligns with your store’s unique needs.

Shipping is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful eCommerce business. Your customers want to know precisely how their orders will be handled, what it will cost, and when they can expect delivery. 

A clear, transparent Shopify shipping policy can help answer these questions, reduce customer support inquiries, and increase conversions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating a Shopify shipping policy that works for your business and customers.

What Is a Shopify Shipping Policy?

A Shopify shipping policy is a page or document that outlines your store’s shipping practices, costs, and timelines. It’s a roadmap for your customers, helping them understand what to expect when they order from you. This policy covers everything from shipping costs and methods to the delivery process, including delivery timelines, returns, and international shipping rules.

For example, a clear shipping policy might inform customers that your store offers free shipping on orders over $75, standard shipping with a 5-7 business day delivery window and expedited options for an additional fee. It also details how your store handles lost packages or international duties. This clarity builds trust and sets the tone for a positive shopping experience.

Why Is a Shopify Shipping Policy Essential for Your Store?

A shipping policy sets the foundation for all your deliveries, transactions, and everything in between. However, that’s a minimal view of why you need one — here’s a deep dive. 

1. Builds Customer Trust

Ecommerce stores must prioritize transparency to earn trust. A well-written shipping policy ensures customers understand your shipping process, eliminating surprises that might otherwise lead to dissatisfaction. It shows you’re reliable and professional.

2. Improves Customer Experience

Customers frequently ask about shipping costs, delivery times, and return policies. A comprehensive shipping policy answers these questions upfront, saving you and your customers time. Using tables to manage customer expectations by clearly communicating delivery timelines and key information can reduce complaints and improve satisfaction.

3. Enhances Conversion Rates

Online shoppers are more likely to complete their purchases when they know exactly how much shipping will cost and when their order will arrive. Highlighting your policy's free shipping thresholds or direct delivery options can nudge customers toward checking out. 

Additionally, you can upsell free shipping offers by promoting membership programs that provide benefits like cheaper shipping rates, which can further enhance profitability.

4. Protects Your Business

A shipping policy clearly defines your responsibilities and limits. For example, if a customer’s package is delayed due to a carrier issue, your policy can explain that delays are out of your control while providing guidance for resolution.

Key Elements of an Effective Shopify Shipping Policy

There are a few non-negotiables for your Shopify shipping policy to make it bulletproof for your business operations.  

1. Shipping Costs

Clearly state how much customers can expect to pay for shipping. Break down costs by shipping method (e.g., standard vs. expedited) and include any free shipping thresholds. 

For example:

  • Standard shipping: $5.99 (free for orders over $75)
  • Expedited shipping: $12.99

Transparency about costs prevents customers from feeling blindsided at checkout.

2. Delivery Times

Provide clear estimates for delivery timelines. For example:

  • Standard shipping: 5-7 business days
  • Expedited shipping: 1-2 business days

Include details about order processing times, such as, “Orders placed before 3 PM EST will ship the same day.” Specify if weekends or holidays are excluded.

3. Shipping Restrictions

Highlight any geographic or product-specific restrictions. For instance, if you don’t ship to certain states or countries, list them. This helps customers understand upfront whether they can place an order.

4. Returns and Refunds

Include details about your return and refund policies. Outline eligibility criteria (e.g., items must be unused and returned within 30 days) and clarify whether customers are responsible for return shipping fees.

5. Order Tracking

Explain how customers can track their packages. For example, “Once your order ships, you’ll receive an email with a tracking link.” Mention which carriers you use and how customers can contact support if there are issues.

6. International Shipping

If you ship internationally, include information about your international shipping policy, such as duties, taxes, and additional fees. For example, clarify whether these costs are included in the shipping price or if customers will pay them upon delivery.

With Easyship, you can calculate your customs and tax rates at the click of a button!

7. Insurance Options

Offer optional shipping insurance for high-value items. Let customers decide to protect their orders against loss or damage during transit.

How to Create a Shopify Shipping Policy

Creating a Shopify shipping policy is straightforward, especially if you know the basic functions. However, it is pretty easy to navigate even if you are a new user. 

Step 1: Log into Shopify Admin

Start by logging into your Shopify admin dashboard. Navigate to Online Store > Settings in the lower-left corner.

Step 2: Add a Shipping Policy

Click Policies under the settings menu. You’ll find a text box for entering your shipping policy. Write your policy directly in the box or paste it if you’ve created it elsewhere.

Step 3: Format and Review

Use Shopify’s built-in editor to format your text with headings, bullet points, or tables. For example, create a table to display shipping methods, costs, and delivery times side by side. 

Ensure your policy is clear and easy to read by breaking down your policy across multiple pages. 

This approach helps cater to different customer needs, such as providing additional details on a main shipping page and supporting pages like an FAQ page for international customers.

Step 4: Publish and Link

Click ‍ to publish your policy. Add links to the policy in your site’s footer, FAQ section, product pages, and checkout flow for maximum visibility.

Try Out the Shopify Shipping Policy Generator on Easyship!

Easyship’s Shipping Policy generator is here to help you simplify this process. 

All you have to do is punch in your answers to the questions on the website, which will generate your policy almost immediately!

Here’s a simple tutorial that offers a quick overview of what the Easyship policy generator looks like!

If you want to create a shipping policy for your Shopify store or any other eCommerce store, Easyship’s policy generator is here to help.

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Check out our free tool today!

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Communicating Your Shipping Policy to Customers

Effectively communicating your shipping policy is crucial to ensure customers understand how their orders will be shipped and what to expect. 

Here are some strategies to make your shipping policy clear and accessible:

1. Display Your Shipping Policy Clearly

Ensure your shipping policy is easily accessible on your website, preferably on a dedicated shipping policy page. This helps customers quickly find the information they need without any hassle.

2. Use Simple Language

Avoid technical jargon or complicated terms that might confuse customers. Use straightforward, simple language that is easy to understand, ensuring clarity for all customers.

3. Provide Detailed Information

Include all relevant details about your shipping policy, such as shipping costs, delivery times, and return policies. This transparency helps manage customer expectations and reduces potential misunderstandings.

4. Use Visual Aids

Consider using tables, charts, or infographics to present your shipping policy. Visual aids can help customers quickly grasp key information, such as shipping methods, costs, and delivery times.

5. Make It Mobile-Friendly

Optimize your shipping policy page for mobile devices. Many customers will access your site on their smartphones, so a mobile-friendly design ensures they can easily read and understand your policy on any device.

Shopify Shipping Policy Checklist

A shipping policy checklist ensures that you set clear customer expectations. These are essential for a positive shopping experience. 

  • State Delivery Times: Provide estimated delivery times for each shipping option. For example, specify that standard shipping takes 5-7 business days while expedited shipping takes 1-2 business days. This helps customers know when to expect their orders.
  • Explain Shipping Costs: Clearly outline shipping costs and any additional fees. For instance, it mentions that standard shipping costs $5.99 but is free for orders over $75. This transparency prevents customers from being surprised by extra charges at checkout.
  • Describe Packaging and Handling: Explain how orders will be packaged and handled. For example, mention that items are securely packaged to prevent damage during transit. This helps customers understand what to expect when their order arrives.
  • Outline Return and Refund Policies: Clearly state your return and refund policies. For example, specify that items must be returned within 30 days in their original condition for a refund. This clarity helps customers know what to do to return an item.
  • Describe International Shipping Options (If Applicable): Include information about international shipping, such as additional fees, duties, and taxes.
  • Explain How to Track Orders: Provide instructions on how customers can track their orders, including any tracking links or carrier information.
  • Provide Contact Information for Customer Support: Ensure customers know how to reach your support team if they have any questions or issues.
  • Make Sure the Policy Is Easy to Understand and Navigate: Use simple language, clear formatting, and visual aids to make your policy easy to read.
  • Regularly Review and Update the Policy as Needed: Keep your shipping policy updated with any changes in shipping carriers, rates, or store operations to ensure accuracy.

Examples of Successful Shopify Shipping Policies

1. Tushy

Tushy’s FAQ-style shipping policy covers key customer concerns in a lighthearted yet professional tone. They clearly explain shipping methods, costs, and delivery timelines while addressing common issues like lost packages.

source

2. Package Free

This eco-conscious brand uses a Q&A format to align with its sustainability mission. Their policy highlights free shipping thresholds, eco-friendly packaging, and international shipping practices.

source

3. Hiut Denim

Hiut Denim keeps it simple, listing available shipping options, processing times, and return policies. The straightforward approach ensures customers know exactly what to expect.

source

Templates for Shopify Shipping Policies

1. Impulse Theme Template

This free shipping policy template emphasizes returns and refunds, providing detailed instructions for initiating a return and outlining eligibility criteria.

Penny Skateboards uses the Impulse Theme to create an interesting fusion of sports and safety, not to mention, create a pretty straightforward agreements and policy page for the business. 

source

2. Empire Theme Template

The Empire template is comprehensive, covering tracking, shipping methods, and refund policies in detail. It’s ideal for stores with diverse customer bases.

Nintendo SA uses this them for their online store. Need we say more?

source

FAQs to Address in Your Shopify Shipping Policy

  • How long will my order take to arrive?
  • Do you offer free shipping? If so, what are the conditions? To get your free shipping, ensure your order meets the minimum purchase requirement specified in our shipping policy. This helps address common customer inquiries about shipping costs and timelines.
  • What are your return and refund policies?
  • Do you ship internationally?
  • How can I track my order?
  • What happens if my package is lost or damaged?

A strong Shopify shipping policy is essential for building trust, reducing customer inquiries, and improving conversion rates. By being transparent about your shipping processes, you set clear expectations and create a positive shopping experience. 

Use this guide to craft a policy tailored to your business, and don’t forget to review and update it regularly as your store grows. An honest and well-structured shipping policy can be the foundation of long-term customer loyalty and success for your eCommerce store.

FAQs

How do I create a shipping policy?

You can create a shipping policy on your eCommerce platform like Shopify or use third-party platforms like Easyship. 

How to create a shipping policy in 2025?

Your shipping policy should include answers to the following questions:

  • How long will my order take to arrive?
  • Do you offer free shipping? If so, what are the conditions? To get your free shipping, ensure your order meets the minimum purchase requirement specified in our shipping policy. This helps address common customer inquiries about shipping costs and timelines.
  • What are your return and refund policies?
  • Do you ship internationally?
  • How can I track my order?
  • What happens if my package is lost or damaged?

Do I need a shipping policy on Shopify? 

Shopify's shipping policy is a legal requirement mandated for all businesses on the Shopify platform.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key points:

  • This detailed guide outlines shipping costs, delivery timelines, and processes to improve transparency and build customer trust. 
  • A clear policy is important because it reduces customer complaints, boosts conversions, and establishes credibility, which is crucial for growing your eCommerce store profitably. 
  • Learn how to create, optimize, and publish a shipping policy that answers FAQs, improves loyalty, and reduces workload. 
  • Transparent policies cut support inquiries, improve order processing clarity, and help you avoid disputes with clearly defined terms and conditions. 
  • Explore top Shopify shipping policy templates and real-life examples to craft a policy that aligns with your store’s unique needs.
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