Shipping policy
At Steel Root Design, every planter is handcrafted to order in our California workshop and shipped with care.
Because our planters are made from Corten (weathering) steel, they are substantial in weight and size. To ensure safe delivery, we primarily ship using freight carriers or offer local pickup from our workshop.
Please review the following policy for details on production timelines, delivery methods, freight handling, and inspection procedures.
1. Processing and Production Time
In-Stock Items: Orders for standard-size planters typically ship within 7–10 business days after payment is processed.
Made-to-Order Items: Custom planters or special sizes generally require 4–6 weeks of fabrication time.
Production Lead Times: Lead times may vary depending on order volume, material availability, or design complexity. We will notify you of any anticipated delays.
2. Shipping Methods
Because our planters are heavy and built from solid weathering steel, they are shipped via the most suitable method for their size and weight:
Freight Delivery (Palletized Shipments)
Most orders are shipped via LTL freight on pallets to ensure safe transport.
Deliveries are curbside only, meaning the driver will deliver to the nearest accessible location (such as your driveway or curb).
Placement, installation, or uncrating are not included with freight delivery.
Residential deliveries require an appointment; the carrier will contact you to schedule.
Small Parcel (Accessories & Smaller Items)
Smaller items such as Spray-X Rust Accelerator may ship via UPS, FedEx, or USPS with standard tracking.
3. Shipping Rates
Shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on weight, dimensions, and destination.
Large or multiple planters may require custom freight quotes.
For oversized or commercial orders, please contact steelrootdesign@gmail.com for a personalized shipping estimate.
4. Delivery Timeframes
Once shipped, transit times typically range from:
California & West Coast: 5–8 business days
Central U.S.: 8–12 business days
East Coast: 12–14 business days
Please note these are estimates only. Actual delivery times may vary due to carrier capacity, weather, or routing.
5. Order Tracking
You will receive an email with tracking details once your order has shipped.
For freight deliveries, tracking updates may show as “In Transit” until the shipment reaches your local terminal. The carrier will then contact you to arrange final delivery.
6. Freight Delivery Instructions
Because each planter is large and heavy, please review these steps to ensure a smooth delivery:
1. Prepare the delivery area — ensure the curb or driveway is accessible for a freight truck.
2. Be available to receive the shipment — someone must be present to inspect and sign for delivery.
3. Inspect before signing — check for visible damage or punctures in the packaging. If any damage is visible, note it clearly on the delivery receipt before signing. Take photos of the packaging and product from multiple angles.
4. Report any concealed damage within 7 days of delivery to steelrootdesign@gmail.com with photos.
Failure to note visible damage with the carrier may limit our ability to file a claim on your behalf.
7. Risk of Loss
All orders become your responsibility once they are handed over to the shipping carrier.
We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or delayed shipments once tracking confirms carrier possession.
We recommend shipping to a secure location and tracking your delivery closely.
8. Shipping Limitations
We currently ship to the continental United States only.
We do not ship to P.O. boxes, APO/FPO/DPO addresses, or international destinations at this time.
If you are outside the continental U.S., please contact us for possible arrangements and custom freight quotes.
9. Custom and Oversized Orders
Custom-designed planters or bulk orders may require special freight handling and coordination.
Our team will:
Provide a freight quote before finalizing your order.
Send photos prior to shipment for approval if requested.
Communicate estimated delivery timelines and tracking updates.
Please note: custom orders are final sale and non-returnable once production has begun.
10. Damaged or Missing Shipments
We take great care to package your order securely. However, in rare cases, freight shipments may sustain damage in transit.
If your order arrives damaged:
Note any visible damage on the carrier’s delivery receipt.
Take detailed photos of the packaging and product.
Contact us at steelrootdesign@gmail.com within 7 days of delivery with your photos and order number.
We will work with the freight carrier to file a claim and determine the best resolution, which may include repair, replacement, or partial refund at our discretion.
11. International, Customs, and Taxes
Currently, we do not offer international shipping.
Sales tax is calculated at checkout based on your shipping address within the United States.
Any additional fees, duties, or local taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.
12. Weathering Steel Advisory
All Steel Root Design planters are made from Corten (weathering) steel, which develops a natural rust patina when exposed to the elements.
This process is part of the design and may produce light rust runoff during the initial months of weathering.
Runoff is normal and not considered a defect. To minimize staining, we recommend placing planters on gravel, pavers, or using risers during early oxidation.
13. Contact Us
If you have questions about your order or need shipping assistance, please contact:
Steel Root Design
steelrootdesign@gmail.com
San Luis Obispo, California