Shipping FAQs
Why Does Shipping Cost So Much?
Shipping live shellfish (yes oysters are alive before you shuck them!) and fresh seafood is a tricky (and expensive) business. Since these items are perishable, it means that they cannot be in transit for more than 2 days. We insulate all of our boxes and pack them with lots of ice packs to keep them nice and cold on their journey to you! But timely shipping and lots of ice packs come at a price. We make every effort to keep our shipping rates as low as possible, and are always brainstorming new ideas about how we can lower our rates so you can enjoy fresh oysters shipped to your door more often!
What Kind Of Shipping Do You Offer?
We ship nationwide and offer two kinds of shipping—Flat Rate and Express. Both rates vary, depending on where you’re located.
Flat Rate Shipping: Flat Rate Shipping rates are for 2-day shipping methods (or ground if located in CA). These rates are set by zone, based on your location.
Express Shipping: Express shipping rates are set by zone, based on your location. For your express shipping rate, please refer to the map above. Please note, some of our products are available for express shipping only (like crab when available) and will ship the next available ship day.
A note about non-perishable items: Dry goods and apparel are shipped via ground with a flat rate of $15 per order ($4.99 for gift cards). Dry goods/apparel that are ordered along with perishable items will be included in your perishable order.
Apple, Meta or Google Pay: Please note, if using Apple, Meta or Google Pay, your order will ship the next available delivery date. If you need express shipping or a specific delivery date, use the standard “Check Out”.
When Will My Order Arrive?
The destination, shipping method, day, and time of checkout all impact when your order will arrive.
Orders placed by 4 PM Monday-Wednesday will be fulfilled and shipped the following day (unless a future delivery date is selected). All orders placed after 4 PM on Wednesday will be shipped the following Monday.
Please read below carefully so you know when to expect your order:
| Order Date (before 4pm PST) | Flat Rate Shipping | Express Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Ships: Tue Delivered: Thu |
Ships: Tue Delivered: Wed |
| Tuesday | Ships: Wed Delivered: Fri |
Ships: Wed Delivered: Thu |
| Wednesday | Ships: Mon Delivered: Wed |
Ships: Thu Delivered: Fri |
| Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday | Ships: Mon Delivered: Wed |
Ships: Mon Delivered: Tue |
What If I Have A Subscription Box?
We offer two different monthly subscription boxes that each ship out on a set date every month. Because of this, you won’t be asked to select a delivery date for subscription items.
PLEASE NOTE: Additional items ordered at the same time as a subscription will be shipped with the first subscription order. To get your items sooner, please place a separate order.
Want more info on subscription box shipping? Check out our Subscription Box FAQ.
How Do You Keep Your Shipping As Sustainable As Possible?
It’s no small feat to ship live shellfish across the country quickly and sustainably. But we pride ourselves on integrating sustainable practices into our packaging and shipping processes, every step of the way.
In our packaging:
- We use a completely recyclable insulated lining made out of paper, eliminating the use of styrofoam coolers
- The majority of our packaging is curbside recyclable (including the cardboard shipping box and insulated lining)
- The gel packs that keep everything fresh and cold are made with environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and 100% drain-safe materials. Refreeze and reuse, puncture and drain right into the sink, or even use as plant food. More info on our environmentally friendly gel packs here
For any clarification on our shipping policies or delivery info for your shipment please email us at mailorder@hogislandoysters.com or call us at (415) 390-4219 (available M-F 8am-4pm)