How shipping works on TIAS
TIAS connects buyers with independent antique dealers and collectors across the country. Because each seller manages their own inventory and fulfillment, shipping is handled directly by the seller. This page explains how shipping works on TIAS and what to expect during checkout and delivery.
For buyers: When you purchase an item, the item price is charged at checkout. Shipping costs are shown at checkout based on the seller's shipping configuration — you'll always see the total before confirming your purchase.
For sellers: You configure your shipping preferences in Settings under "Shop Profile." Options include:
You also set your ships-from ZIP code and can add additional shipping notes that will be visible to buyers on your shop page and item listings.
Shipping Overcharge Protection
If the actual shipping cost charged by a seller exceeds their original estimate by more than 20%, the buyer may cancel the order for a full refund.
For buyers: You're protected against unexpected shipping costs. If a seller's final shipping charge is significantly more than what was shown at checkout, you have the right to cancel.
For sellers: Provide accurate shipping estimates to avoid order cancellations. If using flat rate shipping, make sure your rate reasonably covers your typical shipping costs. Consistent overcharges may result in account review.
10 Business Day Shipping Requirement
Sellers must ship all orders within 10 business days of purchase. Orders not shipped within this timeframe may be automatically cancelled with a full refund to the buyer.
For buyers: Most sellers ship much sooner, but antique items often require special packaging. If your order hasn't shipped within 10 business days, you're entitled to a full refund.
For sellers: Ship orders promptly and provide tracking information when available. Repeated failures to ship within 10 business days may result in account suspension.
Once an order ships, the buyer receives tracking information via email (when available). Delivery times vary based on the shipping method and destination.
Typical delivery timeframes:
These are estimates. Actual delivery times depend on the carrier, destination, and other factors outside TIAS's control.
TIAS tracks shipments to confirm delivery. Once an item is delivered, buyers have a 2-day verification window to inspect the item and confirm everything is as expected. If there's an issue — such as damage or the item not matching its description — report it during this window for the fastest resolution.
For buyers: This verification window is part of TIAS's buyer protection. If you don't report an issue within 2 days of delivery, the transaction is considered complete. Issues reported after this window will still be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
For sellers: Always add tracking information to your orders so TIAS can confirm delivery. Delivery confirmation is what triggers the release of funds from your Pending Balance to your Available to Withdraw balance in your Wallet.
If you have questions about a specific order's shipping, start by contacting the seller directly through the "Contact Seller" button on the order or listing page. For unresolved issues, TIAS Support is available to help mediate and ensure a fair resolution for both parties.
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