FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SHIPPING
What carrier do you use?
UPS
When will I receive my shipped order?
If you are in the one or two-day shipping zones, you will receive your order on Wednesday or Thursday (if UPS isn’t delayed). If you are in a 3-day zone, Friday is your expected day (if UPS is not delayed).
There are times when we are short on milk or items did not have enough time to be made since we make everything to order (cream cheese, yogurt, kefir, cookies etc.). When this happens, we may delay the shipment of the package in order to include all of the items. If you need your package to arrive on time, due to travel or a planned event, please let us know in the comment section at Check Out so that we can do our best to accommodate you!
Can I get a tracking number?
Yes. We do our best to provide you with a tracking number, but a guaranteed way to get one is by signing up for UPS MyChoice. It is free, but you have to create an account. You will receive step by step notifications as well as notification of delivery. *When you sign up, be sure to use the same email address that you used for BVP.
Can I give special delivery instructions?
Yes. Through a free service called UPS MyChoice, you can give special delivery instructions to the driver. That is the only way we can guarantee your requests will be seen by the driver.
Ask them to put it in your garage, shed, side door or cooler outside to put your mind at ease. It is great if you are concerned about you package sitting in hot sun or inclement weather. Its also provides piece of mind if you live in an apartment building or in a neighborhood where theft is an issue. You can even reroute your package. We do not typically recommend rerouting a package in case delays cause the package to spoil. This may be useful with enough notice and if it is going to another address close by. Go to the UPS website and sign up for free! *When you sign up, be sure to use the same email address that you used for BVP.
How is shipping calculated?
Shipping includes the cost of the UPS service and packing materials (ice, insulation and the box). Shipping costs at check out are merely an estimate and can go up or down depending on the size of your order. UPS calculates their cost by the size and weight of the box and how far it is going. Email us if you would like a shipping quote. If a package is over 50 pounds, UPS will automatically add a 30.00 overweight fee.
Example: 4 half gallons of milk in glass and 4 quarts of cottage cheese in glass with ice is 57 pounds.
Example: 9 Quarts of milk in glass with ice is 45 pounds.
Why doesn’t my shipping cost change when I fill my cart?
The website will not automatically update shipping based on what you put in your cart. Shipping will be adjusted after the box weight is finalized the day before shipping.
How do you package your orders?
-UPS: Cardboard box, insulation and ice blankets, bubble wrap and foam cushioning. Ice is adjusting according to climate and shipping duration.
-Drop Locations and Home Delivery: Cardboard box: orders are placed in a plastic bag with loose ice. Enough ice to keep the order cool for a few hours.
What are you ice blankets made of? How can I dispose of them?
The contents of the ice blanket are non-toxic and food safe. It is not a liquid, rather a proprietary blend of material that absorbs water. It does not contain silica or harmful chemicals. Since it is not a liquid, we suggest disposing of them in the trash. They are reusable, so if you wish to use them yourself or give them away to friends and neighbors, that is another option.
Do you ship to the western half of the U.S.?
We are willing to ship out west, but it is not very cost effective. By ordering, you assume the full financial risk for shipping. UPS charges a lot for 3 Day Select and 2nd Day Air. Ask us for a quote if interested. We reserve the right to not refund shipping if shipping is not successful (delayed or broken packages). UPS does not easily reimburse companies for perishable items.
Do you have a physical store where I can shop?
No, we do not have a store, but you may pick up pre-ordered items from our farm by using our website. If you stop by the farm without an appointment, there is no guarantee that someone will be there to help you or that we will have the items that you are looking for. We have no means of accepting payment except for exact change in cash.
Can I request a different day or time for farm pick up?
Yes. You can make an appointment for pick up Wednesday thru Saturday. When you place your order online for farm pick up @ Buffalo Valley Pastures, you will automatically be assigned to pick up on Wednesday. Let us know in the comment section the day time you would like to come. We prefer between 7 am and 3 pm, but we can be flexible.
There are no Sunday pick ups or sales.