Dear friends, in these unprecedented times were are experiencing precendented shipping delays. They are the same delays that occurred back in March and April only maybe more wide spread. The Detroit USPS sorting center, the one that all my mail goes through, has the distinction of being singled out for its exceptional lack of efficiency. You can read or listen to the story here.
Plant safety is the greatest concern, of course. I can tell you from the delays in March that despite spending up to two weeks in the mail, not a single plant was lost. This is a tribute to the vigor and virility of orchids, no matter their size. If, however, you receive a package that has damaged plants, please DO NOT throw them away. Notify me ASAP, and we may have to present the plants at the post office. Yes, this happened before. At least we will need pictures to try to collect the insurance. You, my friends, are covered. I will refund you, but I would like to at least try to collect on the insurance (my success rate thus far is 0%).
I have always used USPS for its convenience (especially because we live in a very rural area) and its cost savings. However, the situation has become so bad that as of 12/16/2020, I am shipping via FedEx, at least through the beginning of the year. We shall see what happens with the new year and a decrease in mail volume. If I stay with FedEx, I may need to raise shipping costs which I truly HATE to do (I mean really hate because I hate to pay shipping myself), but for now I will leave rates where they are and eat any cost differences.
I wish all of you a very happy holiday season. I can’t thank you enough for your patronage, support, and friendship. Stay safe and warm, my friends!
Happy growing, Kristen
Hi Kristen,
The package you shipped on December 10th arrived today. The Sedirea appears to be none the worse for the journey! Very relieved to get the raffle plant and have it in such great condition Thank you! Not sure where the USPS held the box, but clearly it wasn’t in a sub-zero facility.