Birchbox shipping policy
When you sign up for a Birchbox, a monthly beauty subscription service that delivers curated samples of skincare, makeup, and hair products. It's known for letting you try before you buy, but the beauty subscription box only works if the box actually shows up. Many people start with the promise of discovering new products, only to get stuck wondering where their box is—or why it’s late. The Birchbox shipping policy isn’t complicated, but it’s full of small details that can make a big difference.
Most U.S. orders ship within 3 to 5 business days after your subscription renews or you place a one-time order. Delivery usually takes another 5 to 10 days, depending on your location. If you’re in a rural area or hit a holiday season, expect delays. Birchbox uses standard ground shipping by default, so there’s no express option unless you pay extra for a one-time purchase. International shipping is available to a limited number of countries, but it’s expensive and can take up to 3 weeks. You won’t get tracking info unless you upgrade to a premium plan, and customs fees are your responsibility if you’re outside the U.S. or U.K.
Missing a box? Birchbox lets you report it after 14 days from the shipping date. You’ll need your order number and the date it was supposed to arrive. They’ll usually send a replacement, but only once per account. If your box arrives damaged or with the wrong items, you can request a refund or credit through their customer portal—but you can’t return opened samples. Returns aren’t accepted for subscriptions, and cancellations don’t refund the current month’s box. If you’re on a free trial, they’ll still charge you unless you cancel before the trial ends. This isn’t hidden, but it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.
What you’ll find below are real questions from people who’ve dealt with late boxes, wrong items, and confusing policies. We’ve pulled together posts that cover everything from how to spot a fake Birchbox to what to do when your subscription stops arriving. Whether you’re new to beauty boxes or you’ve been getting them for years, these guides help you avoid the common traps and get the most out of your subscription. No fluff. Just what works.