Shipping Policy
Last Updated: January 2025
Our Commitment
At Clothe Quest, we believe that geography should never be a barrier to dignity. Our mission is to match people in need with donors who have exactly what they need — and that sometimes requires shipping items across distances.
"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:2
Shipping Options
1. Local Pickup (Free)
When possible, we encourage local connections. Many donations can be picked up directly from the donor or dropped off at a local clothing ministry. This is the fastest and most cost-effective option.
2. Donor-Paid Shipping
Donors who are able may choose to ship items directly to recipients. We provide prepaid shipping labels through our partner carriers. Typical costs range from $5-15 for standard items, with larger packages costing more.
3. Shipping Fund Assistance
For those who cannot afford shipping costs, our community-funded Shipping Fund helps cover delivery expenses. This fund is supported by generous donations from people who want to help eliminate barriers to receiving needed clothing.
The Shipping Fund
Our Shipping Fund is a pool of donations specifically designated to help cover shipping costs for clothing donations. Here's how it works:
- Community Supported: Anyone can contribute to the fund through our Impact page.
- Need-Based Distribution: Priority is given to urgent needs and those who cannot afford shipping costs.
- 100% Goes to Shipping: Every dollar donated to the Shipping Fund goes directly to shipping costs — no administrative fees.
- Transparent Tracking: We publish our fund balance and usage statistics on our Impact page.
Shipping Process
- Match Made: When a donation matches a need, both parties are notified.
- Shipping Method Selected: The donor and recipient coordinate on the best delivery method (pickup, donor-paid shipping, or fund-assisted shipping).
- Label Generated: If shipping is needed, we generate a prepaid label through our carrier partners.
- Package Shipped: The donor drops off the package at any carrier location.
- Tracking Provided: Both parties receive tracking information.
- Delivery Confirmed: We verify receipt and close the match.
Carrier Partners
We work with trusted carriers to ensure reliable delivery:
- USPS (United States Postal Service)
- UPS
- FedEx
Carrier selection is based on package size, destination, and cost-effectiveness.
Delivery Timeframes
Note: For urgent needs (interviews, emergencies), we prioritize faster shipping methods when the Shipping Fund allows.
Packaging Guidelines
To ensure items arrive in good condition, we ask donors to:
- Use clean, sturdy boxes or mailers
- Fold items neatly to minimize wrinkles
- Include any hangers for professional attire when possible
- Protect delicate items with tissue paper or plastic bags
- Seal packages securely with packing tape
Lost or Damaged Shipments
While rare, packages can sometimes be lost or damaged in transit. If this occurs:
- Contact us immediately through your dashboard
- We will file a claim with the carrier
- We will work to find an alternative match if the original items cannot be recovered
International Shipping
At this time, Clothe Quest operates only within the United States. We hope to expand internationally in the future as our ministry grows.
Support the Shipping Fund
Help us eliminate shipping as a barrier to dignity. Your contribution to the Shipping Fund directly helps someone receive the clothes they need.
Donate to Shipping FundQuestions?
If you have questions about our shipping policies or need assistance with a shipment, please contact us through your account dashboard or visit our Find Closets page to connect with a local ministry.