Shipping & Returns

We keep things simple, fast and thoughtfully packed
- so your candles arrive ready to glow.

Shipping

Order processing:
We hand-pack orders within 2-4 business days (Mon - Fri, excluding holidays).

You'll receive a tracking email as soon as your order ships.
Domestic (U.S.)
Standard: 3-7 business days via major carriers.
Expedited: Available at checkout.

Free U.S. shipping on orders $150+ after discounts.

International
Delivered via the best available carrier.  Transit times vary by country
Duties & taxes are calculated at checkout (or collected on delivery in some regions) and are the recipients responsibility.

We cannot mark orders as "gift" or lower the declared value.

Pre-orders / backorders
Items marked as pre-order ship on the stated date.  Orders containing both in-stock and pre-order items may ship together on the later date.

Address Changes
Enter the correct address at checkout.  If you need to fix something, e-mail us within one hour of placing your order at hello@fortecandles.com. Once the label is created, we can't guarantee changes.

PO/APO/FPO
We do ship to PO Boxes and APO/FPO when allowed by carrier/service selection

Hot & Cold weather
Extreme temperatures can affect candles in transit.  If a package feels warm, let it rest at room temperature before opening.  Slight frosting or surface variations are natural for soy-coconut wax and won't affect performance.

Order Issues (Lost, Damaged, Missing)

Damaged or incorrect items
If something arrived damaged or not quite right, contact us within 7 days of delivery at hello@fortecandles.com with your order number and clear photos of the box, packing materials, and product.  We'll make it right.

Lost or stolen packages
If tracking shows "delivered" but you don't have it, please:

1. Check with household members/neighbors and alternate doors
2. Wait 24 hours (carriers sometimes scan early).
3. Contact the carrier to open a trace, then email us.

We'll help however we can, but Forte isn't responsible for packages after carrier confirmation of delivery.

Returns & Exchanges
Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery for unused, unlit candles in original packaging.

Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless we made a mistake or the item arrived damaged.

For your protection, use a trackable service; were not responsible for items lost in transit.

Non-returnable items
Used or burned candles, limited editions, sale/clearance items and gift cards are final sale.

Exchanges
Prefer a different scent? Start a return and place a new order for the one you want, or email us-we can sometimes process a direct exchange if stock allows.

Refunds
Once your return is received and inspected, approved refunds are issued to the original payment method within 5-10 business days days (your bank/issuer may take longer).

Original shipping fees are non-refundable.

How to start a return
1. Emai hello@fortecandles.com with your order number and the item(s) you'd like to   return.
2. We'll reply with the next steps and a return address (or a prepaid label if applicable).
3. Pack items securely to prevent transit damage.

Candle Performance Tips
(before you return)

• Sometimes a small tweak equals a perfect burn:
• First burn: let wax melt edge to edge (2-4 hours) to set the "memory"
• Trim Wicks to - 1/4" before each light
• Room size matters: stronger throw in medium to large spaces after 30-60 minutes.
• If you're not getting the performance you expected, email us- we are happy to     troubleshoot.

Questions?
We're here for you: hello@fortecandles.com
Thank you for supporting an independent, design-driven candle haus.