SHIPPING & RETURNS: THE LAB RULES

We want to get your hardware to your workbench as fast as possible, but moving physical products requires some logistics. We keep our policies direct, transparent, and fair. Here is exactly how we handle shipping, cancellations, and the inevitable "magic smoke."

01. Shipping (Deploying the Hardware)

We know you have prototypes to build and code to deploy. We don't mess around with dispatch times.

• Dispatch Time: We hustle to pack and ship your order within 2-3 working days. We ship Monday through Friday (because even builders need a weekend). Orders placed on Saturday or Sunday roll out in the next working days.

• Transit Time: Our standard delivery window is 5-7 business days across India. We partner with top-tier couriers (BlueDart, DTDC, etc.) to ensure your kits arrive safely. Once the package leaves our lab, we will provide you with tracking intel.

• Tampered Packages: If the courier hands you a box that looks like it barely survived a Battlebots arena, do not accept it. Refuse the delivery, take a photo if you can, and email us immediately at theonlytechgeeks@gmail.com with your Order ID. We will sort out the replacement.

02. Cancellations (Stopping the Build)

You ordered the wrong microcontroller? Changed your mind? We can fix that, but you have to be fast.

• The "Pending" Window: You can cancel or alter your order via email only if the order status is still "Pending" or "Processing".

• The Point of No Return: Once your order hits the shipping dock and changes to "Shipped," you are locked in. We cannot recall a package once it is in the courier network.

• Gateway Fees: Note that canceled orders may attract a small 5% payment gateway processing fee, as gateways charge us the moment you click pay, regardless of cancellations.

03. Returns & Refunds (The 48-Hour Protocol)

We guarantee our hardware is high-quality and accurately described. If we mess up, we cover it 100%. If you mess up, that’s on you. Here is the protocol for claiming a refund or replacement:

• The 48-Hour Window: You have exactly 48 hours from the time of delivery to report any missing parts, incorrect items, or out-of-the-box manufacturing defects. Log into your account or email us directly to initiate a request.

• The Golden Rule (Unboxing Video): This is non-negotiable. To claim transit damage or missing components, you must provide a clear, uncut unboxing video showing the sealed package being opened. No unboxing video, no claim.

• Consult First: Never ship a product back to us without talking to us first. Our technical team will review your photos/videos visually. Often, what looks like a broken part is just a minor debugging issue we can fix over chat.

• Unused & Unmodified: For a standard return or replacement, the item must be exactly as you received it—unused, unsoldered, and in its original merchandise packaging.

04. The "Magic Smoke" Clause (Limits of Responsibility)

We supply the raw engineering tools; you are responsible for how you wire them. Warranties and returns strictly apply to manufacturing defects, not user error. We will NOT replace or refund items if:

• You reverse the electrical polarity and fry a board.

• You short-circuit a battery or microcontroller.

• You forcefully snap a 3D-printed chassis or strip a motor gear through improper use.

• You solder components poorly and damage the PCB.

• You modify, hack, or alter the hardware beyond its intended spec.

In short: If you let the magic smoke out, that is part of the learning curve, not a valid return.

05. How to Send It Back

If your return is approved for a manufacturing defect or wrong item shipped:

1. We will issue you an RMA (Return Material Authorization) number.

2. Pack the item securely with the original packing list. Do not write the RMA number directly on the original product box (write it on the outer shipping carton).

3. If it is our fault (manufacturing defect/wrong item), we cover the return shipping costs.

4. Refund Turnaround: Once the faulty item lands back in our lab and passes inspection, we will process your replacement or issue a 100% refund. Refunds typically take 5-7 working days to reflect in your original payment method.