Shipping policy
VARE
Shipping Policy
Last updated: May 2026
Overview
The Substantial is made fresh in small batches in Chicago. Because it is a fresh-baked perishable product, we handle shipping carefully and have specific policies to make sure it gets to you in the best possible condition.
1. Where We Ship
We currently ship within Illinois only. We do not ship to other states at this time.
If you are outside Illinois and want to get your hands on The Substantial, find us at one of our Chicago farmers markets. Market locations and schedules are posted at varefoods.com and shared first with Chapter 01 members.
2. Order Minimums
Online orders require a minimum of 12 units. This is not arbitrary — it is the minimum quantity that makes sense for a fresh-baked product shipped with care. Smaller orders are available at our farmers market locations in Chicago.
3. Processing and Delivery Times
Orders are processed and shipped within 2 to 3 business days of purchase. We bake in small batches on a set schedule, which means your order ships fresh rather than from pre-made inventory sitting in a warehouse.
Estimated delivery times within Illinois are 1 to 3 business days after shipment. These are estimates and not guarantees. Actual delivery times depend on your location within Illinois and carrier performance.
You will receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information when your order ships.
4. Perishable Product Handling
The Substantial is a fresh-baked product with no preservatives. We package orders carefully to maintain freshness during transit, but we recommend the following once your order arrives:
- Store at room temperature and consume within 7 days of delivery
- For longer storage, freeze immediately upon arrival — The Substantial freezes well
- Do not leave the package in a hot mailbox or on a doorstep in direct sun for extended periods
If your order arrives in poor condition due to transit issues, contact us at info@varefoods.com within 72 hours of delivery with your order number and a photo. We will make it right.
5. Shipping Costs
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location within Illinois and the size of your order. We do not mark up shipping — you pay what the carrier charges us.
We do not currently offer free shipping, but we are working on it as our volume grows.
6. Lost or Delayed Orders
If your order is delayed beyond the estimated delivery window, check your tracking information first. If the tracking shows no movement for more than 48 hours or the package appears to be lost, contact us at info@varefoods.com and we will work with you to resolve it.
Once a package is in the carrier's hands, we cannot guarantee outcomes. For lost packages confirmed by the carrier, we will either replace the order or issue a refund. We assess these on a case by case basis.
7. Incorrect Address
Please review your shipping address carefully at checkout. We are not responsible for orders shipped to an incorrect address provided at checkout. If you realize you entered the wrong address, contact us immediately at info@varefoods.com. If the order has not yet shipped, we will do our best to correct it. Once shipped, we cannot redirect the package.
8. Farmers Market Orders
Farmers market purchases are cash and carry — no shipping involved. Find us at our Chicago market locations posted at varefoods.com.
9. Contact
Questions about your order or shipment? Reach us at info@varefoods.com. We respond to everything.
VARE Foods, LLC | Chicago, IL | varefoods.com