FAQ
ORDERS & PRODUCTS
Is your meat USDA inspected?
Yes. Our meat products are processed and packaged through USDA-inspected facilities as applicable to the product being purchased.
Can I build my own order?
Yes!
For individual-cut orders, you can select from the products currently available on our website and create your own order based on your family's needs.
We also offer bundles and bulk options for customers who want to stock their freezer.
BEEF SHARES
What is a beef share?
A beef share allows you to purchase a portion of a beef and receive a variety of cuts from that animal.
Depending on the share selected, you will receive steaks, roasts, ground beef, stew meat, and other cuts.
Because every animal is different, the exact combination, quantity, and final packaged weight will vary.
What beef share sizes do you offer?
Our typical beef share options include:
1/8 Beef Share — approximately 35 lbs
1/4 Beef Share — approximately 75 lbs
1/2 Beef Share — approximately 150 lbs
Whole Beef — approximately 300 lbs
These weights are estimates, not guarantees.
Is the advertised weight guaranteed?
No.
Bulk beef weights are estimates because each animal is different. Final packaged weight is affected by carcass yield, aging, trimming, bone-in versus boneless cuts, processing specifications, and other normal processing factors. The advertised share weight is not a guaranteed final packaged weight.
Purchasing a beef share does not guarantee a specific final packaged weight, number of packages, individual cut size, or exact quantity of any particular cut.
Can I choose my cuts?
Customization may be available depending on the share and processing options offered at the time of purchase.
However, not every cut can be guaranteed in every share.
The final contents of a beef share depend on the individual animal and the processing specifications available for that order.
Is the beef dry aged?
Our beef is typically dry aged for approximately 14–21 days or according to the processing schedule for the product.
Can I request organs or other specialty items?
When available, we may be able to include organs or specialty cuts such as liver, heart, tongue, oxtail, or other items.
These products are subject to availability and must be requested before processing when applicable.
Specialty items are not guaranteed unless specifically confirmed by Lewis Land & Cattle.
PRICING & PAYMENTS
Do beef shares require a deposit?
Yes.
A deposit is required to reserve a beef share.
The remaining balance is due before the order is shipped or released, as specified in your order confirmation or invoice.
When is my remaining balance due?
Customers will receive an invoice or payment reminder before their scheduled shipment.
Your remaining balance must be paid before your order ships.
Orders with unpaid balances may be delayed until payment is received.
SHIPPING
Where do you ship?
We currently ship to most locations within the contiguous United States where perishable delivery can be reasonably accommodated.
We do not currently ship to Alaska or Hawaii.
Certain destinations may be temporarily unavailable due to weather, seasonal temperatures, carrier limitations, or other shipping concerns.
How is our meat shipped?
All orders are carefully packed in insulated boxes with ice packs to keep your meat cold and protected during transit. We ship orders every Monday via UPS 2-Day Ground to help avoid weekend delays and ensure your products arrive as safely and efficiently as possible.
Will my meat arrive frozen?
Most orders arrive fully frozen, but it’s completely normal for some items to arrive partially thawed or refrigerator cold. As long as the meat is still cold to the touch and below 40°F, it is safe to refrigerate or refreeze.
How long can my box sit outside after delivery?
We recommend bringing your package inside as soon as possible.
Is it safe to refreeze meat that thawed during shipping?
If the meat is still cold or partially frozen upon arrival, it is generally safe to refreeze according to USDA guidelines. Refreezing may slightly affect texture or quality, but not safety.
My order arrived partially thawed. Is it safe to eat?
Your Lewis Land and Cattle products should arrive refrigerator cold—below 40°F as measured with a food thermometer.
We recommend checking the internal temperature of any meat that isn't solid and immediately discarding anything that isn't at a safe temperature. In accordance with USDA Freezing and Food Safety Guidelines, meats that are refrigerator cold, partly frozen (solid), or frozen (solid) can be placed into the freezer for later use. You should immediately discard any meat that’s above 40°F or meat that is exactly 40°F that may have been so for more than 2 hours.
If any of your items don’t meet these guidelines, please reach out to us so we can make this right.
Are refunds available for perishable products?
Because our meat and other refrigerated/frozen food products are perishable food products, all perishable-product sales are final and are not eligible for returns or refunds due to customer preference, change of mind, personal taste, improper storage or handling, failure to receive or promptly retrieve a shipment, refusal of delivery, an incorrect or incomplete shipping address, customer-requested delivery changes, or circumstances occurring after delivery.
This includes, but is not limited to, products that arrive partially thawed but remain refrigerator-cold (40°F or below), normal changes in appearance or texture associated with freezing or thawing, or products that do not meet a customer's personal preference.
Partial thawing during transit does not, by itself, constitute a defective or unsafe product. Perishable products may experience some thawing during shipping depending on transit time, weather, carrier conditions, and other circumstances. If the product remains at or below 40°F upon arrival, follow applicable USDA food-safety guidance regarding refrigeration or refreezing.
Our products are packaged using insulated shipping materials and frozen gel packs intended to maintain appropriate temperatures during transit. However, we cannot guarantee a specific delivery date, transit time, or temperature upon arrival because shipments are transported by third-party carriers.
What if my order arrives warm or there is a shipping problem?
If you believe your order has arrived in an unsafe condition or there is another legitimate fulfillment issue, you must contact Lewis Land & Cattle within 24 hours of confirmed delivery and before discarding, cooking, consuming, or otherwise disposing of the affected product.
To allow us to properly investigate a claim, you may be required to provide:
Photos of the shipping box, including any visible damage
Photos of the insulation and packaging materials
Photos of the affected products
A photo of the shipping label
The temperature of the product using a food thermometer, when applicable
A description of the issue
The date and approximate time the package was received
Do not discard the affected product or packaging until you have contacted us and received further instructions. We may require the product and/or packaging to remain available for inspection.
Each claim will be reviewed individually. If we determine that a product was damaged, lost, or otherwise failed to meet our applicable fulfillment or food-safety standards while in our control, Lewis Land & Cattle may, at its sole discretion, issue an appropriate resolution.
Submission of a claim does not guarantee a refund, replacement, or credit.
We cannot guarantee refunds, replacements, or credits for claims made after the 24-hour claim period, after the product has been discarded, consumed, cooked, improperly stored, improperly handled, or otherwise made unavailable for reasonable inspection.
Carrier Delays & Shipping Disruptions
Because perishable orders are transported by third-party carriers, Lewis Land & Cattle is not responsible for delays, missed delivery estimates, mechanical failures, weather-related delays, routing issues, operational disruptions, or other carrier-related events outside of our reasonable control.
A carrier delay does not qualify a perishable order for a refund or replacement.
If a shipment experiences a delay, we will work with the customer and, when appropriate, the carrier, to determine whether the product remains safe.
Customer Responsibility for Perishable Deliveries
Customers are responsible for:
Providing a complete and accurate shipping address
Monitoring tracking information
Being available to receive perishable shipments
Promptly retrieving the package after delivery
Bringing the package inside immediately after delivery
Properly refrigerating or freezing the products upon receipt
Following applicable food-safety and storage guidelines
Providing accurate contact information so we can communicate regarding the shipment when necessary
Lewis Land & Cattle is not responsible for product loss or deterioration resulting from an incorrect or incomplete address, refusal or failure to accept delivery, failure to retrieve a package promptly, customer-requested delivery changes, failure to follow tracking information, improper storage or handling after delivery, or other circumstances within the customer's control.
Shipping Charges
Unless otherwise required by applicable law or expressly approved by Lewis Land & Cattle, shipping charges are non-refundable once a perishable order has been shipped.
Policy Acknowledgment
By placing an order for perishable products, the customer acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to this Perishable Product, Refund & Delivery Policy.
What is your substitution policy?
In the event of unforeseen changes to our stock, we reserve the right to swap an item for another of equal or greater value.
Do You Ship Nationwide?
We ship to most of the lower 48 states.
Because our meats are perishable and quality is our top priority, some Western states may require additional shipping arrangements or may not be eligible for standard shipping options. Rising carrier costs and longer transit times can make it difficult to ensure products arrive in the premium condition our customers expect.
If you're located in a Western state and are interested in placing an order, please contact us before ordering. We're happy to discuss shipping availability, transit times, and any additional shipping costs that may apply.
Our goal is always to ensure your farm-fresh meats arrive safely, frozen, and in the best possible condition.
We reserve the right to delay or decline shipment to a destination when we determine that conditions may create an unreasonable risk to the safety or quality of a perishable order.
When do you ship?
We generally ship perishable orders on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Shipping early in the week helps reduce the likelihood of packages sitting over a weekend.
Actual transit times depend on the carrier and destination.
What carrier do you use?
We primarily use UPS for our perishable shipments.
Depending on the destination and shipping requirements, orders may ship using UPS Ground or UPS 2-Day service.
Is my delivery date guaranteed?
No.
Carrier transit times and delivery dates are estimates and are not guaranteed.
Weather, mechanical issues, routing problems, operational disruptions, high shipping volumes, holidays, and other circumstances may cause delays.
Because UPS is an independent third-party carrier, Lewis Land & Cattle cannot guarantee a specific delivery date or transit time.
PERISHABLE PRODUCTS & FOOD SAFETY
Will my meat arrive frozen?
Most orders arrive frozen, but some products may arrive partially frozen, partially thawed, or refrigerator cold. This can be normal during perishable-food shipping.
The fact that meat is not completely frozen when it arrives does not automatically mean that it is unsafe or defective.
The most important factor is the temperature of the product when it arrives.
What temperature should my meat be when it arrives?
If the product is 40°F or below, follow applicable USDA food-safety guidance for refrigeration or refreezing.
If the product still contains ice crystals or is partially frozen and remains cold, it may generally be refrigerated or refrozen according to applicable food-safety guidance.
When in doubt, use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the product.
My meat arrived partially thawed. Is it safe?
Partial thawing can occur during shipping and does not automatically indicate a problem.
If the product remains at or below 40°F, it may generally be refrigerated or refrozen in accordance with applicable USDA food-safety guidance.
Refreezing may affect texture or quality somewhat, but does not necessarily make the product unsafe.
If you believe the product arrived above a safe temperature, do not consume it. Contact us immediately and follow applicable food-safety guidance.
PERISHABLE PRODUCT REFUNDS & CLAIMS
Are refunds available for perishable products?
Because our meat and other refrigerated/frozen food products are perishable food products, all perishable-product sales are final.
Perishable products are not eligible for returns or refunds due to:
Customer preference
Change of mind
Personal taste
Improper storage or handling
Failure to receive a shipment
Failure to promptly retrieve a delivered package
Refusal of delivery
Incorrect or incomplete shipping information
Customer-requested delivery changes
Circumstances occurring after delivery
Normal changes in appearance or texture associated with freezing or thawing
Partial thawing during transit, by itself, is not grounds for a refund or replacement when the product remains at a safe temperature.
What if I believe there is a legitimate problem with my order?
If you believe your order arrived in an unsafe condition, was damaged, contains an incorrect item, is missing an item, or has another legitimate fulfillment issue, contact Lewis Land & Cattle within 24 hours of confirmed delivery.
You must contact us before discarding, cooking, consuming, or otherwise disposing of the affected product whenever reasonably possible.
To help us properly investigate a claim, please provide:
Photos of the shipping box
Photos of any visible damage
Photos of the insulation and cold packs
Photos of the affected products
A photo of the shipping label
A temperature reading from the affected product when applicable
A description of the issue
The date and approximate time the package was received
Please retain the affected product and original packaging until we have had an opportunity to review the claim.
Does submitting a claim guarantee a refund or replacement?
No.
Submission of a claim does not guarantee a refund, replacement, store credit, or other compensation.
Each situation will be reviewed individually.
If we determine that a product was damaged, incorrect, missing, spoiled, or otherwise failed to meet our applicable fulfillment or food-safety standards while within our responsibility, Lewis Land & Cattle may, at our discretion and where appropriate, provide a replacement, refund, store credit, or another reasonable resolution.
What happens if I wait to report a problem?
Perishable-product claims must be reported within 24 hours of confirmed delivery.
Claims submitted after that period may be denied.
Claims may also be denied when the affected product has been:
Discarded
Consumed
Cooked
Improperly stored
Improperly handled
Altered
Otherwise made unavailable for reasonable inspection
This requirement exists because perishable food conditions can change quickly and we must have an opportunity to evaluate the product and packaging.
SHIPPING DELAYS & CARRIER ISSUES
What if UPS delays my package?
Because our products are perishable and are transported by a third-party carrier, carrier delays do not automatically qualify an order for a refund or replacement.
Delays may occur because of:
Weather
Mechanical problems
Routing issues
Operational disruptions
High shipping volume
Holidays
Facility issues
Other circumstances outside our reasonable control
If a delayed shipment arrives cold, partially frozen, or otherwise at a safe temperature, it does not qualify for a refund solely because it arrived later than originally estimated.
If you believe a delayed shipment arrived at an unsafe temperature, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and provide the requested documentation so we can review the situation.
What if UPS loses or damages my package?
Contact us as soon as possible.
We will review the tracking information and circumstances and, when appropriate, work with the carrier regarding the shipment.
A carrier claim or investigation may be required before a final resolution is determined.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY
What are my responsibilities when receiving a perishable shipment?
Customers are responsible for:
Providing a complete and accurate shipping address
Providing accurate contact information
Monitoring tracking information
Being available to receive perishable shipments
Promptly retrieving the package after delivery
Bringing the package inside as soon as possible
Properly refrigerating or freezing the products upon receipt
Following applicable food-safety and storage guidance
Contacting Lewis Land & Cattle promptly if there is a legitimate issue
Lewis Land & Cattle is not responsible for product loss or deterioration resulting from an incorrect or incomplete address, failure or refusal to receive a shipment, failure to promptly retrieve a delivered package, customer-requested delivery changes, or improper handling or storage after delivery.
What if I am not home when my meat is delivered?
Perishable shipments should be retrieved and brought inside as soon as possible after delivery.
Customers are responsible for monitoring tracking information and making arrangements to receive their shipment.
We strongly recommend shipping to an address where someone can receive the package during the expected delivery window.
PACKAGING
How is my meat packaged?
Our perishable shipments are packaged using insulated materials and frozen gel packs and/or dry ice, as appropriate for the shipment.
Packaging is selected based on factors such as product type, order size, destination, season, and expected transit conditions.
Can the packaging arrive wet or damaged?
Minor condensation, moisture, or exterior wear can occur during transit.
If the box is damaged, opened, leaking, or otherwise appears compromised, photograph the package before opening it and contact us promptly.
LOCAL PICKUP & DELIVERY
Do you offer local pickup?
When available, local pickup options will be displayed at checkout or communicated directly to customers.
Pickup availability depends on inventory, location, and scheduling.
Do you offer local delivery?
Local delivery may be available in select areas.
Delivery fees, minimum order requirements, schedules, and service areas may vary.
PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
Why is a product sometimes unavailable?
Our inventory changes frequently based on processing schedules, farm availability, demand, and seasonal availability.
If a product is temporarily unavailable, check back regularly or contact us to ask about upcoming availability.
Can I request a product that is out of stock?
Absolutely.
If there is a specific cut or product you're looking for, contact us and we'll let you know if and when it becomes available.
QUALITY & PRODUCT EXPECTATIONS
Why might two steaks or cuts look different?
Our products are natural agricultural products.
Individual cuts can vary in size, shape, marbling, color, fat content, and appearance.
These natural variations do not necessarily indicate a quality problem.
Why does frozen meat sometimes look darker?
Frozen or vacuum-packaged beef can change color because of exposure to oxygen and the natural chemistry of the meat.
Color variation alone does not necessarily indicate spoilage.
When evaluating meat, consider temperature, odor, packaging condition, and applicable food-safety guidance rather than color alone.
Why might there be more or less fat on a particular cut?
Natural variation in fat content occurs between animals and individual cuts.
Trimming practices may also vary by product.
ORDERS, CHANGES & CANCELLATIONS
Can I change my order after placing it?
Contact us as soon as possible.
We will do our best to accommodate changes before the order enters processing or shipping.
Once an order has been processed, packaged, or shipped, changes may no longer be possible.
Can I cancel my order?
Cancellation requests must be submitted before the order enters processing or shipment.
Because many of our products are perishable and inventory may be allocated specifically to an order, cancellation availability may be limited once processing has begun.
Bulk and beef-share orders may be subject to separate cancellation and deposit terms provided at the time of purchase.
REFUNDS
What is your refund policy?
Our products are primarily perishable food products and are therefore generally final sale and not eligible for return.
Refunds, replacements, credits, or other resolutions may be considered for legitimate issues involving incorrect, missing, damaged, spoiled, or otherwise non-conforming products, subject to our applicable policies and review process.
Please see our complete Refund Policy for additional information.
BULK & LARGE ORDERS
Can businesses, restaurants, farms, or other organizations place large orders?
Yes!
We welcome wholesale, restaurant, farm, event, and other large-volume inquiries when inventory allows.
Please contact us directly to discuss availability, pricing, quantities, and scheduling.
Can large orders be shipped?
Large orders may require special shipping arrangements.
Shipping costs and availability depend on order size, destination, temperature, and carrier requirements.
Contact us before placing a large order if you have questions about shipping.
CONTACT US
I still have a question. Who can I contact?
We're happy to help!
Please contact Lewis Land & Cattle through the contact information provided on our website.
When contacting us about an existing order, please include your order number whenever possible so we can assist you more quickly.
IMPORTANT PERISHABLE PRODUCT NOTICE
PLEASE READ BEFORE ORDERING OR RECEIVING A SHIPMENT.
Our meat and other refrigerated/frozen food products are perishable food products.
All perishable-product sales are final, subject to our applicable policies and any rights provided by applicable law.
Partial thawing during shipping does not automatically mean that your meat is unsafe or defective. Check the temperature of the product. If it is 40°F or below, follow applicable USDA food-safety guidance.
If you believe there is a legitimate issue with your shipment:
DO NOT DISCARD THE PRODUCT OR PACKAGING.
Contact Lewis Land & Cattle within 24 hours of confirmed delivery, provide photos and temperature information when applicable, and retain the affected product and packaging until we have had an opportunity to review the claim.
By placing an order for perishable products, you acknowledge that you have had the opportunity to review this FAQ and our applicable Refund, Shipping, and Terms of Service policies.
Thank you for choosing Lewis Land & Cattle and supporting our family business!