We have tried to answer some common questions below. If we haven't addressed yours, please feel free to contact customer service via:

Traditional mail:

Ames Company Inc.
P.O. Box 12529
Reading, PA 19612

Telephone Orders:

Call 610-914-9274

Using the Shopping Cart:

When you wish to purchase an item, click the 'add to cart' button, which will add the item to your 'shopping cart'--the item is held there until you decide to 'check out'. You are not obligated to buy when your items are in the cart, just like a real shopping cart.

To continue shopping, simply add more items to your cart. Each time you add an item, you may see the page reload or flicker--this is normal.

When you are ready to buy your products, click the '' button at the top or bottom of the store, or simply click '' if you are already viewing your shopping cart.

When viewing your shopping cart, please do not use the 'back' button on your browser. This confuses the shopping cart :-) You may click either 'continue shopping' or check to see if there is another store window already open. The shopping cart generally opens a new window.

When is my credit card billed?

Your credit card is not billed until your items are shipped.

Security:

Our shopping cart is 100% secure. We use state of the art high-encryption (128 bit, or 'strong') for all of  your purchasing information through Rich Media Technologies . . . a leading eCommerce provider. 

Some browsers are only equipped to handle low (40 bit) encryption, which many online merchants consider too risky. Since we wish to protect your transactions, we do not support 40 bit encryption.

If you live in the United States, you should upgrade to 128 bit strong encryption via Microsoft, or Netscape.

Some browsers can be set to warn you when you are entering or leaving a secure area. if you get a warning that you are leaving a secure page after placing your order, this is normal. The secure servers are only used to process your order, and you are returned to standard servers to continue browsing.

If you do not see a small 'lock icon' in your browser, it may be because this site uses frames, or because you are not yet in the secure area. To "break out" of frames, click on any shopping cart buttons ( ) that state "opens in new window"  and then click on the button on that page to see the full security icon and URL.

You are not transferred to our secure servers until you checkout. .

Our Catalog:

We do not produce a separate catalog. This helps keep our costs low and our prices to you low. If you are looking for a specific item or range of items let us know. We may have information on hand to send to you. 

Changing or Canceling (we hope not!) an Order:

The most efficient and expedient way is to reply to your e-mail order confirmation letting us know the change you wish to make. You will then receive another e-mail confirmation acknowledging the request.

Shipping:

Products are normally shipped within 2-3 weeks from receipt of your order. If items are back ordered or delayed for any reason we will notify you via e-mail or telephone. You will receive a prompt e-mail confirmation of your order.

I paid for 2 Day shipping,  but it took a week to get here!

Gift Orders:

At your request we will include, at no extra cost, a personalized gift card with your message for each gift that ships directly to the gift recipient.

Special Orders:

We do have access to other items so if you have a Special Request please let us know and we will happy to search for it.

Packaging:

We try to recycle as much of our own packing materials as possible so don't be surprised if the carton has a used appearance!

Privacy:

We do not share or sell any of our customer information. If you receive special offers and e-mail from us it is because you have chosen to subscribe. We will gladly remove you from our mailing list. Just send us an e-mail with the word "remove" in the body of the message.

Returns:

If you are not happy with your order just e-mail us within 30 days of receipt with your order or invoice number and we will let you know how to return the item(s). All items should be in good condition and in their original packaging please.

The Ingredient Store typically ships orders on Mondays
Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery