FAQ

SWEAT RECORDS FAQ

Q: Where else can I find Sweat online?
A: Check us out here:

Discogs – Rarities & select used titles

Eventbrite – First dibs on ticketed events

Instagram – New arrivals in Stories, event announcements, and more

Q: Where are you located?
A: Our storefront is at 5505 NE 2nd Ave. Miami, FL 33137 in the Little Haiti neighborhood. Come visit! If you want to hear what we're listening to in the shop, follow our New Releases & Reissues playlist that's updated weekly.

Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: We're open:

Sunday–Tuesday: 12PM–5PM

Wednesday–Saturday: 12PM–7PM

We close on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and if Björk comes to town.

Q: Can I get your digits?
A: Call us any time during store hours at 786.693.9309

Q: Can I email you?
A: Yep! Reach us at [email protected]

Q: How do I stay updated?
A: Sign up for our weekly newsletter at the bottom of our homepage, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok – and better yet, come by the store on the regular. There's always something new, expertly curated by our awesome staff with no generative AI ever!

Q: What kind of music do you sell?
A: We carry 95% new and used LPs, plus a curated mix of tapes and used CDs. Sweat has the widest selection of new vinyl in Miami, including new releases, classic catalog titles, and reissues from nearly every genre. We also have one of the largest world/international music sections around, plus tons of soul, hip hop, rock, experimental, metal, folk, punk, jazz, blues, reggae, soundtracks, imports, special editions, and beyond.

Q: What else do you sell?
A: Turntables & accessories (sleeves, cleaning kits, adapters, needles for the players we sell), enamel pins, incense, cold beverages, music books and magazines, a variety of awesome Sweat merch, and South Florida-made music, pins, books, and zines. We also sell plastic and wooden record storage crates.

Q: Do you do special orders?
A: Absolutely. For no extra charge, we can special order any LP, CD, or DVD that is currently in print/available to us and contact you when it comes in. Just ask any staff member to look it up! (Sorry, we don't take special orders over the phone.)

Q: Can I check if you have a specific record before coming in?
A: Our web shop is synced with in-store inventory, but feel free to call or email us with any questions – we’re happy to help!

Q: Can you help me track down something rare I'm looking for?
A: We'll certainly try. Feel free to email us any details about your vinyl holy grail(s).

Q: Do you sell gift certificates?
A: Yes, you can buy gift certificates online – they're good both in-store and on our web shop.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: In-store we accept most forms of payment (including Apple Pay) except personal checks. Orders on our web shop can be paid via credit card, Venmo or Paypal.

Q: What is your return policy?
A: We offer full refunds on sealed merchandise in re-sellable condition within 14 days with a receipt. Without a receipt, we'll offer store/trade credit for sealed items in re-sellable condition. Turntables, headphones, and cartridges are final sale unless factory defective. All sales are final on used items, clearance, special orders, and Record Store Day releases. Our staff reserves the right to refuse a refund on any item that appears to be damaged after purchase.

Q: Can I have free stuff?
A: Yes! We've got a popular Customer Loyalty Card program to reward regulars. Get 1 punch for any new or used LP over $20. 12 punches = $20 voucher good for anything in the shop except gift cards. The cards are good for a year from date of issue and are stored on file at the store so you don't have to worry about losing them. Basically, if you buy 1 record a month from Sweat, you'll fill the card! Plus, we always have a stack of free promo posters, stickers, and band swag by the front door.

Q: Do you buy records?
A: Yes! Our Vinyl Buyers are available weekdays from 12-5. For collections over 20 pieces, please call first as we're not always buying everything. We generally buy clean collections in the genres of rock, pop, jazz, blues, soul, r&b, disco, hip hop, electronic, dance, alternative, metal and punk. We do not currently buy big band, easy listening (e.g. Perry Como, Barbra Streisand), Time Life-type box sets, classical, opera, show tunes, or 78s.

Q: What formats do you NOT buy?
A: We do not buy DVDs, VHS, 8-tracks, laser discs, or memorabilia-type items. We occasionally buy killer tape collections but vinyl is our focus. If you need space in your house, we accept CDs by donation.

Q: How much do you pay?
A: An item's value depends on the artist, title, condition, popularity, and availability. A typical collection of mixed records will be 25 cents to a few dollars store credit per LP. You will always get approximately 25% more value if you opt for store credit over cash. We cannot provide accurate quotes over the phone so please call 786.693.9309 first to make an appointment with one of our Vinyl Buyers. We can send a Sweat expert to your location if you have an excellent collection over 500 pieces.

Q: Will you sell my item(s)?
A: Sweat currently sells locally-produced LPs, tapes, zines, and enamel pins on a consignment basis, paid out quarterly. Please email us first, and approval is up to store discretion.

Q: Where can I find your upcoming events?
A: Follow us on Eventbrite to be the first to know. We also post them on Facebook and Instagram.

Q: How do I book a show / event / meeting at Sweat?
A: We are a small all-ages space and host mostly free or low-cost events. We mainly host release shows for bands making a physical LP or tape, workshops, screenings, and other nerdy/music-centric content. To pitch an idea, please fill out our brand new event submission form with all the detail and give us a few days to respond.

Q: Will you send an e-blast out for my event?
A: We don't do dedicated e-blasts but we do have a killer newsletter and a promo package available for concerts and events – email us for details. You can always drop off flyers or posters at the shop (yes, people still take them all the time!)

Q: Are you hiring?
A: We are sorry but we are fully staffed at the moment. We still love you though and FYI future job openings are always posted via our Instagram page.

Q: Do you allow pets in the store?
A: Well-behaved animals are very welcome, though we don't recommend bringing them to in-store events.

Q: Can I film or take photos at Sweat?
A: Our shop has been featured in print and in media around the world. For commercial projects, please email [email protected] to inquire about rates and availability. If it's just for personal use or social media, go for it – as long as it doesn't disrupt other customers. Don't forget to tag us @sweatrecords

Q: Can I take my engagement / quiceañera / band photos there?
A: We appreciate being thought of for special occasions and can usually accommodate a shoot with advance notice. Instead of a rental fee, we generally ask that you spend at least $100 on records, though off-hours sessions may require a staffing fee. Please reach out with any questions.

Q: I have a broken turntable / guitar pedal / amp / electronic thingie PLS HALP!?
A: We recommend SDMachines and you can even use Sweat Records as a drop-off point if necessary. They specialize in all eras of synthesizers and drum machines and also do modifications and customizations, as well as general turntable repairs. Feel free to contact SD via their website. For CDJs, turntables, mixers, and other electronics, we also recommend Rafa at Miami Audio Solutions. For either option, please tell them Sweat sent you!

Q: You guys have a record label?
A: We do! Our boutique imprint Sweat Records Records has released beautiful vinyl by Dracula, Las Nubes, Richie Hell, Stars, and Debbie Deb. Our releases have been featured on NPR Music, BBC, Remezcla, Rolling Stone Argentina, Brooklyn Vegan, and more. Check out the catalog here.

Q: Who are all the artists in the mural on the outside of your store and who painted it?
A: That's our "Wall of Idolatry" featuring Daft Punk, Prince, Iggy Pop, Grace Jones, Björk, Serge Gainsbourg, David Bowie, Noodle of Gorillaz, Celia Cruz, MF Doom, Billie Holiday, Notorious B.I.G., Aphex Twin and Dolly Parton. Incredible local artist and muralist CP1 (cp1art.com) did the entire piece without a single brush – it was all done with spray paint. In 2024, CP1 refreshed the mural with BKFoxx (bkompleted.com) and it looks better than ever!

Q: When are you moving?
A: Thankfully we are staying put. In early 2019 we were (mis)led to believe that we wouldn't be able to stay in our location. Fortunately we were able to negotiate staying in our beloved spot in Little Haiti for the foreseeable future.

WEB SHOP FAQ

Q. How do I know if an item is in stock?
A: All products listed are in stock at our store in Miami, and our web store is updated in real time to assure that stock levels are as accurate as possible. Occasionally, there may be a stock error. In this case we will notify you by phone or email to let you know if we’ll be able to get the item quickly to add to the order, and if you'd like to do so. You will not be charged for out of stock items unless you request fulfillment and the item is still available for us to order.

Q. Can I order by telephone?
A: All orders must be placed via the web store to ensure security.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

A: We accept most credit cards via secure Lightspeed Payments processing and also accept PayPal and Venmo. At this time Loyalty Card reward coupons can only be used in person at Sweat Records.

Q: Is ordering from Sweat's web store secure?
A: Yes, the cart is encrypted. You should notice the padlock icon in your web browser. If that does not appear, please get in touch with us before placing an order.

Q: How do I know you have received my order?
A: After placing an order you will receive an Order Confirmation. Once payment has been processed and accepted you will receive a Payment Confirmation.

Q: How long do you take to ship an order?
A: Most orders will typically ship with 1-3 business days, though delays are possible.

Q: Can I place an order now to ship at a later date?
A: Yes. Either indicate your preferred ship date in the order notes, or call/email the shop with your preference once your order has been confirmed.

Q: Can you guarantee delivery on or by a particular date?
A: Priority shipping is available, and beyond that unfortunately we can't dictate what happens once custody of the item is transferred to USPS. We do our best to process and ship orders as quickly as possible, and each order receives a tracking number where applicable.

Q: An item I saw recently on the web store is no longer listed - can I still order it?
A: Possibly. There's a good chance the item is just out of stock and we'll get it back in. Call 786.693.9309 or email store[AT]sweatrecordsmiami[DOT]com with your name and the requested item and we'll let you know as soon as it’s available for sale in the web store again. Some items will never be in stock again, and we will be able to verify this for you as well.

Q: If a product is not listed, can you order it in for me?
A: Due to the sometimes finicky nature of special orders, we are only able to process them (with deposit) in-store at the moment. If you're local to South Florida and want to place a special order, stop by or call or email the shop for details.

Q: I am having problems using the shopping cart - what should I do?
A: The main reason customers may encounter problems using the shopping cart is because they are attempting to order from a non-standard PC/Mac unit (such as a phone). In this case, the cart may not function properly, so we recommend using a stand-alone PC/Mac if possible. Another possible source of problems is that the web browser is not optimized to work with our store (we've had the best luck with Chrome or Firefox). You may also encounter trouble if the security settings on your web browser are set at maximum. Additionally, "Java", "JavaScript" and "Cookies" should all be enabled in your browser options.

Q: Can I pick up my order from your shop instead of having it shipped?
A: Yes! Just select "Local Pickup" as your shipping preference at check out and the order will be set aside for you. Keep in mind that it can take a few hours to process an order, so it might not be ready for pick-up immediately after you place the order. We suggest calling first to let us know you're on the way.

Q: When will my card be charged?
A: Your card will be charged almost immediately after payment is processed through the processor. If you're using PayPal, the payment should go through almost immediately as well. You will receive a Payment Confirmation once payment is completed. If you don’t receive a Payment Confirmation, something may have gone wrong. In this case we will contact you to see if you'd like to complete payment or cancel the order.

Q: What if my card is declined?
A: If your card is declined, you will be asked to enter another form of payment. If you're unsure of the reason for your card being declined, we recommend contacting your bank or credit card provider.

Q: Can I add items to an order I have already placed?
A: Unfortunately, once an order has been paid for it can't be added to. If you'd like to buy something additional you'll have to place another order, however, we might be able to ship everything together if eligible, without charging additional shipping. Please get in touch via phone or email so we can see what's possible.

Q: Are your items drop-shipped?

A: No! Our staff proudly hand-packs each order here at our record shop in Miami.

Q: Why do you only ship within the USA?
A: Due to too many complications and lost/damaged packages, we currently only ship within the United States. We are unable to make any exceptions.

Q: What if my order is lost in transit?
A: In the case of an order not arriving, we can typically issue a replacement package, providing all items are still available. Should some items be unavailable, we will get in touch to see if you'd like a partial replacement/refund. For all US orders, we can only consider a package missing three weeks AFTER it's been transferred to USPS. Please check with your local post office regarding packages on hold for collection before contacting us about a missing order. If we suspect that a customer's package has been stolen or the customer is committing some type of fraud, we reserve the right to refuse to supply further orders.

Q: What if my order is damaged in transit? What if a product has bad factory damage?
A: In the case of any items arriving damaged due to handling or factory cause, we can issue a replacement without charge, providing that a replacement is still available. We require you to return the damaged item(s), but we will either provide you with a return postage label or reimburse you for the shipping cost. Please do not return damaged items to us without contacting us first. Also, please keep in mind that minor jacket corner dings are very typical with shipped records, and these will not be considered for replacement.

Q: Do you sell second-hand products?
A: All items listed in the Sweat Records Web Store are brand new official releases. Currently we only sell second-hand (used) products in-store or via our Discogs page.

Q: Do you give discounts for large orders?
A: Occasionally we have a discount code for the web store or are running a promotion. Orders over $100 are eligible for free Media Mail shipping. In our physical store we have a Customer Loyalty Card program which offers $20 back after purchasing 12 LPs over $20 within a calendar year. If we see that you're a South Florida customer, we'll create a card/punch your card for web orders (note: local customers can use EITHER the web discount OR get the punches on your card). If you're interested in placing a VERY LARGE order (15+ records or multiple copies of a title), please get in touch so we can work with you one-on-one to acquire all the items you're interested in, we are happy to help.

Q: Do you have a shop I can visit?
A: Yes! Our brick-and-mortar shop is located at 5505 NE 2nd Ave in the Little Haiti neighborhood of Miami, FL. We definitely recommend coming in to dig if you're in town!

Q: Can you supply wholesale orders to shops and distributors?
A: The only items we can supply wholesale are our own Sweat Records Records label titles or certain Sweat Records-branded merch. Please get in touch via phone or email to discuss wholesale of the aforementioned items.

Q: What if I do not like the products I have ordered? Can I return them?
A: We currently only accept exchanges on apparel that hasn't been worn if you need to get a different size. Due the physically delicate nature of records (and the fact that you can pretty much verify whether or not you like the music by listening online first), we cannot accept returns on records.

Q: The artwork on the album I received doesn't exactly match that on the web store. Did I receive the wrong item?
A: Sometimes artwork is varied or updated depending on a pressing. We are unable to always update photos for each variant. In almost all cases, the music on the record is EXACTLY the same. If you want to verify an element of a listed item, please get in touch BEFORE ordering. If you believe you in fact received the entirely wrong album, please get in touch and let us know.