Perennial plug plants - too small to survive?

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I bought some perennials online earlier in the year but they have only just been delivered last week ("due to high numbers of orders"). They are very small (1-2" tall) and currently rather pathetic. I've planted them in 3" pots inside for the time being. I'd intended to grow them on then plant in the garden, but as they've come so late I'm sure they'll just get immediately eaten by snails/slugs if I plant them out. But what should I do with them over winter? Would they survive in pots outside if they were in a cold frame?

Can you tell us what plants they are? A lot depends on what they are and what their root system is like. When you repotted them, did the roots fill the pot or are they quite spindly? I definitely would not put such tiny plants in the garden as the wet and the frost will likely kill them. A cold frame to protect them would be your nest option

Take a photo of them for now .keep the paper work and, they fail, email the supplier. Most good supplies offer a refund.