Shipping Customs Policy

Shipping & Customs Policy

Last updated: 30 September 2025

1. General

This Policy sets out important information regarding shipping, customs clearance, duties, taxes, and related fees for orders placed on our online store (the “Store”). By placing an order, you acknowledge and agree to the terms below.

2. Incoterms & Responsibility for Import Charges

Unless expressly stated otherwise at checkout, all international shipments are sent on a DAP (Delivered at Place) basis. This means:

  • Product price and shipping fees shown at checkout do not include import duties, taxes (e.g., VAT/GST), brokerage, or other customs-related charges.
  • All import-related charges are assessed and collected by the destination country’s customs authority or its agents and are the sole responsibility of the recipient/importer.
  • Carriers or customs brokers may charge additional administrative/handling fees for clearance.

3. Region-Specific Guidance (Non-Exhaustive)

3.1 European Union (EU)

Orders shipped to EU Member States are generally subject to VAT and may be subject to customs duties depending on the product type, value, and origin. Rates and thresholds vary by country and HS (tariff) classification. Please consult your local customs office prior to purchase for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

3.2 United Kingdom (UK)

Orders shipped to the UK are generally subject to UK VAT and may be subject to customs duties based on product classification and order value. Additional clearance or brokerage fees charged by the carrier may apply.

3.3 Asia-Pacific

Rates and thresholds in Asia-Pacific (e.g., South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong SAR, Australia, New Zealand, etc.) vary widely by jurisdiction and product classification. Please verify applicable duties and taxes with your local customs authority before ordering.

3.4 North America

The United States and Canada apply import duties and taxes by HS classification, value, and applicable trade rules. Carriers may also collect customs brokerage fees on delivery.

4. Customs Clearance, Delays & Inspections

  • Customs processing times vary and may delay delivery beyond carrier estimates; such delays are outside our control.
  • Local authorities may require the recipient to provide identification, import permits, or other documentation.
  • We cannot alter invoice values, mark shipments as “gift,” or misstate contents for the purpose of reducing import charges.

5. Refusal of Charges, Unclaimed, or Returned Shipments

  • If the recipient refuses to pay duties/taxes/fees, or a shipment is unclaimed and returned to us, the original shipping cost is non-refundable.
  • Any return shipping, customs return fees, and carrier handling charges will be deducted from any eligible refund of product price.
  • If the returned goods are lost, damaged, or deemed non-returnable by customs, a refund may be reduced or unavailable.
  • Important: In the event that VAT payment is delayed or not completed and the goods are held by customs and subsequently returned to Japan, we will deduct the return shipping cost and any local taxes incurred from the refund amount. If these costs exceed the original payment, no refund can be issued. Please keep this in mind before placing your order.

6. Address Accuracy & Delivery Attempts

  • Customers are responsible for providing a complete and accurate delivery address (including building, unit, and access details).
  • Carrier re-delivery, address correction, and storage fees (if any) are borne by the recipient.

7. Split Shipments & Partial Deliveries

For operational reasons, we may ship items in separate parcels. Duties/taxes may be assessed per parcel by the customs authority. Delivery dates for split shipments can differ.

8. Currency Conversion & Valuation

Customs valuation may include product price, shipping, and insurance (if applicable). Currency conversion is performed by customs or the carrier using prevailing rates at the time of import and may differ from the rate shown at checkout.

9. Pre-Paid Duties/Taxes (If Offered)

If a pre-pay option is shown at checkout for your destination, estimated duties and taxes may be collected upfront by our Store or our logistics partner. In such cases, the carrier should not collect these charges again upon delivery. If you are asked to pay duplicate charges, please contact us immediately with supporting documents.

10. Contact

For any questions regarding shipping, customs, duties, or taxes, please contact us studio@the-blue-boy.com We recommend confirming local import rules with your customs authority prior to purchase.

Note: This Policy provides general information and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Import rules are subject to change without notice. The recipient is responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations of the destination country.

Worldwide shipping

We ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. Shipping costs are displayed exclusive of customs duties. Payment of customs duties is determined by the regulations of the recipient’s country. Please note that cancellations or refunds due to refusal to pay customs duties after an order has been placed will not be accepted. We kindly ask for your understanding before making a purchase.

Customer service

You can alwasy contact us to : studio@the-blue-boy.com