Shipping policy

 

From My Studio in Germany to Collectors Worldwide

Each piece is handmade in Germany and shipped worldwide using trusted carriers.
Whether travelling locally or internationally, I package each work to withstand the journey.

Processing Time

  • In-stock works: dispatched within 3–5 business days.
  • Commissioned or made-to-order works: lead times confirmed when you place your order.

Estimated Delivery Times

  • Germany: 2–5 business days
  • EU: 5–10 business days
  • Rest of World: 7–21 business days
    These are estimates; customs clearance or courier delays may extend delivery times.

Shipping Costs

  • Calculated at checkout based on size, weight, and destination.
  • Large or high-value works may require a custom shipping quote.

International Shipments

  • Orders outside the EU may incur customs duties, taxes, or fees.
  • These are the buyer’s responsibility — please check with your local customs office before ordering.

Tracking & Insurance

  • All shipments include tracking, provided by email once dispatched.
  • High-value works are insured for their full purchase price.

Packaging

Pieces are wrapped in protective materials and often double-boxed for added safety.
Eco-friendly packing materials are used where possible, without reducing protection.


Shipping to the United States

As of 2025, U.S. Customs has introduced new regulations and surcharges that affect international shipments. If you are ordering from the U.S., please be aware of the following:

Import Duties & Taxes

  • All shipments are sent Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU). This means any customs or import duties are charged to the recipient upon arrival in the U.S.

  • Duties are based on the declared value of the work and calculated by U.S. Customs.

  • If import duties are not paid and the parcel is returned, associated postal charges, return shipment costs, and handling fees will be deducted from any refund.

New U.S. Import Rules (2025)

  • A 10% baseline surcharge may apply to most imports.

  • A potential reciprocal tariff of up to 24% has been announced but is not currently in effect.

  • Standard HTS and Excise Duties remain unchanged.

How Duties Are Paid

In most cases, my trusted shipping partners (such as DHL Express) handle customs clearance and pay the duties upfront on your behalf. You will then be invoiced for reimbursement before or at delivery.
If you prefer to use your own customs broker, you may pay duties directly to U.S. Customs through:

  1. Mail (check/money order from a U.S. bank)

  2. In-person at a Customs office (cash, check, or card at select ports)

  3. ACH electronic payment (for businesses with an ACH account)

What This Means for You

  • If you are a private buyer (purchasing for personal use), you will typically be responsible for duties before your shipment is released.

  • If you are purchasing on behalf of a business, responsibilities depend on the agreed shipping terms.

  • Providing correct shipping details is the buyer’s responsibility. If incorrect details are supplied and not corrected before dispatch, I cannot accept responsibility for lost parcels, and no refund will be offered.

Important Note

U.S. import duties and surcharges can change, and the above reflects current policies as of 2025. Please check with your local customs office if you need precise, up-to-date information before ordering.

 

Questions Before You Buy?

I’m happy to share extra photos, videos, or details so you can make your choice with confidence.

Please email me at: info@tomdarbydesign.com