While the head and hands will be vinyl - you have a choice of two different types of body - one is referred to as Cortex and the other as Vinyl. Both body types are pre-built.Why DHL Orders May Incur Higher Duties
Quick Summary
Choosing DHL may lead to higher import taxes because they can change the product classification we declare, potentially moving items from lower-tax categories (like collectibles) to categories with higher duty rates (such as toys). FedEx and EMS typically keep the classifications we declare.
Customer Questions and DHL's Response
Many customers have been asking us why their Smart Doll orders were classified differently than expected during customs processing. After inquiry with DHL Japan, they confirmed they change HS code classifications based on their own decision-making process, which differs from how other international couriers handle product classifications.
What This Means for You
When you order a Smart Doll, we classify it as a collectible (which usually has lower import duties). However:
With DHL: They may reclassify your order as a toy, which could mean higher customs fees when it arrives
With FedEx/EMS: Your order stays classified as a collectible as we declared it
With FedEx/EMS: Your order stays classified as a collectible as we declared it
The Details
DHL Japan has confirmed that while they refer to our declarations, they use "human judgment" to change product classifications during shipping, which has resulted in inconsistent handling of identical products. This means:
- Your Smart Doll might be classified differently each time you order
- You won't be notified if they change the classification
- Import costs become harder to predict
Real Impact on Your Wallet
If your Smart Doll gets reclassified from collectible to toy:
- You may pay higher customs duties
- Delivery costs could be more than expected
- The same product might cost different amounts to import on different orders
Our Recommendation
For predictable costs: Choose FedEx
If you prefer DHL: Budget for potentially higher import fees
If you prefer DHL: Budget for potentially higher import fees
Why This Matters for Business Customers
If you're a business owner considering DHL for your own shipping:
- Product classifications may be changed without notice
- This could affect your customers' costs
- Consistency in import charges may vary
What Smart Doll Does
We always declare our products accurately as collectibles with detailed descriptions. Here's why Smart Dolls qualify as collectibles rather than toys:
- Smart Dolls are hand-assembled in Japan by a small team in limited quantities - sometimes as few as a single piece or just 10 units per release. Each Smart Doll's internal frame bears the maker's mark of the team member who crafted it, and our website displays real-time availability reflecting our small production quantities.
- They're designed as collectible fashion dolls with deep storytelling, tailored apparel, and extensive customization options. Production quantities are intentionally limited by our small team approach, contrasting sharply with mass-produced items.
- Smart Dolls are primarily purchased by adult collectors, though younger enthusiasts enjoy them with adult supervision. They're marketed and designed for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Our products meet the collectible criteria outlined in WCO (World Customs Organization) guidelines - the same international standards that DHL claims to follow. The difference is in how each shipping company applies these internationally recognized classification standards.
Bottom Line
We want you to know about these policies so you can choose the shipping option that works best for your budget and expectations.
Information current as of September 2025
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