FAQ

Japanstones.shop – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Answers about authentic Japanese granite, shipping, customs duties, payment, and installation.
This large-text version ensures readability on all devices for international buyers.

Products

Question Answer
Are your products genuine granite? Yes. We never sell concrete, resin, or ceramic items. Every product is handcrafted from authentic Japanese granite by skilled stonemasons. Some artisans also work with deep-seated (plutonic) rock or small carved stones. See each product page for details.
Will I receive the exact item shown? Yes. Each piece is photographed individually, and you receive the exact item shown. Minor natural variations—mica, iron, or grain—reflect genuine stone.
Do colors or textures vary? Yes. Natural differences (mica, tone, grain, small pinholes) are part of the stone’s character, not defects.
Can you issue Certificates of Origin? Yes, for B2B transactions. We can issue EPA/CPTPP certificates for tariff benefits.
Outdoor durability Granite is extremely weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. For cold regions, ensure proper drainage and frost prevention.
Warranty No official warranty, but natural granite lasts for decades—often more than 100 years—with little maintenance.

Shipping & Lead Time

Question Answer
Lead times
  • In-stock (small/medium): Ships within 1–2 business days after payment. Delivered by UPS/DHL/FedEx in 3–14 days (tracking included).
  • Large/heavy (lanterns/statues): Sea freight with tracking. Production, packing, customs, and transit take about 3–6 months depending on region.
Can individuals buy large products? Large items are mainly for B2B landscapers. Due to their weight and need for forklifts or cranes, individual installations are difficult. Please contact a local contractor.
Which carriers do you use? UPS, DHL, and FedEx for small/medium; multiple sea freight forwarders for large shipments.
Pallet or crate packing Yes. Large items are shipped on fumigated wooden pallets/crates, ready for forklift or crane handling.
Damage upon arrival Please report within 48 hours. Photograph the package and damaged areas before and after unboxing. Keep all packing materials for insurance claims.
Shipping insurance All shipments are insured. For high-value cargo, we can issue CIF-based insurance documents.
Container shipping (FCL) Yes. 20ft and 40ft containers are available. Combining multiple products reduces overall freight costs.

Duties & Taxes

Question Answer
Are duties and taxes included in prices? No. Customs duties, import taxes, and brokerage fees are paid by the buyer.
U.S. de minimis ($800) Since Aug 29, 2025, shipments to the U.S. can be taxed even under USD 800. Our products are Made in Japan, with about a 15% baseline duty plus carrier clearance fees. We ship DDU/DAP (duties unpaid).
EU GPSR compliance We are registered with a GPSR agent. However, each EU country has its own packaging law, so we do not sell across the entire EU. B2B shipments may be reviewed individually.
HS code Usually HS 6802 (worked monumental/building stone of granite). Final classification depends on local customs.
Do you ship worldwide? Countries currently unavailable may be accepted for B2B transactions. In Europe, personal sales are limited by packaging laws. If you’re outside eligible regions, please contact us by email.
Do you offer DDP? No. We do not offer DDP. All shipments are under DDU/DAP terms.

Payment & Orders

Question Answer
Payment methods Shopify checkout supports Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and PayPal. For B2B orders, we only accept Wise (TransferWise).
Currency All prices are in USD. You can pay in your country’s currency via Shopify auto conversion.
B2B terms 50% deposit upon order, 50% before shipping. Incoterms (EXW, FOB Nagoya, CIF, DAP) specified in the contract. No chargebacks. Made-to-order items are not returnable.
Cancellation or returns Custom/large items: cannot be canceled. In-stock items: cancelable before shipment (fees apply). No returns after dispatch.
Do you sell in Japan? No. We do not sell domestically to avoid conflicts with partner stonemasons. We currently work with 12 artisans and continue to expand.
Bulk discounts Yes. Available for large or container-based orders.
PDF quote or invoice Available after order details are finalized.

Installation & Handling

Question Answer
How to install large stone products? Hire a landscaping or construction company with forklifts or cranes. For B2B partnership, please contact us.
Risk during shipping Risk transfer follows Incoterms (FOB Nagoya, CIF destination port, DAP address). Installation damage is not covered.
Foundation & anti-tip Ensure proper leveling, drainage, and anti-tip measures. In seismic zones, use anchor fixation.
Maintenance Granite is nearly maintenance-free. For moss or stains, use neutral detergent and a soft brush. Avoid close-range power washing.
Local partners We are developing landscaping networks in the US and UK and can recommend partners.
Pallet or crate disposal Follow local regulations. Fumigated wood may have specific rules; reuse is possible.

Note: Each product photo represents the exact item shipped unless otherwise noted.