Shipping policy
Shipping Policy
SHIPPING OVERVIEW
At Nicholas Wells Antiques, we take great care in the packing, handling and transportation of antique and decorative objects. Many items are unique, fragile and irreplaceable, and we therefore work with specialist couriers and shipping partners wherever appropriate.
All shipping arrangements are handled individually depending on the size, value, fragility and destination of the item.
UNITED KINGDOM SHIPPING
We ship throughout the United Kingdom using trusted courier and specialist delivery services.
Shipping charges are calculated based on:
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size and weight;
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fragility;
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insurance requirements; and
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destination postcode.
Smaller items may be dispatched via insured parcel courier services, while larger furniture, lighting or fragile works may require specialist transport.
Estimated delivery times are provided for guidance only and are not guaranteed.
EUROPEAN SHIPPING
We regularly arrange delivery throughout Europe and can assist with:
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specialist packing;
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insured transport;
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export documentation where required; and
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customs paperwork.
Buyers are responsible for all local import duties, VAT, customs charges and clearance fees applicable in their country.
Delays caused by customs processing are outside our control.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING (OUTSIDE UK & EUROPE)
We ship internationally on a case-by-case basis.
For destinations outside the United Kingdom and Europe:
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all sales are final;
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no returns or cancellations are accepted once dispatched;
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buyers are responsible for all import duties, taxes and customs fees; and
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additional export documentation or licences may be required for certain antique items.
We strongly encourage international clients to request shipping quotations and condition reports prior to purchase.
PROCESSING TIMES
Most orders are prepared and dispatched within 3–10 business days, depending on the complexity of packing and transport arrangements.
Certain items, particularly furniture, lighting or delicate works, may require additional preparation time.
Where specialist crating or export documentation is required, dispatch may take longer.
RISK, TITLE AND INSURANCE
Risk in the goods passes to the buyer upon collection by the shipping carrier.
We recommend that all shipments are fully insured in transit. Insurance costs may be included separately within the shipping quotation.
Title to goods transfers only once full payment has been received.
DELIVERY ACCESS
It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure:
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safe and suitable access to the delivery address;
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that items will fit through entrances, staircases and lifts; and
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that any required assistance or installation arrangements are made in advance.
Additional charges may apply for failed deliveries, storage, redelivery attempts or specialist access requirements.
DAMAGED OR LOST ITEMS
If an item arrives damaged, you must notify us within 48 hours of delivery and retain all original packaging materials.
Failure to retain packaging may affect the ability to process an insurance claim.
We are not responsible for delays, losses or damage caused by third-party carriers once goods are in transit, although we will assist where possible with claims and supporting documentation.
COLLECTIONS
Collection in person or via a buyer-appointed courier can be arranged by prior appointment.
Once collected by the buyer or their appointed carrier, all responsibility and risk passes to the buyer.
CONTACT
For shipping quotations, specialist delivery arrangements or export enquiries, please contact:
