How Shipping Works
All of our tiles originate in Japan, but we hold selected stock in our local markets to make supply faster and simpler.
This allows us to offer both immediate availability from local stock and a much wider range from Japan.
Because every project is different, delivery times can vary depending on where the tiles are held, when they are available and how they are being shipped.
Where are your tiles shipped from?
Our tiles are made in Japan.
For our main markets, we also hold selected local stock in Dubai, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Products held in Dubai, Germany or the UK are usually dispatched within 1 to 2 working days.
Delivery is typically completed within 1 to 10 days, depending on the distance from the warehouse to you.
Do you keep every tile in stock?
No.
Japanese tile collections are extensive and many products are made in relatively small quantities.
For this reason, we stock selected ranges locally and source the remainder directly from Japan when required.
Each product page will indicate whether the item is available from local stock or supplied from Japan.
Why don't you keep all products in stock locally?
Because the range is too large.
Our own database already includes more than 1,000 tile variations, and there are many thousands more available from our factories' current and back catalogues.
Holding every product in every market would significantly increase cost and reduce the range we can offer.
Our supply model allows clients to access a much wider selection of authentic Japanese tiles, while still keeping selected popular products available for faster local delivery.
How long does delivery from Japan take?
For tiles supplied from Japan, the shipping timeline starts once the tiles are available for dispatch.
- Dubai: typically 6 to 8 weeks from availability
- UK and Europe: typically 12 to 14 weeks from availability
This can vary depending on production schedules, shipping conditions, customs processing and local handling.
How are Japan orders shipped?
Large orders can usually travel on their own dedicated shipment. This is normally the fastest sea freight option.
Smaller orders can often travel with one of our scheduled stock shipments. This is usually much more cost-effective, but the order may need to wait for the next available dispatch.
Where both options are available, they will be shown at checkout so you can choose the balance of cost and timing that suits your project.
Why do you ship on pallets?
Tiles are heavy, fragile products.
Although individual cartons can technically be shipped, the risk of damage increases significantly.
For this reason, project orders are normally shipped on pallets to ensure they arrive safely and in good condition.
Pallet delivery is the safest and most reliable way to transport specialist ceramic materials.
Can I order samples?
Yes.
Samples can be ordered directly through our website.
Most samples are dispatched from Dubai or the UK, with selected products also available from Germany.
Typical sample delivery is between 2 and 10 days.
For architects, interior designers and other trade professionals, complimentary samples may be available through our Specifier Program.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes.
Our primary markets are the UAE, UK and Europe, where we hold stock and operate established supply chains.
We can also support projects in many other countries where the order size and shipping route are practical.
For projects outside our core markets, please contact us to discuss availability and shipping options.
Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes?
In our core markets of the UAE, UK and EU, our transaction with you is on a domestic basis.
This means you do not need to arrange import clearance or pay import duties separately to receive your order.
For projects outside these markets, import duties, taxes and customs clearance requirements vary by country and are usually the responsibility of the importer.
Where this applies, we will explain the process before confirming the order.
Can I return tiles?
Local stock items may be returned, provided they are unopened, undamaged and returned within the required time period.
Products supplied from Japan and all samples are non-returnable.
Because specialist tiles are often ordered specifically for a project, we strongly recommend reviewing samples and quantities carefully before ordering.
Many projects involve a mixture of local stock, Japanese stock, special orders and samples.
If you are unsure about lead times, availability or shipping options, please contact us and we will be happy to help.