AKOLIYA GROUP

Shipping Policy

Effective Date: May 24, 2025

This document delineates the comprehensive shipping, insurance, and delivery policy (“Policy”) for all international wholesale exports of loose diamonds and diamond jewellery (“Goods”) by Akoliya Group, a registered entity based in the United Kingdom (“the Company”). This Policy is an integral part of our Terms of Service and is legally binding on all clients, purchasers, and their agents (“the Client”). By placing an order with Akoliya Group, the Client acknowledges and agrees to the terms and conditions set forth herein.

Article 1: Philosophy of Delivery – Brilliance Secured & Delivered

At Akoliya Group, we recognize that the timely and secure delivery of high-value Goods is paramount to the success of our Clients’ businesses. Our shipping and logistics framework is built upon pillars of security, transparency, and regulatory compliance. We have engineered a meticulous process to ensure that from our facilities in the UK to your international doorstep, your consignment is protected, fully insured, and handled with the utmost professionalism. This Policy is designed to provide our Clients with complete clarity and confidence in our delivery promise.

Article 2: Scope of International Shipping & Serviceable Destinations

Akoliya Group is proud to facilitate the global trade of diamonds and diamond jewellery. We maintain robust shipping arrangements to the following international regions and countries:

NORTH AMERICA

  • United States of America
  • Canada

EUROPE

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom

ASIA-PACIFIC & MIDDLE EAST

  • Australia
  • Hong Kong
  • Japan
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Please Note: Clients from destinations not explicitly listed are encouraged to contact our export department to inquire about the feasibility and terms of shipment. The Company reserves the right to amend this list of serviceable destinations at any time based on logistical carrier capabilities and international trade regulations.

Article 3: General Shipping & Handling Protocols

3.1. Order Processing & Dispatch Timelines:

  • Loose Diamond Consignments: Orders for loose diamonds are typically processed and prepared for dispatch within 3 to 5 business days following the complete verification of payment and all requisite documentation.
  • Diamond Jewellery Orders: Due to the intricate craftsmanship involved, diamond jewellery orders will have a “ships by” date specified on the individual proforma invoice. This date reflects the manufacturing and setting time required.
  • The Company does not dispatch or facilitate delivery on weekends (Saturday, Sunday) or on nationally recognized public holidays in the United Kingdom.

3.2. Mandatory Signature on Delivery: For the security of your high-value consignment, all shipments dispatched by Akoliya Group require a direct signature from the registered Client or an authorized representative upon delivery. Our carriers are under strict instructions not to leave packages unattended or deliver to unauthorized persons.

3.3. Prohibition of P.O. Box Addresses: Under no circumstances can orders be shipped to a Post Office (P.O.) Box, APO, or FPO address. A complete and accurate physical street address for the registered business entity is mandatory for all orders.

3.4. Minimum Order Value: To ensure the economic viability of wholesale export, a minimum order value may be applicable. This will be communicated and agreed upon during the quotation and proforma invoice stage.

Article 4: Shipping Costs, Carrier & Delivery Timeframes

4.1. Standardized Shipping & Handling Fee: For transparency and ease of business, Akoliya Group has instituted a fixed, non-refundable shipping and handling fee of £150.00 GBP (One Hundred and Fifty Great British Pounds) or its equivalent in USD/EUR at the prevailing exchange rate. This flat fee applies to all orders, irrespective of the number of items, total carat weight, or final destination.

4.2. Designated Logistics Partners: All international shipments are facilitated through globally recognized, secure courier services specializing in high-value cargo, such as UPS, FedEx®, DHL Express®, or Malca-Amit. The choice of carrier is at the sole discretion of Akoliya Group to ensure the most efficient and secure route to the destination.

4.3. Estimated Transit Times: Shipments are dispatched via an International Priority service. The estimated transit time, from the date of dispatch from our UK facility, is 5 to 10 business days. This is an estimate and not a guarantee. The Client acknowledges that delays may occur due to customs clearance procedures, carrier-related issues, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the Company.

Article 5: Customs, Duties, and Taxation – The Client’s Responsibility

5.1. Importer of Record: The Client is, for all legal and transactional purposes, the “Importer of Record” in the destination country. As such, the Client is solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy of all declarations and for the payment of any and all applicable customs duties, import taxes (e.g., Value Added Tax (VAT), Goods and Services Tax (GST)), and any other clearance fees levied by the destination country’s government and customs authorities.

5.2. Country-Specific Information:

  • United States of America: Currently, loose, polished diamonds imported from the UK are exempt from US federal import duties. However, diamond jewellery typically incurs a tariff (ranging from 5.5% to 7%). The Client acknowledges that US trade policies are subject to change, including the potential for reciprocal tariffs. The Client is advised to consult with a US-based customs broker for the most current rates and regulations.
  • United Kingdom: Pursuant to applicable UK laws, imports of diamonds and jewellery are subject to VAT at the current rate (20%). The Client is responsible for the payment of this VAT.
  • European Union (e.g., Belgium): Loose diamonds and jewellery are generally exempt from import duties. However, a standard VAT (e.g., 21% in Belgium) is levied on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the goods. Registered diamond traders within the EU may be eligible for VAT deferment or exemption schemes and should consult their local tax authorities.
  • Canada: Imports are subject to a 5% federal GST. Depending on the province of delivery, a Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) or Provincial Sales Tax (PST) may also apply.
  • United Arab Emirates: A 5% import duty and a 5% VAT are typically applicable to the value of the imported goods.

5.3. Refusal to Pay Duties & Taxes: Should the Client refuse to pay the requisite duties and taxes, resulting in the shipment being returned to Akoliya Group, the Client will be liable for all costs incurred. This includes the original shipping fee, the return shipping fee, any duties imposed on the return, and a restocking fee of 20% of the total invoice value.

Article 6: Legal Compliance & Export Documentation

Akoliya Group guarantees that all exports are conducted in strict adherence to UK and international law. Each shipment will be accompanied by a comprehensive set of legally required documents:

6.1. Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS): All rough and polished diamond exports are compliant with the KPCS to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds. Each shipment is accompanied by a valid, government-issued Kimberley Process Certificate, ensuring the conflict-free origin of the goods.

6.2. Standard Documentation Package: Each shipment will include:

  • Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice listing the buyer, seller, full description of the Goods (including carat weight, cut, color, clarity), quantity, and the declared value for customs purposes.
  • Airway Bill (AWB): The official shipping contract issued by the carrier, detailing the transit route.
  • Packing List: A comprehensive list of the contents of the parcel.
  • Company Registration: Proof of our registration with UK Companies House.
  • Export Licence: Certification authorizing the export of high-value Goods from the UK.

Article 7: Insurance & Risk of Loss

7.1. Comprehensive Marine Insurance: Every shipment is covered by a comprehensive, all-risk marine insurance policy from the moment it leaves our facility until it is signed for upon delivery. This policy covers the full wholesale invoice value of the Goods against loss, theft, or damage during transit.

7.2. Inspection Upon Delivery: It is the Client’s absolute responsibility to inspect the package for any signs of tampering, damage, or compromise before signing for the delivery. If the package appears damaged, the Client must refuse the delivery and immediately contact Akoliya Group’s export department within 24 hours.

7.3. Claim Process: In the unfortunate event of a confirmed loss or damage during transit, Akoliya Group will manage the entire insurance claim process. The Client agrees to provide full cooperation, including any required statements or documentation, to facilitate the claim. Once the insurer settles the claim, the Company will offer the Client the choice of a full refund or a replacement order of equivalent value.

Article 8: B2B Returns, Refunds & Cancellations

8.1. Cancellation Policy: An order may be cancelled by the Client in writing within 24 hours of payment confirmation without penalty. Cancellations requested after this period may be subject to a cancellation fee, especially if the Goods have already been prepared for dispatch or if manufacturing has commenced.

8.2. Return Policy (Wholesale): Given the nature of wholesale transactions, returns are highly restricted and are not accepted for reasons of buyer’s remorse or market fluctuation. Returns will only be considered in the following two scenarios:

  • Shipment Error: If the Goods received do not materially conform to the specifications detailed on the final invoice.
  • Undisclosed Defect: In the unlikely event of a significant manufacturing defect not identified in the grading report or invoice.

8.3. Return Authorization: To initiate a return, the Client must contact Akoliya Group in writing within three (3) business days of receiving the shipment, providing photographic evidence and a detailed description of the discrepancy. The Company will investigate the claim and, if deemed valid, will issue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and detailed return instructions.

8.4. Return Conditions and Process:
Any authorised return must be sent back to Akoliya Group within five (5) business days of receiving the Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. The Goods must be returned in their original, unopened, and tamper-evident packaging, accompanied by all original documentation, certificates, and accessories.

The Client is responsible for the secure packaging and insurance of the return shipment. We recommend using a tracked and signed-for courier service to ensure safe transit. Akoliya Group will not be liable for any loss or damage occurring during the return journey.

The RMA number must be clearly displayed on the outside of the return parcel to ensure efficient processing upon receipt.

8.5. Refunds:
Upon receipt and thorough inspection of the returned Goods, Akoliya Group will verify the validity of the claim. If the return is approved, a full refund of the item’s invoice value will be issued to the Client’s original payment method within 30 days. Please note, the original shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.

8.6. Exceptions and Limitations:
Returns will not be accepted under the following circumstances:

  • Buyer’s remorse, change of mind, or subjective dissatisfaction with the product’s appearance or style.
  • Damage or tampering caused after delivery and outside Akoliya Group’s control.
  • Goods returned without an RMA number or outside the specified return window.
  • Any goods that have been altered, resized, or customised after delivery.

8.7. Cancellation Policy:
Orders may be cancelled by the Client without penalty within 24 hours of payment confirmation, provided the Goods have not yet been dispatched. Cancellations requested after this period may incur fees, especially if the order has entered production or shipping stages. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing.