Updated Policy on HS Code Classification We want to be transparent about how Smart Doll products are declared for international shipping and why we’ve made a small but important change to the way they’re categorized. Until now, we have declared Smart Dolls as collectibles under HS Code 9703 (Original sculptures and statuary) — a classification that better reflected our artisanal production methods, limited quantities, and collector-focused market. However, international shipping carriers — particularly FedEx and, to a lesser extent, DHL — have recently begun enforcing additional documentation requirements for any item classified as “art.” These forms include questions such as: Does the item contain human remains? Has it been under water for over 100 years? Was it recovered from an archaeological excavation? Is it of ethnological or paleontological interest (for example, dinosaur fossils)? As entertaining as it might be to imagine a Smart Doll fished out of an ancient shipwreck or discovered at a dinosaur dig site, the reality is that these new requirements add unnecessary paperwork and delays for both our team and our customers. To prevent your packages from being held up while someone confirms that your doll is not, in fact, an ancient relic, we’ve decided to update our customs classification. New Classification Effective immediately, all Smart Doll products will be declared under HS Code 9503 — “Toys, games, and dolls representing only human beings.” This change is purely administrative and helps streamline customs clearance and avoid redundant cultural-property forms. It does not change how Smart Dolls are designed, produced, or enjoyed. Why HS 9503 Makes Sense (Globally) HS Code 9503 is the international classification for dolls, figures, and similar creations under the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System. According to the WCO’s official definition: “Articles designed for the amusement of persons (children or adults). This heading also covers toys intended essentially for amusement, even if they may have educational value, or represent an artistic or decorative creation.” In other words, 9503 isn’t limited to playthings for children — it also covers artistic or collectible dolls designed for display or self-expression. Many adult-oriented collectibles (such as Hot Toys, Medicom’s BE@RBRICK, and designer vinyl figures) also fall under 9503, because they represent human or fictional forms and share similar construction and purpose. So while Smart Dolls are crafted for creativity and artistic display rather than mass play, they still fit within the global customs definition of HS 9503. This allows us to avoid redundant “art verification” forms while remaining fully compliant with international customs law. What This Means (and Doesn’t Mean) This update does not mean Smart Doll has become a “toy” in the conventional sense. Smart Dolls remain: Hand-assembled in Japan by a small, dedicated team Produced in limited numbers, sometimes as few as ten per release Crafted for display, photography, and creative expression, not mass-market play Our community includes artists, designers, educators, and collectors of all ages — and we proudly say “Children Welcome.” While LEGO says “Adults Welcome” to remind grown-ups that play and creativity don’t have an age limit, our message is the opposite but carries the same spirit — that children are welcome to explore Smart Doll, to learn, create, and imagine, with the same respect we give our adult collectors. Families may guide how younger fans engage with Smart Doll, but creativity doesn’t have an age restriction — and we believe curiosity and imagination should be encouraged in everyone. Product Declarations for Customs and Couriers For Smart Doll characters: COLLECTIBLE FASHION FIGURE (Made in Japan), AGE 15+, sculpted body made of soft vinyl (PVC), with an internal frame composed of ABS and POM engineering plastics. Intended for display and photography. Manufacturer: MIRAI K.K., 3-6-33 Nishi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0031, Japan. Contact: [email protected] For apparel: APPAREL ACCESSORY FOR COLLECTIBLE FASHION FIGURE (Made in Japan), AGE 15+, made of fabric (cotton, polyester, or synthetic blends). Intended for display and photography. Manufacturer: MIRAI K.K., 3-6-33 Nishi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0031, Japan. Contact: [email protected] For option parts: ACCESSORY FOR COLLECTIBLE FASHION FIGURE (Made in Japan), AGE 15+, made of soft vinyl (PVC). Intended for display and photography. Manufacturer: MIRAI K.K., 3-6-33 Nishi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0031, Japan. Contact: [email protected] For mixed-material items: ACCESSORY FOR COLLECTIBLE FASHION FIGURE (Made in Japan), AGE 15+, made of materials including fabric (synthetics or cotton blends), PVC (soft vinyl), ABS, or other engineering plastics. Intended for display and photography. Manufacturer: MIRAI K.K., 3-6-33 Nishi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0031, Japan. Contact: [email protected] Final Note Nothing about Smart Doll’s philosophy has changed — only the way we describe them on customs paperwork. This small adjustment keeps the focus on what matters: making sure your Smart Doll arrives safely, quickly, and without a customs officer somewhere having to decide whether she qualifies as an archaeological artifact…
