Q: What are tariffs and how do they impact the toy and collectible industry?
A: Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods. In recent months, the U.S. has imposed significant tariffs on products imported from major manufacturing countries—primarily China and Vietnam, where over 90% of global action figures and collectibles are produced.
These tariffs started at 10% and have surged to as high as 145%, particularly affecting Chinese imports. Vietnam currently faces a 10% tariff, and both countries' rates remain in flux due to ongoing trade negotiations.
It’s important to know: foreign governments do not pay tariffs. U.S. importers—like our distributors and partners—pay them directly. These added costs often get passed along the supply chain to retailers and, ultimately, to collectors like you through increased product prices.
Q: How do these tariffs affect pricing at Nerd Urbanity?
A: Unfortunately, tariffs apply to all imports from the affected countries—including most pre-orders and incoming inventory. While we’re doing everything we can to minimize the impact through vendor negotiations and smarter logistics, some price increases are unavoidable.
Products currently in-stock were imported prior to tariff increases and will not be subject to additional surcharges. However, restocks or future shipments of the same item may carry new tariff-related price changes.
Q: What does this mean for pre-orders?
A: Pre-orders are affected by tariffs once the product arrives in the U.S. To maintain transparency, Nerd Urbanity will initially list pre-orders at their base price (without tariffs) and include a note stating:
“Excludes Tariff Surcharge – Final Price Will Be Confirmed Before Payment.”
Once we receive the item and can confirm the actual tariff surcharge, we’ll update your order total. You’ll always receive advance notice of the final price before payment is processed, and you’ll have the option to cancel without penalty.
Q: Can I cancel a pre-order if I don’t want to pay the additional tariff?
A: Yes. All customers will receive an update before their payment is processed. If you choose not to accept the final price with the tariff surcharge, you may cancel the order. We’ll happily assist with refunds of any deposits already paid.
Q: Are in-stock items subject to tariff surcharges?
A: No. If a product is already in our in-stock inventory, the price listed on NerdUrbanity.com includes any applicable tariff charges. No additional surcharge will be added at checkout for those items.
Q: Why might two customers see different tariff surcharges on the same product?
A: There are two main reasons this can happen:
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Timing of Purchase:
If a pre-order was placed before April 9th (when tariff rates sharply increased), we’ve worked to honor those early orders with a reduced surcharge—even if tariffs have since risen. Orders placed after that date may reflect the full surcharge. -
Timing of Shipment:
The same product may have been restocked at a different tariff rate. For example, a first batch might have been taxed at 10%, while a later shipment might carry a 30% or higher tariff. These rates vary based on international shipping schedules and U.S. Customs rulings.
Q: Will prices drop if tariffs are reduced or removed in the future?
A: Yes. If tariffs decrease or are eliminated, Nerd Urbanity will adjust or remove any surcharges applied to affected orders. We’re committed to being fair, transparent, and responsive as global trade policies evolve.
Our Commitment to the Nerd Urbanity Community
We know price changes and delays are frustrating, especially when it comes to your most anticipated pre-orders. We’re not happy about it either. But we promise to communicate clearly, keep our prices as fair as possible, and always give you the option to decide what works best for you.
Your support and passion for collecting are what keep this community strong. Thank you for being part of Nerd Urbanity.