Shipping & Returns Policy

Effective Date: 16/10/2025
Last Updated: 16/10/2025

At Rookehurste Fine Antiques, every object we handle is treated with the utmost respect and care. Our shipping and return policies are designed to protect both our clients and the rare, often irreplaceable, pieces entrusted to us.

We ship antiques and fine art domestically and internationally with select carriers who specialize in fragile and high-value items. Every shipment is prepared with precision and attention to detail to ensure safe arrival.

Processing Time:
Most orders are processed within 3–5 business days after payment is received in full. Certain items—particularly those requiring custom crating or export documentation—may take longer. We will notify you promptly of any extended handling time.

Carriers & Methods:

• We partner with trusted fine-art and antique logistics specialists, as well as UPS, FedEx, USPS Priority, and other reputable carriers.
   
• Larger or delicate pieces may be shipped via white-glove freight or courier delivery.
   
• Local pickup by appointment is available at our Newburgh, Indiana location.
   

Shipping Costs:
Shipping rates are calculated based on size, weight, destination, and insurance requirements. Quotes will be provided prior to payment and confirmed in writing.

Each item is individually packed using museum-grade materials to minimize vibration, pressure, and moisture exposure.
When appropriate, items are double-boxed, foam-secured, or crated by professional art handlers. We photograph items prior to packing for documentation purposes.

All shipments are insured for their full declared value unless the buyer explicitly declines insurance in writing.
Once an insured shipment leaves our care, liability transfers to the shipping carrier or the buyer, depending on the insurance terms.
If you choose to arrange your own carrier or courier, Rookehurste Fine Antiques assumes no responsibility for loss or damage once the item is released for transport.

We are pleased to ship worldwide. However, please note:

• Buyers are responsible for any customs duties, taxes, or import fees assessed by their country.
   
• International deliveries may be subject to inspection and clearance delays.
   
• Certain materials (e.g., ivory, tortoiseshell, certain woods) may be restricted by export or import regulations. We will advise you in advance if such issues apply.
   

We strongly recommend that buyers inspect shipments immediately upon delivery.
If damage occurs during transit:

1. Retain all original packaging.
    
2. Photograph the item and packaging immediately.
    
3. Notify both the carrier and Rookehurste Fine Antiques within 48 hours of delivery.
    

We will assist you in filing a claim with the carrier or insurer. Claims filed outside of this window may not be honored.

Due to the unique and often one-of-a-kind nature of our inventory, all sales are final unless otherwise specified in writing at the time of purchase.

Exceptions may be considered only when:

• The item received materially differs from its online description or photographs, and
   
• The buyer notifies us within 3 days of delivery with supporting documentation and photographs.
   

If a return is approved:

• The buyer is responsible for all return shipping, insurance, and packing costs.
   
• The item must be returned in the exact condition it was received, using equivalent professional packaging.
   
• Refunds (if applicable) will be issued after inspection and may be subject to a 10–15% restocking or handling fee.
   

Custom orders, appraisals, consultations, and restoration services are non-refundable.

Buyers choosing local pickup must schedule an appointment in advance.
Once items are collected and signed for, they are considered delivered and accepted. We cannot be responsible for damage occurring after pickup.

Orders may be canceled prior to shipment only if packing and processing have not begun. Once an order enters the shipping queue or has been crated, cancellation is no longer possible.

For shipping quotes, status updates, or return authorization requests, please contact:

Rookehurste Fine Antiques
Email: enquiries@rookehurste.com
Website: www.rookehurste.com
Location: Newburgh, Indiana, USA

We may revise this policy as needed to reflect operational or legal updates. The latest version will always be posted on our website with the revised “Effective Date".