This is a quick update to let backers know that Steven has processed 5 cartons of Noops to me.
Upcoming Transit Timeline changes:
Recent changes to how goods are imported from overseas have resulted in a significant delay and backlog in businesses importing goods from overseas.
This change now requires all retailers and businesses (big or small) to create an online account and efile all customs documents that otherwise is typically only needed on a case by case basis.
This change is good in practice (it protects children and consumers from dangerous products and bootleg merchandise), but the shift in routine is causing a huge backlog at the border as they work to implement the system and work to get importers compliant.
There are a lot of speculations on goods being destroyed upon arrival, and understandably some fear amongst small business owners that their shipments may be destroyed due to “non compliance”.. the reality is: That isn’t as common as people might think, and importers are given plenty of heads up in the scenario they need to provide adequate documentation before the destruction of their goods. This type of practice is done with bootleg merchandise, or goods that have illegal substances in them. This is not a normal procedure for small batch imports.
I do not fear our goods being destroyed, just worry about the unpredictability right now with the final clearing times.
For added context, Franklin was our first shipment to suffer from these changes. He had landed at the port on the 10th of June, but his inspection took until June 25th to clear, effectively resulting in an almost 2 month transit time (he dispatched from China on May 15th or so).
What this means going forward: Right now, this just means that production arrival ETA’s will be shifted from 23-28 days, to now 35-40 days. I figure the longer I pre-estimate the arrival, the better it will be for transparency with backers.
Please be patient with businesses and small businesses like myself. I have started the process of getting my account registered (and at the time of this update got confirmation that my account is established and filed for small batch manufacturing), but understandably, thousands of people are doing the same, so the process is slower than expected.
I am tremendously thankful for the patience everyone has shown. Noopy’s growth has been great, and I have been doing everything I can to carefully adjust and navigate the growth in a scalable way that ensures the integrity of the brand continues to stay strong alongside it. There are bound to be setbacks and some goofs along the way, but as many of you can attest, I will always do what I can to take care of you and your order. A positive experience is something I strive for. A moment of positivity. A moment of compassion. And a moment of love.
Thank you for supporting me and my silly little guys. I am so excited to get them to you. 💕
I’ll be back in touch soon with hopefully more good news!
