Customer Service

30.10.2023

1/ ORDERING

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Cédric Etienne’s Orders & Payment Policy. This policy outlines the terms and conditions that apply to the procurement of goods ordered by professionals and / or consumers at www.cedricetienne.com or, unless stated otherwise, through alternative distribution and marketing channels (e.g., in store, fairs etc.).

This policy is an integral part of our General Terms & Conditions (GTCS). We advise you to carefully review our GTCS before placing an order. When you place an order with us you accept the application of these Terms & Conditions.

CHANGES
Cédric Etienne reserves the right to periodically revise and update its GTCS from time to time. The date above indicates the most recent revision of this agreement. It is your responsibility to stay informed of any changes. These modifications will not apply to orders placed before the publication of the revised GTCS. If you have inquiries or require clarification about the following information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

ORDER PLACEMENT
Our Order placement is tailored to accommodate the diverse nature of our products, ensuring that each order receives the appropriate attention. We understand that different items may require unique customizations and shipping considerations.

INQUIRY PURCHASES
Certain items, due to their nature, customizations, and shipping intricacies, are exclusively available for order via email or through our inquiry form. This allows a personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. Our team is at your disposal to assist with your specific project/order, guide you through the available customizations and shipping options.

Upon confirming your order, production commences once an approved invoice with finishing specifications and a non-refundable deposit of 50% is received. The remaining 50% balance is due prior to shipping. For orders under €4,000, we require full upfront payment. It’s important to note that made-to-order items are not eligible for cancellation, alteration, return, or refund.

CUSTOM REQUESTS AND DESIGN MODIFICATIONS
Modifications beyond standard specifications may be possible. Requests for modifications require designer/manufacturer approval and must be submitted in writing to studio@cedricetienne.com. Additional lead time and surcharges may apply.

CANCELLATIONS & CHANGE OF ORDER
Changes in orders, returns or cancellations depend on the item and are sometimes possible, please contact us for further information. If you need to cancel your order, you must do so within 24 hours of placing it. We do not accept cancellations on rush orders that have been placed.

For Made-to-Order items, production commences shortly after orders are placed. Therefore, we are only able to change your order if manufacturing has not already started. Once your order has been confirmed, any request for subsequent changes must be sent in writing. No guarantee can be given that the requested change/s can be made. All amendments will need to be approved by the manufacturer and such amendments may incur in additional charges. If you choose to cancel your order prior to delivery, your 50% deposit will not be refunded.

PRICE
Depending on the selected country of destination, our listed prices are either inclusive or exclusive of the statutory value-added tax (VAT) and exclude shipping. They’re shown by default in EUR. While orders are processed in EUR, it’s important to note that any exchange rate or currency charges imposed by your bank are beyond our control.

While we endeavor to present accurate prices, errors may occasionally occur. In the event that the price of any product you have ordered is incorrect, we will promptly notify you, offering the choice to confirm your order at the correct price or cancel it.

IMPORT DUTIES & TAXES
Depending on the selected country of destination and the item/s, our listed prices are either inclusive or exclusive of the statutory value-added tax (VAT) and exclude shipping. Statutory VAT applies within the EU, the standard rate being 21%, which applies to all goods not qualifying for reduced 6% VAT rates. Within the EU, all import taxes and duties are already incorporated into the final purchase price.

A VAT exemption is applicable under the following circumstances:

(1) Businesses with a valid EU VAT Number: If you are an organization or business with a valid EU VAT number, the VAT amount will be deducted from the purchase price.

(2) Shipments outside of the EU (Delivered Duty Unpaid – DDU): For shipments outside of the EU, they will be processed as Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU). This implies that no VAT will be levied on these shipments. However, please take into account that local import duties, taxes, and custom clearance fees may be imposed by the customs authority of the destination country.

It’s important to note that Cédric Etienne holds no responsibility for VAT, fees, or taxes on orders to countries outside the EU, and we cannot predict or control these charges. As the customer/recipient, you are responsible for all local import duties and taxes imposed by customs. Ensuring the prompt payment of these charges is essential to ensure the timely release of your order. Failure to do so may result in delays or complications with your order.

Please be aware that any additional costs related to storage or shipping resulting from a lack of customs clearance or failure to pay duties and taxes are not covered by Cédric Etienne. To avoid unforeseen expenses, we strongly recommend reaching out to your local customs office to obtain accurate information about applicable rules and fees.

PAYMENT
Payment options are displayed at checkout, we accept all major credit cards, including: Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Maestro (accepted for payment in Euros only). For invoice, partial payment and direct payment, we also accept wire transfer.

PRICE MATCH
We aim to offer our products at the price determined by our suppliers, so that you always feel confident that you are doing fair business with us. If, however, you come across a lower price, you’re welcome to reach out for a price match. Please contact us with information in the form of a valid quote or a link to an authorized sellers’ website. We can match the price if it concerns the product in the same design and with the same delivery options. We match the price, including shipping if it is not part of a promotion or stock clearance. Requests can be made when placing your order or within a 14 day return window.

FRAUD
Cédric Etienne reserves the right to cancel and refund orders suspected of fraudulent or harmful conduct to ensure the security of consumers’ transactions via stvincents.co. We may provide transaction information to relevant authorities or payment partners if required in cases of suspected fraudulent transactions or identity theft. Individuals violating these rules may face prosecution.

2/ SHIPPING

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Cédric Etienne’s Shipping Policy. This  policy outlines our terms and conditions related to shipping, delivery services, collection, inspection, and handling of goods.

This policy is an integral part of our General Terms & Conditions (GTCS). We advise you to carefully review our GTCS before placing an order. When you place an order with us you accept the application of these Terms & Conditions.

CHANGES
Cédric Etienne reserves the right to periodically revise and update its GTCS from time to time. The date above indicates the most recent revision of this agreement. It is your responsibility to stay informed of any changes. These modifications will not apply to orders placed before the publication of the revised GTCS. If you have inquiries or require clarification about the following information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

WORLDWIDE SHIPPING
Cédric Etienne offers worldwide shipping to most countries.
As a service to our customers, Cédric Etienne will arrange the shipping of orders via one of our preferred carriers. Shipping charges are estimated during order placement and will be included on the final balance due notice. Shipping calculations and estimates depend on the delivery address, chosen delivery method (air, sea or road freight, if applicable) and service required (DAP, white glove, own carrier).

SHIPPING
Our shipping approach is tailored to accommodate the diverse nature of our products, ensuring that each order receives the appropriate attention and consideration. We understand that different items may require unique shipping considerations.

Inquiry purchases: this category pertains to transactions initiated after an online enquiry or email communication. Shipping costs for these items are influenced by factors such as item specifications, origin, destination, preferred shipping method (road, sea, air freight), and chosen service level (standard, express, white glove, or customer’s own freight carrier).

Due to the unique nature of these purchases, our approach is personalized to provide you with the most accurate and fitting shipping estimate. We will carefully assess your requirements and provide a shipping cost tailored to your specific needs.

Shipping options may vary based on delivery address, order timing, and item availability. When processing your order, we present available shipping services, costs, and estimated delivery dates. Please note that deliveries occur exclusively on working days.

SHIPPING SERVICES
We offer three shipping services for your convenience:

(1) Standard shipping: Shipping charges are calculated via email, based on package size and delivery address. In-stock packages under 20 kg are delivered to your doorstep or the nearest delivery point with reputable carriers such as BE Post, DHL, UPS, DPD, or Fedex. Items shipped via standard delivery typically arrive within 3-7 business days.

(2) Express shipping: For an additional fee we offer express shipping for products in-stock. Orders received by noon CET (Mon-Fri) are scheduled to arrive in 2-3 business days.

(3) Collect-in-store: Opt for in-store pickup at Kattendijkdok Oostkaai 2, 2000 Antwerp during our opening hours. As soon as your goods are ready to be picked up, we will contact you by e-mail, SMS, or telephone.

DELIVERY TIMES
(1) Items in-stock: These goods, available for immediate delivery, are processed within 3 – 7 working days. Orders are not shipped or delivered on weekends or holidays.

(2) Items on backorder: Delays may occur for items on backorder. In such cases, you will be notified if a longer delivery time is anticipated.

(3) Made-to-order: Items subject to specific conditions and production lead times are detailed on the product description page.

(4) Items with delivery times: If you order several items with different delivery times, all items within the same category, goods or made-to-order, will be sent in one shipment once all items have arrived at our warehouse. If you want partial delivery, please get in touch with hello@stvincents.co as additional fees may apply.

Cédric Etienne is committed to diligent order processing, but external events beyond our control may lead to shipping delays. For inquiries, please contact studio@cedriccetienne.com

EXTRAS
(1) Delivery At Place (DAP)  — Our shipping partner will deliver your item curbside, and you must ensure its collection from the front door of your building or home.

(2) White glove  — our shipping partner goes the extra mile by unloading, unpacking, inspecting, and installing the product in the room of your choice.

(3) Own carrier — If you choose to manage your own freight and delivery, please contact us to arrange the specific pick-up and movement details. An administrative fee to move the product from a manufacturer to a terminal for “customer’s own” pick-up will be added to the balance due.  Please note that Cédric Etienne will not be held responsible for a customer’s own or third party freight damage and claim and an administrative fee may be applicable for handling.

LEAD TIMES
After the designated production lead times (please consult the detailed product description page for estimated production lead times), the remaining balance will be invoiced prior to shipment to facilitate the release of items for shipping. Delivery takes place once the full payment is settled, and the delivery timeline is contingent upon the selected delivery method.

DELIVERY SURCHARGES
While we strive to provide accurate pricing, exceptional circumstances may lead to additional charges in cases of significant shipping rate increases (due to factors like fuel costs, demand, war, or pandemics). Additionally, oversized, excessively heavy, or fragile items may necessitate extra delivery support and could incur a surcharge.

OWNERSHIP
Ownership of the product transfers to the customer (owner) upon the freight carrier taking possession of the order for transport. Therefore, responsibility for damage occurring in-transit is the owner’s and all claims for freight damage must be made within 72 hours of receipt.

PRODUCT QUALITY AND IN-TRANSIT DAMAGE REPORTING
Products are inspected by the manufacturer prior to release to ensure that the order is in good condition, complete and ready for shipment.

Upon departure from the point of origin, the carrier assumes the responsibility of conducting a thorough inspection of the products. Any potential damage must be promptly noted on the Bill of Loading (BOL). The carrier’s endorsement on the BOL signifies their acknowledgment and acceptance of responsibility for delivering the products in the condition as received. The inspection of boxed or crated products is primarily focused on the exterior of the packaging. In cases where the cartons or crates exhibit signs of compromise, exceptions should be recorded, and immediate action taken to examine the contents.

PREPARING FOR DELIVERY
It is your responsibility to ensure that all furniture items will fit through the access points such as doorways, stairways, hallways, elevators and around corners into the desired location.

RECEIPT OF PRODUCT
Cédric Etienne recommends engaging a qualified receiving warehouse to receive, inspect, consolidate deliveries and facilitate in-home installation. All crated goods are required to undergo meticulous examination by a certified receiver, typically a receiving warehouse. If necessary, Cédric Etienne will gladly assist in recommending a suitable receiver. The receiving warehouse acts as an agent for the client and assumes the responsibility of identifying any potential damage, as well as aiding the owner in initiating a freight claim in the event of damage. For direct home deliveries, it is advised that a qualified receiving individual is present to accept the products.

A signature on the Bill of Loading (“BOL”) upon receipt of the product confirms that the products are received in good condition unless noted otherwise on the BOL. If, due to quality concerns or damage, you choose to refuse acceptance of the merchandise upon delivery, it is imperative that you promptly contact us. A comprehensive inspection must be conducted within 48 hours of delivery, and any claims for freight damage must be filed within 72 hours.

INSPECTION OF PRODUCT
We ask that you thoroughly inspect your piece(s) upon arrival. Should any visible damage to the packaging be observed or if the packaging tape appears compromised, it is crucial to immediately report these issues to the shipping company and simultaneously record them on the Bill of Loading (BOL). This guideline applies whether the delivery is made to your home or when you personally retrieve the package from a designated representative. Furthermore, we encourage a comprehensive assessment of the piece(s) upon arrival. In cases where the delivered goods show signs of damage, we kindly request you to document the extent of the damage through detailed photographs of both the piece(s) and the corresponding crate/box. This photographic documentation should encompass the condition before and after removing the piece from the crate/box. We recommend that you retain the original packaging until you are entirely satisfied with the condition of the delivery.

In situations where an immediate inspection is not feasible upon receiving the shipment, we advise indicating on the BOL that any concealed damage to boxed or crated products will be the responsibility of either the carrier or the manufacturer. This responsibility will be ascertained subsequent to a thorough inspection of the products.

Please be aware that claims concerning damaged goods need to be submitted within 72 hours of the product’s arrival. This timeframe is essential for the resolution of damage claims, preservation of packaging materials, and submission of all pertinent photographic evidence. Additionally, a copy of the Bill of Lading (BOL) and all relevant photographic material should be dispatched to hello@stvincents.co.

For shipments not arranged through Cédric Etienne, the goods are sold under Ex Works terms. Consequently, in such instances, any necessary arrangements for claims should be coordinated directly with your designated freight forwarder. For further details or clarifications, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at studio@cedricetienne.com.

IMPORT DUTIES & TAXES
Depending on the item/s, prices displayed on our website include either the standard 21% Belgian VAT or a reduced rate of 6%, and exclude shipping costs. Within the EU, all import taxes and duties are already incorporated into the final purchase price.

A VAT exemption is applicable under the following circumstances:

(1) Businesses with a valid EU VAT Number: If you are an organization or business with a valid EU VAT number, the VAT amount will be deducted from the purchase price.

(2) Shipments Outside of the EU (Delivered Duty Unpaid – DDU): For shipments outside of the EU, they will be processed as Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU). This implies that no VAT will be levied on these shipments. However, please take into account that local import duties, taxes, and custom clearance fees may be imposed by the customs authority of the destination country.

It’s important to note that Cédric Etienne holds no responsibility for VAT, fees, or taxes on orders to countries outside the EU, and we cannot predict or control these charges. As the customer/recipient, you are responsible for all local import duties and taxes imposed by customs. Ensuring the prompt payment of these charges is essential to ensure the timely release of your order. Failure to do so may result in delays or complications with your order.

Please be aware that any additional costs related to storage or shipping resulting from a lack of customs clearance or failure to pay duties and taxes are not covered by Cédric Etienne. To avoid unforeseen expenses, we strongly recommend reaching out to your local customs office to obtain accurate information about applicable rules and fees.

TRACKING
When goods leave our warehouse, an email will be sent with a tracking number. Information can also be sent to you from our shipping partner with tracking information. Items will be shipped either from our main warehouse located in Belgium or directly from the country of origin/production of the items.

FAILED DELIVERY AND UNCOLLECTED PACKAGES
Cédric Etienne is not responsible for uncollected packages. Instances wherein parcels, letters, pallets, or larger parcels are subject to return, due to circumstances such as the customer/recipient’s failure to claim the delivery, unavailability at the provided contact number for notification, refusal to accept the delivery, or provision of erroneous name/address/contact details, the customer shall incur the cost associated with return shipping and administrative charges.

STORAGE FEES
Cédric Etienne is able to store your order free of charge for no greater than 30 days. After 30 days, your order is subject to a EUR 25 per day charge for extended storage. This must be paid prior to delivery.

TRANSPORT DAMAGES / MISSING GOODS
If you discover upon receipt of your package that the shipment is visibly damaged in transit, this must be reported immediately to the shipping company. This applies both to home delivery and when you pick up the package from a representative. If, during unpacking, you discover the contents are damaged or that goods are missing. In that case, you as a customer are obliged to contact Cédric Etienne within 72 hours.
Contact our customer service here to complain about the shipment with pictures of the damaged goods. For more details please visit our Returns Policy.

3/ RETURNS

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Cédric Etienne’s Returns Policy. This policy outlines the terms and conditions that apply to the return of goods ordered by professionals and / or consumers at stvincents.co or, unless stated otherwise, through alternative distribution and marketing channels (e.g., in store, fairs etc.).

This policy is an integral part of our General Terms & Conditions (GTCS). We advise you to carefully review our GTCS before placing an order. When you place an order with us you accept the application of these Terms & Conditions.

CHANGES
Cédric Etienn reserves the right to periodically revise and update its GTCS from time to time. The date above indicates the most recent revision of this agreement. It is your responsibility to stay informed of any changes. These modifications will not apply to orders placed before the publication of the revised GTCS. If you have inquiries or require clarification about the following information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

RETURNS
If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, please contact us to return or exchange your item(s) within 14 days of receipt / delivery date, with proof of purchase. The merchandise must be as in-new condition and in the original packaging as when you received it, this means unused and undamaged.

Note that returns or exchanges are not accepted for custom / made-to-order items unless they are defective or damaged. Installed, discounted or on-sale items are considered final and cannot be returned or exchanged. Other exclusions may apply. For further information please contact us.

Cédric Etienne is not responsible for any damage in the return shipment, therefore, send you return well packaged.

Upon return, your item will be inspected and exchanges, credits or refunds will be issued for the purchase price. Any taxes charged will be refunded in accordance with applicable laws. Delivery fees are non-refundable with the exception of manufacturer defects or transit damage.

Please contact us for a return shipping label and return form. When you use your right to return the cost for return shipping is paid by the customer. Return shipping is adjusted in connection with the refund of your money.

DAMAGED ITEMS
We refund or replace items if they are defective or damaged. If you discover upon receipt of your package that the shipment is visibly damaged in transit, this must be reported immediately to the shipping company. This applies both to home delivery and when you pick up the package from a representative. We ask that you thoroughly inspect your piece(s) upon arrival. If the goods arrived damaged, we ask that you document the damage with detailed photos of the piece(s) and crate/box, both before and after removing the piece from the crate/box. Please note that damaged goods need to be reported within 24 hours upon arrival.

If the shipment is not booked via Cédric Etienne, the goods are sold Ex Works. In this case, you will need to contact your freight forwarder to handle the claim. For further information, please email us at studio@cedricetienne.com

We are primarily replacing goods with a new one, or if the item is out of stock we will reimburse you for the product. Damaged or defective products will be replaced within the normal production time period required to reorder and manufacture the same product.

WARRANTY
Our furniture is compliant for residential use only. Any certificates for commercial use may be issued upon request for specific items.

If you discover a production defect, the items can be returned against a valid receipt or payment basis. Product damaged as a result of wear and tear is not considered defective. If possible, we offer to repair or replace defective products. If it is impossible to repair or the product is no longer available, you are entitled to either a full or partial refund, depending on the case. Contact us to start a complaint. Complaints must be made when the product’s defects are discovered. Keep in mind that you may need to show that the error is not due to use or carelessness. The complaint period is two years from the time you received the product.