Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping
What Shipping Methods Are Available?
Trainspotters Ltd provides free Mainland UK shipping on all standard orders, via its network of third-party courier and delivery suppliers.
For non-standard orders, where quantities, type, location or local restrictions may affect this free standard delivery, we are happy to arrange the shipping of items to anywhere in the UK or the world. We can pack and post smaller items ourselves and arrange quotes from third parties for the packing and transportation of larger or particularly fragile items. If you would like to obtain a delivery quote for a non-standard order, please simply contact The Company to request a quotation.
An example of this would be the Communist Tube Light, which requires a specific crate and exclusive handling.
The Goods may be delivered in one or more instalments and some of the Goods may be delivered directly from our suppliers. Any times and dates given for dispatch of the Goods (or the length of time that the Goods will take to be delivered) are only estimates. If we are unable to meet any stated dispatch or delivery dates or times, we will inform you as to the progress of your order. If the delay is substantial or if the Goods are not available at all for dispatch, we will offer you the option both to cancel the order and refund any payment(s) you have made or allow you to choose alternative Goods.
Do You Ship Internationally?
Trainspotters will happily arrange the shipping of items to anywhere in the UK or the world.
All orders are packed by us. Some smaller items (such as small spare parts) may be posted through the Royal Mail service, all other orders are via couriers or delivery specialists. These third party couriers range from DPD to TNT and DHL for medium size shipments by air freight. Larger or particularly fragile items that are crated or palletised may be sent by ground freight through our preferred third party transportation suppliers. If you would like to obtain a delivery quote for any non-Mainland UK shipment or non-standard order, simply contact us to request a quotation.
Note on Customs Clearance: For all non-Mainland UK shipping, Trainspotters will instruct a DAP (Delivered At Place) service. The means the shipping price you pay will cover everything up to the point of customs clearance in your country. Buying from Trainspotters from outside of Mainland UK is considered IMPORTING and therefore you are the IMPORTER, as such you are likely to be charged local duties and taxes for importing at the point of customs clearance, in accordance with your country’s local laws and protocols.
How Long Will It Take To Get My Package?
Typically for consignments within Mainland UK, we use a next day service. However we would recommend allowing 2-3 working days to allow for unforeseen service disruptions.
If you have a specific delivery/ arrival date requirement, please communicate this at your point of enquiry/ purchase and we will endeavour to either match your required delivery date or provide a lead-time estimate.
Typically consignments destined for outside Mainland UK, for an economy air freight service which can take 5-7 working days transit time. For a ground freight service (used for some palletised or crated shipments) please allow 5-10 working days transit time. Subsequent customs clearance time can affect the final arrival date and is out of our control.
Payment
What Payment Methods Are Accepted?
For all web-based online orders, our e-commerce system is set up to accept all major credit card payments and PayPal. You will automatically be sent a receipt for your online purchase and should receive acknowledgment directly from the Trainspotters office within 72 hours.
For all invoiced orders, Trainspotters use a paperless accounting system to generate quotes and orders, therefore you will receive your paperwork via email. Payment links will be provided which allow you to make payments securely using any major credit card or PayPal.
Is Buying On-Line Safe?
As with all online purchasing there is an element of risk and we strongly advise customers to ensure they follow all the usual online safety and security advice. Please contact your bank should you have any security concerns.
We always recommend that our customers follow the direct payment links contained within our invoices to make their payments, rather than processing online bank transfers. Payments made via our payment links and through our website are secure and instant.
Orders & Returns
How do I place an Order?
You can order directly through this website by clicking on the individual product item, or please contact us
How Can I Cancel Or Change My Order?
To amend an order already placed please contact us immediately. All efforts will be made to adjust your order, however if work is already underway or your order has been dispatched, please refer to our Returns & Refunds policy and our Terms & Conditions of trade.
Do I need an account to place an order?
You do not require an account to order from Trainspotters.
You can very simply and easily place an online order via our website or please contact us with your requirements and we will happily guide you through your buying options
How Do I Track My Order?
When you place an order with Trainspotters we will pass on the shipping details you provide to us and in most cases you will be contacted directly by the courier via text or email with tracking information. If you have any questions or concerns relating to your consignment, or you do not hear from the shipping company, please contact us
How Can I Return a Product?
To amend an order already placed please contact us immediately. All efforts will be made to adjust your order, however if work is already underway or your order has been dispatched, please refer to our Returns & Refunds policy and our Terms & Conditions of trade.