Very disappointing experience with Aura…
Very disappointing experience with Aura Archival
I contacted Aura Archival before purchasing a pair of Lanvin python heels because I was concerned about the customs and CITES requirements for shipping exotic leather to Germany.
Aura initially told me that these items are shipped within the EU and that shipping to Germany should therefore not be a problem. Since the item was listed as “Extended Shipping”, meaning it would be sourced after purchase, I specifically asked whether this particular pair would still be shipped from within the EU rather than from their UK location.
I was again told that the item would be shipped within an EU country.
After placing my order, I was later informed that the item would take longer because it was being sourced and sent for authentication and quality control.
At that point, I simply asked for clarification as to whether the sourcing and authentication/quality control were taking place within the EU, as previously confirmed, or in the UK.
This was an important question because, with python leather, if the item were to be shipped from the UK into the EU, the appropriate CITES documentation and customs requirements would need to be met.
I wanted to make absolutely sure that I would not face any problems with German customs, including the risk of the item being seized, destroyed, or any fines or legal consequences.
Unfortunately, my specific question was never answered. Instead, my order was simply cancelled without any explanation or further communication.
I find this extremely disappointing and unprofessional. I made every effort to clarify the situation both before and after placing the order, specifically because I wanted to avoid potential customs and CITES issues. I relied on the information I was given and only asked for clarification when the later information about sourcing and quality control made the actual shipping route unclear.
I cannot say for certain why the order was cancelled or where the shoes would ultimately have been sourced from. However, the lack of transparency and communication, followed by a silent cancellation rather than a straightforward answer to a legitimate question, left me extremely disappointed.
For a high-value item involving exotic leather and potentially complex customs requirements, I would expect much clearer, more professional and transparent communication.
Unfortunately, based on my experience, I would not recommend Aura Archival.