Last updated: July 10, 2026
When you order custom anime merch, the timeline is easiest to understand in three stages: file check, production, and shipping. This guide explains what happens after checkout and how to plan around each stage.
Quick Answer
After you place an order, we check the submitted file for obvious production issues, then move the item into production. Production usually takes 2-4 business days. Shipping usually takes 7-10 business days after production is complete.
Production time and shipping time are separate, so creators ordering for a launch, convention, gift, or group order should plan for both.
Timeline at a Glance
| Stage | Typical timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Order and artwork submission | Before production | You choose product options and provide artwork or project details. |
| File check | Before production | We check for obvious issues such as low apparent resolution, unclear files, or missing labels. |
| Production | Usually 2-4 business days | Your custom item is printed, finished, and checked. |
| Shipping | Usually 7-10 business days after production | The finished order ships to the delivery address. |
1. Submit Clear Artwork and Order Details
Start by choosing the product type, size, material, quantity, and available options. For dakimakura covers, prepare artwork at 300 DPI in RGB color mode. PNG is preferred, and high-quality JPG files can also be accepted.
If your design has separate sides or variants, label files clearly. For example, use front and back labels for two-sided dakimakura artwork.
Still planning a creator merch drop? Our Creator & Artist Services page explains how artists, VTubers, and creators can start with custom anime merch.
2. Basic File Check Before Production
Before production, submitted files can be checked for obvious production issues. This may include low apparent resolution, unclear side labels, missing files, or artwork placed too close to important edges.
This check is not a full design review, redraw, retouching service, or color-proofing process. Please review your artwork carefully before submitting the final file.
For dakimakura artwork, read our 300 DPI artwork guide and bleed and safe zone guide.
3. Production and Shipping
Once order details and artwork are ready, custom production usually takes 2-4 business days. The exact work depends on the product: dakimakura covers involve fabric printing and sewing, while acrylic products involve printing, cutting, finishing, and hardware or base assembly when applicable.
After production is complete, shipping usually takes 7-10 business days. Tracking information is provided when available.
Worldwide shipping is available, and orders can be shipped in plain, unbranded, discreet packaging.
Taxes, Import Duties, and Returns
Taxes and import duties are included in the order price. Customers should not need to pay extra import-duty charges on delivery.
Because custom products are made to order, returns are not supported for non-quality issues such as change of mind, personal preference, or selecting the wrong size or material.
If an order arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect, contact us with your order number and clear photos so the issue can be reviewed and an appropriate solution arranged.
Planning Formula for Creator Drops
If you are preparing a VTuber drop, Artist Alley stock, or small-batch merch release, do not plan around production time alone. A safer formula is:
Artwork preparation + file check + 2-4 business days production + 7-10 business days shipping + extra buffer
Quick Checklist Before You Order
- Choose the correct product, size, material, and quantity.
- Prepare high-quality artwork before checkout.
- Use 300 DPI RGB artwork for dakimakura covers.
- Use PNG preferred or high-quality JPG when applicable.
- Label front and back artwork clearly for two-sided designs.
- Remember that production and shipping are separate stages.
- Check whether a pillow insert is sold separately if ordering a dakimakura cover.
Related Pages
- Custom Anime Merch
- Creator & Artist Services
- Custom Dakimakura Product Page
- How to Order a Custom Dakimakura
Summary
Custom anime merch orders move through file check, production, and shipping. Production usually takes 2-4 business days, and shipping usually takes 7-10 business days after production is complete. Plan both stages when ordering for creator launches, events, gifts, or group orders.