Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Is what I see what I get?
No. Every item listed in our eBay store is described as "Original / Used" or "New Made / Brand New". Original items are sometimes referred to as Military Antiques, Military Collectibles, or simply Militaria. New Made items are sometimes referred to as Replicas or Reproductions. The condition of New Made items is always the same; while the condition and even sometimes features of Original Items vary greatly.
We display multiple images and write detailed descriptions of the products we sell in order to provide the customer with as much information as possible so you know what to expect when you open the box. However, unlike single auction listings most of our original antique items are not one-of-a-kind. Meaning the images you are viewing will not be the exact item that you will receive when you place your order. The images will, however, represent a typical example. In fact, the photos of products displayed on eBay are never the very best examples of what we have. We make a concerted effort to photograph average examples of each product. This way, you can expect to receive an item that is at lest as good as the one photographed, unless specified otherwise. The only time you will get the exact item photographed is when an item is listed as "one only" or "one-of-a-kind".
However, because so much of what we sell is original antique merchandise there will be some differences between anything photographed and what you receive. Differences are generally minor and can include; markings, dates, size, color, overall condition and more. In an effort to avoid returns, please help us determine what you want by describing your preferences through a comment when placing your order. We always make our very best effort to satisfy your needs, but there are no guarantees, which is why we have a 7 business day return policy, please review our eBay return policy on item listings and listed inside our eBay Store.
How much does it cost to ship?
Please see our shipping page within the IMA eBay Store or see specific shipping rates that are always listed on item listings. In general, ground shipping is FREE within the 48 states and international shipping is calculated based on weight and destination.
ATTENTION INTERNATIONAL BUYERS- ALL IMPORT DUTIES (such as VAT), IMPORT TAXES, DELIVERY SURCHARGES, BROKERAGE FESS, AND ANY OTHER IMPORT RELATED CHARGE IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BUYER. We will not accept returns for refused deliveries based on import duty.
Where do you ship?
Please see the shipping information on specific item listings to see where we ship. In general, we ship worldwide.
May I cancel my Order?
No. Due to multiple warehouses, the pace of eBay fulfillment requirements, and high order volume we are unable to honor any order cancellation requests. You are free to return the order for a refund (minus all shipping fees, please note items purchased with "free shipping" that the initial outbound shipping cost will be deducted from your return refund).
Is it in Stock?
If an item is listed in the IMA eBay Store it is in stock and available for purchase. We keep real-time inventory so you can be assured that the items you want are in stock and ready to ship. Out of stock items are automatically removed from eBay and therefore will not be located in a store search. Be advised that some larger or more specialized items sometimes take a few days to prepare and therefore may not be available for immediate shipment. Very occasionally mistakes happen and due to human error an item might be listed as available even when it is not. Events like this very rarely occur, but we thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.
Where do you find all this stuff?
Everywhere. For the past 40 years we have been traveling the world purchasing some of the most rare Military Antiques on the market. IMA representatives have been to over 50 countries on 6 continents and done deals from $100 to $7,000,000 in size. We have over 60,000 square feet of warehouse space; and much of that material has been in our possession for decades. We are the largest Military Antiques and Military Collectibles company in the world.
Is this stuff real?
Yes. Every item listed inside our eBay Store is listed as "Original/Used" or "New Made/New". Original items are sometimes referred to as Military Antiques, Military Collectibles, or simply Militaria. New Made items are sometimes referred to as Replicas or Reproductions. Original items are what most people consider "real". If we list something as an "original item" then it absolutely is we would never knowingly mislead our customers. Ever.
Can anyone buy this stuff?
Yes. However there are some restrictions. You must be 18 years of age or older to use our eBay Store. Some items have legal restrictions depending on shipping destination. To learn more please see our legal information below.
Is what IMA sells Legal?
Yes. International Military Antiques, Inc observes all Federal, State and Local laws and all eBay & PayPal policies. Everything for sale within the IMA eBay Store is completely legal to own, trade, transport and sell within the United States of America. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the buyer to be in compliance of laws that apply to their specific location. By purchasing from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our products.
Can you tell me what my collection is worth?
No. We don't offer an appraisal service.
Will you buy my collection or can I trade with you?
No. But very rarely yes. Generally, we purchase from Governments, other importers, or major private collectors. However, there are times that we make exceptions. Only if you have something of high value or desirability and you are interested in selling your collection or a particular item please send us an email and be sure to include the following:
Take many clear digital images of your item(s) including detailed images of markings, notable features, and condition.
Describe your item(s) including condition, where/when/how you acquired it, and the original purchase price (if applicable).
Tell us the absolute minimum amount you will take for it. We won't engage endless negotiations. If your requested price is too high we just won't respond. If it is an item that we already sell we usually will not purchase it, unless something about yours is unique or special.
Send descriptions and images to: customerservice@ima-usa.com please write; "Purchase my Collection" in the email subject line. Be sure to include a contact phone number.
If we are interested we will respond within 2 weeks. If you do not get a response then we are not interested.
Please do not call us to follow up.