AkaTako has two shipping locations - one in Berlin, Germany, and one in Colorado, USA. After you enter your shipping address during checkout the website will determine which shipping location is closest to you AND check inventory for both locations. The best location will be clearly displayed above the available shipping options "Shipping from AkaTako's [USA/Germany] Location:"
If you are in USA and the item is in stock in USA, the order will ship from USA with domestic services = NO TAX OR FEE. Please look for "Shipping from AkaTako's USA Location" above the shipping methods.
If the item is only in stock in Germany you can choose to ship directly from AkaTako Berlin to you in USA. The import tax/fee doesn't seem to be applied consistently (total under $100 USD, books are exempt, etc.) so there is a chance to be charged before delivery. If you want to definitely avoid any import taxes or customs fees you can also choose either of the "SLOW BOAT" delivery options. Your order is shipped to AkaTako's USA location in a big box around the 15th of each month. Then AkaTako USA will ship it directly after it arrives. More info on "slow boat" shipping.