so in ds you can find all parts from every set ever produced?
I know I have answered this question from you before in great detail, so this time please
pay attention and
remember.
1) You order parts by number. If you do no know the number you can't order it. This would be the case for most Specials, and sets that do not include any assembly instructions. Playmodb or a set of instructions in your own collection are the best sources for part numbers.
2) In ordering, it is a good idea to put a name or desciption by the number, as sometimes numbers get mis-typed or mixed up. This also help you when your order arrives. I use the Playmodb descriptions unless I think they are too vague.
e.g. 10 x 30 07 6120 Wall, Flat, Plain, Double-Male Connectors
means I wish to order ten of the standard flat plain steck walls.
3) Some parts have had more than one number over the years. I always use the most recent number when ordering for the best chance of the part being in stock.
4) They can't possibly keep everything in stock. Sets released in the last 1-5 years have the best chance of spare parts being in stock, but older parts may be available. You can always try to order them it doesn't hurt. Older than 5 years, it is reasonable for Playmobil to assume the kids are no longer playing with the same sets, but many old parts are so popular or common (e.g. most steck pieces) that they are still stocked.
5) Very recently released sets have a smaller chance of parts beign in stock. The service is
intended to be for replacing lost or broken parts, and it is reasonable to assume that it takes a while for parts to be lost or broken. That said, parts can be in stock immediately or within six months of initial release. You can always try to order them it doesn't hurt.
Strictly speaking DS (Direct Service) is NOT the ordering of spare parts, but the ordering of any set direct from Playmobil. This includes all the add-on sets that are rarely to be found in normal retailers.
The ordering of spare parts (by phone or email) is called the Spare Parts Service. This is supposed to work via each country's website, but when I tried (in the UK) I never once got a response. I eventually got a contact name, phone number and email address for one of the nice ladies in their Basildon offices, and all the spare parts orders I placed over the last three years went through her. I would put my order together, send it via email, and usually the same day get a response with the available parts totalled up for cost includign shipping. I then rang her with my credit card detail, and 2-3 weeks later the order would arrive.
UK orders come direct from Germany in batches, so it is possible to receive, in one postal delivery, two orders placed at different times. It is also possible to have them separated by several weeks if you miss a batch of orders.
I have never orderd any parts in the US, partly because I understand it is almost hopeless. Justindo placed several orders through me while I was still in the UK, because like Bill Blackhurst, he gets a better hit rate this way.
If I were to try an order in the US (which I may in the next few months), I would use this email service@SPAMBLOCKERplaymobilusa.com
Remember to remove the SPAMBLOCKER
