Quote:
Originally Posted by mattybucks
The issue is when a shop advertises that a part is in stock but you end up waiting 2-3 weeks for it as it's on back order.
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You didn't shop at Microtech then - they had online stock levels so you knew at the point of order what to expect. Plus they were on of the few online RC shops to conform to distance sellings regs, by only charging you for items despatched from stock.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mattybucks
Also price is a big factor, if an associated part is $5 then it instantly gets marked as £5 even when the converstion rate was 2/1
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Big difference between USA price and UK/EURO price is import duty and VAT. They don't have VAT in the USA, some states have sales taxes but nothing like Eurpean rates of 15 - 20%. Governments charge VAT, so you can't really blame the shop. If your unhappy with import duty and VAT then write to Mr Osbourne!
If you are buying from the USA / HK then you should be paying those... but many international retailers send their packages out rated at $10 to avoid those charges - fraud. Also your not going to get any warranty or postal insurance on down rated goods. (its cheaper for you, but in the same way, buying a car stereo of a man in the pub is cheaper than going to your local motor factors).
I do buy stuff from HK and occasionally the US - but for goods that just aren't readily available here ( i too drive Tamiya). Yes the prices are cheaper, but when you get hit for taxes it works out the same!
I got a parcel of spare parts from HK rated at $35 (£23), I got charged £6.50 Vat and duty + £13.50 handling charges... suddenly $35 becomes £43 , not to mention the exchange rate charge on the credit card and the fuel cost of driving 20miles to depot to pay and collect.