[neallewis]

UK warehouse for batteries has always been fine for me, quick order turn around and no errors. About 18 months ago I did a lipo order from China, and it came fine, but with the new postage regs on lipos now, I wouldn't do it again and just stick to UK warehouse for lipo orders. I've done about 10+ orders with them now from UK and China warehouses. Mostly quadcopter stuff, but a few car batteries, 1S and 2S shorty packs all have been fine. Quality and prices have been good, but I've not experienced any order mistakes or faulty gear. I did have some quadcopter LEDs that turned out to be crap, but I'd spent about $2, so no loss.
I did deal with the online chat people once as an order was taking its time. that was 15 mins I'll never get back, but the order did turn up the next morning anyway.

Most of the issues I've heard about (both personal account and on forums) tend to be from less IT savvy online orderers, people who don't read properly or people with odd expectations from the start. I'm not intending to offend here at all, but if you consider yourself as one of the above just go to a regular UK based shop. Also if you are on a tight budget, and can't really afford a hold up or mistake, save yourself the trouble.

I was talking to a chap that I race with about a flight transmitter, he'd has problems ordering it and stock problems, and bad communication with the online chat people. he complained in email to the head office/management team and promptly received an apology and a massive discount on the order which was correctly processed for him by someone who could speak English and had a clue.

I'm waiting for an order myself now from China, but I'd ordered the day before Chinese new year. they said to expect some delays. it has taken a few more days to get the order process emails, but its on its way on the proverbial slow boat, so I'm happy with that. it will turn up soon.

When ordering you need to be aware which warehouse location you are ordering from. keep orders to that same location and don't mix. Also create a site login account, don't try to use a guest account. There seems to be no traceable record of the order if it fails, but the payment does get taken. use PayPal.


if you have any doubts about them or expect a service like you'll get from a decent UK based shop or online shop, don't bother ordering hobbyking, save yourself the stress and deal with someone you can call and bend their ear. if you are happy with what I've said, not too worried if there is a slight issue or delay, order away and you'll be fine.