Import ripoffs

If you think/believe that you can get it cheaper from O/S and are willing to take the chance/option that it is a dud or you may get ripped off, then use the Internet.

I do on a regular basis and mostly come out way in front.

Never been ripped off, however had one experience where I didn't read the fine print and had an absolute nightmare paying for the sucker.

Never ever use (buy from ) anyone who only takes Western Union money orders from O/S customers.

Eg of a really successful purchase in mid 2005

40M 10mm Amsteel plasma rope USA AUD$375 Aust $750

Aluminium Hawse for above rope profiled machine to take ARB offset.

USA AUD$46 Aust $90 straight machined (offset not available)

US$50 delivery (air)

Arrived two days later on front door step.

Just makes you wonder sometimes about Australian suppliers and their multi layered Distribution rip off machine.

Ok..... how about Moto Guzzi Starter Motor retail from Germany or the US about $300. Ring Moto Guzzi here and get a quote for $1145.
Yes we get taken for a ride at times.

Reiner

I was quoted $270ish for that rechargeable maglite. I wasn't interested in getting one but the shop guy did say it was a fantastic price.

I have a friend who frequents the USA and always comes back with a suitcase full of cheap stuff. I remember my Dad doing the same thing in the 80s so I guess things haven't changed. I just use the internet and have it posted. Cheaper than airfares LOL

I know may people here will know more than I about big business but I do have one price break down for you from a product we used to import. It retailed in the US for $995. We sold it here for $1995. We bought at $850 AUD inc import costs, we wholesaled so the W/S price was $1250. There was $450 in it for us and $745 in it for the retailer. The factory sold the unit from taiwan for around $350. So the US company who own the factory has to make a cut, then normally they would W/S within the US. When we wanted to bring it here we became the second middle man so an extra cut is created, then add to that import costs and it adds us pretty fast. Also in case your thinking there is a bit of meat there, remember we also had to warrantly the product and the wholesaler needs to foot the bill for replacement parts and the retailer (in our case) had to pay for labour. I think this situation only really happens when the company is located in Australia.

I think some of the price differences ares worse than listed. When I stay with my brother in New York, the liquor shop around the corner has Jim Beam for $7.50 with a free hip flask - how much are we being ripped here - aaarrrggghhhh Bourbon

How do you Guys get on about import duty on your purchases?
I thought only gifts and second hand machinery were exempt from it ?

I've also wondered myself - in principle, I like to provide support for Oz retail outlets where possible - what I can't work out is why product pricing in the US and other foreign markets (which has an inbuilt component in the pricing to allow the merchant to make a reasonable profit), PLUS the freight for an individual item (which does not include discounting for bulk purchase etc.,), is so much different (less!)from the prices available in Oz.

The additional markups which appear when gear gets to Oz seem to be without justification.

Think I'm with you on this one Pneumatic !

Also had a positive US experience. Wanted to buy a joiner cable to connect 2 Honda 20i's - AUD 200+ if and when they stock them. These are a simple cable witjh banana plugs. Located a willing seller in the US and got it posted for US$50.

Sure it is a risk and people do get caught but I have found it to be a good way of getting a good price.

Kind regards