Buying Electronics from USA etc - implications?

Zascar

I really want to a piece of music equipment, but I simply cannot find in Ireland or the UK - apaprantly it is totally out of stock in Europe and none is expected for about a month, but it could be a lot more, but I really want it now! I recon it will cost me about €600 from the UK, or about €660 if I buy it in a shop in Ireland.

So, I'm toying with the idea of buying it from the US. I have found it here for $558, which is €407 - plus delievery, not sure what that will be, perhaps €35. However, what import duty/taxes will I have to pay? How do I calculate it? Will I end up saving a decent about of money to make it worthwhile?

There are other things I need to think about. Different Power Supply for example. Also, If anything goes wrong, do I have to send it back to the US for repair/exchange?

I can have one in a week or so if I order from America, but I might be left waiting 6 weeks or more if I wait for an Irish retailler to get it in - I've checked with a few and they have been 'waiting for delievery' for a long time now...

What do you think? What would you do?

Thanks

Boston

You're liable for import dutty on the value of the good, shipping costs and insurance costs. You're also liable for 21% Vat. You may or may not have to pay those charges depending on customs. Power wise, make sure what ever you buy is rated for 210 ~ 220 volts as for repairs and sending stuff back, depends on guarantee.

Zascar

Thanks. How much are the duties etc? How do I calculate?

Soundman

You more than likely will get stung for custom duty. I have no idea how much it will be. I think it can be up to 21%. Thomann have it coming in in a few weeks or you could give these guys a call. Based in North Lotts in Dublin, just off the quays.

Music Technology
ph: 8730305
email: info@musictechnology.ie

Boston

http://www.revenue.ie/index.htm?/leaflets/pn1179.htm

The amount of duty you pay depends largely on how the item is labeled. Theres different rates for different groupings, its very ridiculous.

Soundman

Boston wrote:

http://www.revenue.ie/index.htm?/leaflets/pn1179.htm

The amount of duty you pay depends largely on how the item is labeled. Theres different rates for different groupings, its very ridiculous.

Not to mention that most of the customs employees don't know what groups most items should be classed under. Bought a few mics before and they tried to charge 17% on them. I thought it ridiculous and made a call to someone I know who works there. Turns out I should only be charged 3-4%. Madness.