Quote:
Originally Posted by AnemicOak
Probably not all taxes, etc. and there is probably some of the price that is higher simply because the company knows they can get more, but what about warranty protections that might be required by the government if any that might not be given to customers in the other market (those costs are going to be passed on at least somewhat to the market that requires them)? Some of it might also be retailers charging full retail vs a discounted price as well (at least that's how it is here. a lens price can differ by hundreds depending on the seller)
We have grey market stuff here in the US (lenses, bodies and other items) that are brought in from other markets and can be a lot cheaper, but basically come as-is with little to no warranty protection. Some people are fine with this and will buy that way while others are willing to pay extra for a full US warranty or are fine getting lenses that way, but not a camera body.
Note: Not saying these are for sure factors, just throwing them out as some possibilities for some of the higher pricing.
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In Europe, *manufacturers* aren't even obliged to provide warranty. It's the *seller* that has to offer at least a two year warranty. However, most manufacturers include at least a one year warranty of their own (and thus, sellers try to get away with offering one year as well, because otherwise they'd be at risk themselves for the second year).
Granted, there will be some difference here or there. I could live with, and can understand a €200 price difference because of laws and taxes and such, but €1000? Not in your life. IMHO, that's just the manufacturer trying to get as much money as possible.
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With regard to geoblocking, I said what I said before. If I go looking for a book, and I can't buy it because a publisher/seller thinks I live in the 'wrong country', then I'll find it ... somewhere else.
Even with blu-ray discs it can be a good deal to get them out of the Netherlands (although this has nothing to do with geoblocking). As Game of Thrones is now entering its last season, I've decided to start watching it. New, a season costs €45 in the Netherlands. The cheapest second hand option I was able to find at the moment I purchased S1, was €30. In the Amazon.co.uk market place, I procured it for €10 (8.50 pounds); including shipping.