Don't camera importers pay shipping, VAT, etc?

[FiascoBurnett]

I see a certain digital camera is available in the US for $899, i.e. R13 900.
Local camera stores are pricing it at R12 400 - R14 300.
How is this possible?

 

[mattrudlles]

I see a certain digital camera is available in the US for $899, i.e. R13 900.
Local camera stores are pricing it at R12 400 - R14 300.
How is this possible?

Stock price. The greater the quantity purchased, the lower the individual units price. Go to china mall and ask for a specific item of clothing, then ask for stock price, it will be a good 20% lower, but you have to buy 5 pieces of that item of clothing in the same pattern and colour.

 

[Pineapple Smurf]

buy in bulk and get bigger discounts is how they do it

 

[rodga]

You can't compare those prices because stores don't pay retail price for their stock.

 

[SauRoNZA]

I see a certain digital camera is available in the US for $899, i.e. R13 900.
Local camera stores are pricing it at R12 400 - R14 300.
How is this possible?

Cost prices.
Not sourced from US
Etc.

 

[bwana]

I see a certain digital camera is available in the US for $899, i.e. R13 900.

What camera? Is the local site reputable?

 

[garp]

They buy at wholesale prices and also the proper customs tariffs are applied not the stupid flat rate with vat for consumer imports.