importing toys....sorry tools

[johnnyb]

hi everyone,
can anyone tell me how i can import tools from the states. what the likely pitfalls are and how i can avoid them. maxtools seem to provide prices to ship and adaptors(110 to 240) what other cost are involved. how long does it take? i am looking at several small items and also a dewalt 735 thicknesser. nice, sturdy looking item.

 

[Waka]

There has been a lot of debate regarding power tols from the US, the main one being the frequency difference between the US & UK. This added with the need to buy transformers or possibly run a 110v circuit in the WS and the cost of shipping, customs etc, I would think you are better buying over here becasue you may not make the savings you anticipate.

Also what happens if something goes wrong, will the gaurentee still be valid etc.

Now if you were talking about hand tools then I would say that there are savings to be made as a few members will testify, myself included.

My advice would be to think very carefully before going down the US power tool buying slope, like a lot of things in life, not all is what it seems.

Hope this helps

 

[martlewis]

Be careful buying out of the country, some good deals to be had but warranty is an issue. You will be buying under distance selling laws. Manufacturers warranties are only legally binding in the country of purchase, some will cover overseas but make sure they are offering 12 months. (eg, buy from Dell in Ireland, only legally obliged to offer you a 90 day warranty).

...My other job is in retail management

 

[johnnyb]

it seems power tools/machines are out of the question. whatabout small items such as zero clearance inserts etc(bits and bobs)

 

[DaveL]

whatabout small items such as zero clearance inserts

I would suggest you make your own, I have used offcuts of ply, plastic chopping boards and finally bought some of the slippy plastic stuff from Axminster when it was on sale.
I use carpet tape to hold the original one on the new blank, cut roughly to size with hand/scroll/band saw depending on size and then use a flush trim bit in the router table. For small ones stick a block on to allow a safe distance between your hands and the fast moving sharp bits, you need all of your appendages still attached at the end of the job. :roll:

 

[wrightclan]

it seems power tools/machines are out of the question. whatabout small items such as zero clearance inserts etc(bits and bobs)

I wouldn't quite say it's out of the question. Of course, warranty/service issues are something to consider, but another thing to consider is that a pro grade power tool should easily outlast any warranty (not always, but usually). I bought a makita 2 base router set for the same price as diy grade routers over here (having previously destroyed many diy grade routers.)

I also have a thicknesser from there and a drum sander (given to me by my Dad when he upgraded to a wide belt sander).

I should say that I don't think too much about warranty or service. That's also why I buy used British machinery and service them myself. That may not be your way of thinking, but if you buy quality tools/machinery and you're reasonably handy and you're willing to go out of your way to get replacement parts (or indeed make replacement parts or have them made) then it's worth considering. If on the other hand, you want to be able to hand it over to someone else to take care of all that, then be prepared to pay a premium price for good quality tools and qood quality service (not always available even at a premium price). Just my 2p worth.

Brad

 

[mpooley]

I'm just now considering buying a dewalt framing nailer from the states.
No electric - no problem i think?
I agree about warranty - unless you get a real lemon i spose :shock:
At roughly half price the savings are huge but i've got no idea about postage costs and import duty?
also nice to know a reliable toolshop in states to order from??

Thanks

Mike

 

[Scrit]

International Tool Corporation

Carraige will also be subject to import duty and VAT

Scrit