buying from the USA

[Bulletdodger]

I've been browsing a number of US paintball shops online, and seen some pretty good bargains. My only concern is the international shipping/customs & excise bit.

It would be good to hear from anyone who has bought their gear from the US, for some insight into any pitfalls, and whether or not it's worth doing.

[Tazz]

I have bought some stuff in from the states, and have found it to be OK. Have only had to pay import duty on 1 item so far (think I have been lucky). Someone else here will be able to tell you the ££ limit, there was a thread that I can't remember.
The only thing that I surgest is to find out the postage first, then work the overall cost, but I don't feel I have been ripped off.
The advantage that I have found in bringing items in is that you can get some stuff that you just can't get here, and they seam to have it months ahead of us.
I am guessing you already know this but, the air systems are no good for the UK. The regulations are different & UK sites won't fill them (DOT 'v' HSE).

[Samurai Jack]

Depends on what you are buying and where from the customs bit is 17.5% VAT then 3% import Tax on goods over a value of about £30 but dont qoute me on that figure. Some stores will mark goods as gifts some won't. Some wil use the US postal service some insist on using UPS (the most expensive courier in the world). Remember if you mark it as a gift with a low value and it goes astray you end up loosing out big time.

If its a marker your after then yes you can get some good deals however when it comes to waranty you may find yourself on a sticky wickett as support for alot of the lower end markers is not available in the UK. Plus you always take the chance of it not working out of the box and the supplier saying send it back for a replacement after incurring more shipping charges there goes your saving.

When it comes to CO2 bottles and AIR bottles, US standards are DOT and the UK standards are HSE as it stands neither recognise each other and unless you are a foriegner ie not a uk citizen it is illeagal to use a DOT bottle in the UK. You will NOT be allowd to use one at any site in the UK.

Its a choice you have to make for yourself weigh up all the pros and cons.

[Samurai Jack]

looks like you beat me to it Mr TAZ:D

knew i shouldnt have type so much....

[Bulletdodger]

Thanks for the info chaps.

How about buying stuff from people on Ebay who are based in the US? Any idea if you get dinged on VAT by customs? Just wondered how private sales are classified...:rolleyes:

[Munk3h]

Speak to paul collier on the p* forums! I think hes bought off ebay a couple of times!

[Bogus]

It is not illegal to use or own a DOT bottle in the Uk. It is however illegal to test or get them filled by a company.

If you own your own dive tank then you can use a DOT bottle anywhere you like to your hearts content.