Buying parts on the web

[Adam Royle]

Hey all!

Just wondered if anyone else has noticed the difference in $$$ when buying part (particuarly genuine outboard parts) online. I've been shying off the dearer stuff for years because I didn't feel comfortable but when I had a couple of things needing so TLC on the faithful yammy recently a mate told me I was crazy not to look on the internet.

I bought a trim tilt motor and relay switch, thermostat (+ gasket and new cover) and water pump kit. Shopping locally, including in town, regional and nationwide, I saved almost 45% compared with the cheapest prices here in good old Oz! That includes postage and insurance to my door! I won't even mention the local quotes!

I try to buy locally as much as I can but but geeezzzz lueeezzz how can you when you see a bill for $500 instead of nearly $1000! Obviously this depends on what you are buying and I have no doubt that I will continue to buy locally for some stuff, but I'd really be interested in hearing from some of you guys?

Both good and bad experiences would be good to hear!

[jamie]

for my crissy pressy serah went into local tackle shop and asked for a witchdoctor teaser and they told her to go on the net because to get it through them it would be $250 off the net it was $80.

[Dan Bowater]

Adam, a contentious topic since most of us feel obligated to support local business. I have made alot of online purchases over the years for some huge savings.
A few of the most striking examples:
- 787cx2 humminbird combo unit $800 over the net, $1600 rrp in Australia (in 2007 anyway).
- Digital camera $900 over the net, $1200 rrp in Aus.
- Badlands hunting backpack $150, $400 rrp in Aus.
- Shimano stradic 5000FI $140, around $250 rrp in Aus.

There have been plenty of others but they are a few of the standouts. At the same time there are always things that I get locally. If the cost is similar I will normally favour getting it locally, but like you said when its a significant percentage 30% or upwards (shipping included) then the difference is a bit too big to ignore. Being in a fairly remote area, getting hard to find items delivered is a bonus too.

[Adam Royle]

Exactly right Dan, I still buy the majority of stuff locally. What I am finding though is that if a local business gives me really good service I tend not to bother looking online. Whereas if it's a business that I feel isn't giving me the service Iexpect I have no problem jumping online. So it isn't always the money, good old fashioned service still goes a long way!

[Dan Bowater]

Yeah I'd have to agree, and the funny thing with that in the past I have recieved better service from some of the ebay transactions. With some I have recieved the item within 5 days inlcuding a thankyou letter plus a small gift. However, this is not always the case (some have never arrived, come late, or packed incorrectly etc). I'd have to say when purchasing gear you may be unfamiliar with using, getting local advice is a big plus.

[Adam Royle]

Again I totally agree Dan, if in doubt buy it in person locally! I spend a long time checking part numbers, descriptions, warranties etc before I buy anything online. I often wait a week or more doing research before I leap in.

Actually, I was thinking a bit more about what makes me want to buy locally today, especially the 'service' reason. It's funny because I don't think it is the up front service I find comforting, although it definitely helps. I honestly think it's the service I receive if something goes wrong. Any Tom, Dick or Harry can sell a product, it's when things start falling apart that the true 'quality' service providers shine. If I can find a retailer who not only sells the products I like but goes the extra yard when I return something that is faulty or breaks, then I seldom question the $$$.