shopping in foreign parts - camera lenses

[vicious_sid]

I'm looking to buy either a 70-300mm af-s lens or a 100-300 hsm lens for my nikon d40. I always hear that it's a lot cheaper to buy these items abroad.

can any of you more experienced ab'ers give some advice on what countries to look at and what pitfalls to be aware of

many thanks

[spike3000]

Be aware that any item you order that is sent from outside the EU by a parcel carrier will attract customs charges that can make something cheap become alot more expensive! Theres duty payable on value of goods plus shipping charges, then VAT on that value plus shipping plus duty amount.and then maybe a charge from the carrier for paying it all to customs for you!! Be careful!

[SteveD]

have a read here:

http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPortalWebAp p/channelsPortalWebApp.portal?_nfpb=true&_page Label=pageTravel_ShowContent&propertyType=docu ment&resetCT=true&id=HMCE_CL_001454