Prices of razor related stuff in Europe

[Alraz]

I was wondering if the prices of razors, equipment, etc. in Europe would be better than in the USA.Or if there are things that could only be bought there. A friend of mine is going to France and Belgium tomorrow and I could ask him to look for some suff for me. I am starting up so I need a lot of things (I only have my old Filarmonica 13). I apologize in advance for the vagueness of my post but as I said, I am starting up and still do not know all that I should know.

Thank you very much for your help,

Al raz.

[majurey]

That really depends. If you live in Europe already, then prices are probably fair. They are higher in Europe than US, but the problem with ordering from the US is the taxman will often hit you for the transaction. In the UK, for example, I'm supposed to pay 17.5% on all products and services, and on top of that the postal service charges up to £20 for paying the tax for you up front. It's very hit and miss -- sometimes you get stung for tax, other times the goods get through without being detected. A bit of a lottery.

Where are you based?

[English]

Generally, prices in Europe are more than in America and I think you will be wasting your friends time.

It's no different in Europe. You have to hunt out good equipment and often it is easier to have it shipped by a European internet trader anyway.

If you purchase off the internet and pay the small amount for postage, you won't pay the European taxes (18%) and the exporters handle all of this for you. Your friend will have better things to do than try and get a shop to give him the tax back. That's if he can find a shop that will do it in the first place.

He's unlikely to trip over shaving gear, it's hard enough for Europeans to find never mind your mate whose on holiday, trying to enjoy himself.

Unless you want to buy a specific French soap for example, I wouldn't bother wasting your friends time.

Even Belgian coticules are sold in the US at a very fair price. All the risk is taken out of the purchase for you by your US traders.

As a European, I see no advantage for you to buy your shaving products in Europe or waste your friends time.

I hope this helps.

[Alraz]

Thanks for the kind responses. I suppose it depend in what you buy. In my limited experience, there are things that are way less expensive in Europe. In terms of shaving equipment, which I do not know anything about. I will use the advice of the experts.

Thanks,

Al raz.