Order from Amazon USA - you have to be aware of that
You can also order from Germany at Amazon USA. At first glance, some products are much cheaper there than on amazon.de. But when ordering abroad, you have to take some special features into account.
1. Import regulations and delivery restrictions
- If you want to import goods from a non-EU country, import and customs regulations apply. Basically, shipments with a value of less than 22 euros are tax-free, up to 150 euros you pay at least no customs taxes. You can find the exact provisions and information on the website of the German customs authorities. As a rule, you (ie not the seller) are responsible for paying these taxes and duties.
- But Amazon also has restrictions. For example, amazon.com does not deliver hardware or software to addresses outside the United States, nor can you order cell phones or consumer electronics there. Other products with delivery restrictions are listed on this page. The corresponding note that an item cannot be delivered to Germany will be displayed when you order.
- You should also be prepared for a delivery time of one to three weeks. And: amazon.com is responsible for customer service - for example in terms of return or complaints - not the German branch.
2. Country codes for movies and games
Many DVDs and games for consoles are secured by country code. DVDs, games and consoles bought in Europe have the country code 2, while on American devices you will find the code 1. A game or DVD only ever works with the compatible player. So you can only watch American films on American players (or devices without code lock).
3. American power grid
Most electrical devices in Europe require a voltage of 230V / 50Hz, since almost the entire European network uses this voltage. In America, however, 120V / 60Hz and other plugs are used. So if you want to operate an American device in Europe, you need a voltage converter in addition to a plug adapter so that your device is not damaged.
4. Payment methods and currency
On Amazon USA, payments are made in US dollars. If you want to know how much euros an order is converted, you can use the Yahoo currency converter, for example. Also note that in most cases you can only pay by credit card. Wire transfers are only accepted by a few US merchants.
If you don't want to pay customs duty, check out Amazon England. Thanks to EU guidelines, annoying additional costs are eliminated, at least until the EU leaves the EU. We will show you in another article how to order from amazon.co.uk and what you need to consider.