Why is Ebay so expensive ?

[stargazer]

I am now awaiting a new Garrett pro-pointer priced at £85 from a UK dealer. On Ebay the price of these pointers is almost exclusively £89.95 for new ones.

So why are things overcharged on Ebay ?

[Jetset Willy]

I am now awaiting a new Garrett pro-pointer priced at £85 from a UK dealer. On Ebay the price of these pointers is almost exclusively £89.95 for new ones.

So why are things overcharged on Ebay ?

I think its called 'Chancing your arm'

[Adam_Hall]

They probably include the postage costs, although it does say free delivery, the customer always pays for it somehow. Cheapest on eBay at the moment seems to be this one, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Garrett-Pro-point ... 1e5e3d3159 at 87.99

Though it is worth mentioning, it depends on the seller, eBay or shop, as some have an agreement to sell them at the RRP, where as others may not or just do not abide. Regton sell at 89.95 where as Detecnicks sell at 84.99. So it can differ at the specialists to be fair.

[Blackadder43]

Also take into account that Ebay charge them for selling stuff and then paypal charge them again for taking the money......

[furriner]

Basically, because it can be. Like a shop that may charge what it believes it can get away with after overheads, ebay frequently operates in the same manner. So, for example, you may have a load of new things to sell that are popular. You can sell them cheap and flog the lot. Great they've been sold. However, ebay charges you a fair whack to advertise and also takes a percentage of the final costs. So, you need to ensure overheads are cleared. And, if something is popular then you may get away with either hidden costs (e.g., free postage usually means the item is slightly higher priced) or selling the item at a more inflated price: supply and demand.

The best bargains on ebay, especially on a 'buy it now' sale are the sellers that offer a 'best offer' option. I've saved a fair whack on many an item.

[rustynail]

The prices for these pinpointers, in my own opinion, comes under the heading of a monopoly. It's because no matter who you turn to for a price, it's never competitive... and that in law is a monopoly.

[stargazer]

The prices for these pinpointers, in my own opinion, comes under the heading of a monopoly. It's because no matter who you turn to for a price, it's never competitive... and that in law is a monopoly.

Monopolies are also illegal. Contravenes free market economics.

[rustynail]

I agree, but try convincing me of this when my next lot of energy bills comes through my letterbox. There's no real competition in these providers either.

[stargazer]

I agree, but try convincing me of this when my next lot of energy bills comes through my letterbox. There's no real competition in these providers either.

Ah well, these are cartels ! They are supposedly illegal too.