buying frames from overseas
 

anyone have any luck with buying frames from other countries off of ebay. i was checking out some colnago frames and most of them are from other countries. just wondering if anyones done this and how did it work out. thanks

I've done it, and though it was quite a nuisance I guess I would do it again. But you really need to trust the seller. Paypal gives some comfort. It only makes sense if the frame is really quite cheap, because shipping will be expensive.

Two of the best frame purchases I've made in the last year were a 60's Cinelli SC from Poland and a 60's Patelli Special from Hungry. Both were packed better than anything I've bought from a US seller/collector, were priced fairly, and the shipping was not outrageous. Of course both seller's had excellent feedback and photos, and the frames were priced in US dollars, so not a big risk. It would depend on the dealer though, just like buying domestically.

I am overseas and sell frames internationally.

Like many other sellers, my feedback is 100% possitive and I sell ~ a frame or two a month. If the sellers you are buying from do this often, and have 100% possitive feedback, there is nothing to worry about. Its their jobs.

During 2010 and 2011, I have purchased frames from Italy and France through eBay with no hitches, and reasonable shipping cost. Success and good packing depends on the seller of course.

Purchased one from the Netherlands. Shipped to the US for $60 dollars via the Dutch postal service. It was a flawless transaction. I've had far more trouble with people on this continent.

i buy a lot of parts from overseas sellers. i've found all of them to be good in terms of pricing and communication, but shipping times can be lengthy. as long as you're prepared to wait an extra 2-3 weeks, buying overseas is fine.

I have bought frames from England, Germany and Poland and have had no problems. Two years ago the deals from Poland were outstanding but lately they seem to be inline with the rest of the world market.

I have bought frames or full bicycles from Germany, England, France, the Netherlands and several from Italy. No worries.

Another positive vote for overseas buying. Packed well and no hassles from two different Dutch vendors.

JW

We routinely purchase from sources in Bayern, Austria, and Bolzano, Italy.

Doesn't hurt that my spouse's family members often pick up and ship the items.

Biggest thing I ever bought from an overseas (From France) seller are rims. I was very nervous about them getting to me un damaged, but it all worked out great as the seller packaged them appropriately. I guess I can try for frames next. It all comes down to the seller's rating. if it is 100% and you notice that the person had been selling a lot of frames, it should be safe enough to buy from them and expect no hassles or damage when they ship it to you. Anything below a 99% rating, you might want to stay away from.

Chombi

I have bought two frames from overseas and both experiences were great.

one was an ebay auction (shipping was about $200) and since I was traveling the seller was nice enough to delay shipping for a week.

the second was from member here who ships alot and there was no issues at all.

OH I almost forgot about the the Cornelo!! that makes three and Frans was AWSOME!!! I would buy another frame from him in a second!!!

as the others here said it just a matter of trust between you and the seller. so you could just as easily have issues with a domestic deal

with the number of frames, bikes and parts, I have had shipped I consider myself very lucky that the only issue I ever had was a frame was smaller than advertised. the bike was awsome and resold easily though. I can be too trusting at times but the only time I ever got burned was on a expensive Luxman receiver/tuner/amplifier. most bike guys are pretty honest

I have never bought a frame set from overseas but a few components have been sent my way. A NOS Shimano 600 eight speed hub set, $30.00 from China and it took less than two weeks to arrive. I was truly impressed.

thanks for all the replys. time to start shopping..thanks