Dishonest, Bait and switch tactics.
Written: May 09 '08
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My experience involves four attempts to order a Canon Xsi (body only) from Camera Addict. I was attracted by the low advertised price for a US version of the camera and free ground shipping for orders over $100. This camera's list price is $799 on Amazon and all other reputable retailers (internet or otherwise).
The first time I ordered from their web site, because it indicated the item was in stock. Four days later I received an e-mail saying that they were back-ordered. I used the link in the e-mail to cancel my order.
The second contact was a couple of weeks later, I called to verify that the item was indeed in stock. The person who answered said that it was in stock and the price was indeed $627 as advertised. However, the fast talking salesman ( I had to ask him to stop and repeat himself several times) attracted my attention to the fact that the camera only comes with a "20 minute" battery good for only 10-20 pictures. This sounded like bulls**t to me and I said so but he continued to insist that this was so, and that I clearly had never bought a DSLR before and this is the way all of them are sold. He offered me a "4 hour" battery for $129 (insane). That bought the price to $849. I was perplexed by this price ($627 + $129 = $756)so he remided me that 2 day shipping is $49 dollars and insurance is $49 dollars or so. While on the phone, I went to Amazon and showed him that their price was $816 with 2-day shipping, so why should I buy from him at higher price. He had no answer and so I ended the 20 minute conversation.
I waited a couple of hours and called again and talked to a different salescritter, he also started very friendly by acknowledging the price and availability, but immediately brought up the fact this was not a US version and that the US version is $725, and told me the battery story. I was determined to see what they would send me when for $627, but when I declined the numerous offers for shipping insurance or 2day service or batteries or US version of the camera, he simply hung up on me. Niceeee......
The fourth attempt was very similar to the first three except I actually placed the order on the net and waited to see what would happen. I received an e-mail several hours later asking me to call to confirm the order, which I did guessing what would happen..... Not US version (all lit, menus in japanese and plugs would not fit), battery story again, shipping, MANDATORY insurance, etc. Price? $800. After negotiation $750. This guy was a lot more rude (ie 'I don't have time for this. I have 5 other people on hold, do you want it as this price or not?) Would not allow me to buy the non US version.
In other words: BAIT AND SWITCH.
BTW, if you are on any electronics and camera shop on the net, and you see an Brooklyn or NYC address, BEWARE. They all use the same tactics. Very rarely can one actually get a decent deal from them.
Recommended:
No
What product did you purchase or try to purchase? Canon xSi
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