Sample calculation
OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro are available in China at a price of 200 Euros. But are you really bargaining when importing mobile phones from the Far East? Netzwelt tells you.
OnePlus 8 Pro: This is new
OnePlus launched OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro this week. Unsurprisingly, the Chinese manufacturer has significantly increased the price of its new top smartphone. Smartphone prices are 699 euros [OnePlus 8] and 899 euros [OnePlus 8 Pro], which is 140 euros more expensive than its predecessor. However, in China, prices have dropped significantly to 3,999 yuan and 5,399 yuan, respectively. After the conversion, you can buy OnePlus 8 Pro for only 705 euros, and you get OnePlus 8 from 522 euros. The price is related to the basic model with 8 GB of working memory and 128 GB of device memory.
Compared to German prices, Chinese mobile phones are nearly 200 euros cheaper. Bargainers will now legally ask themselves if it is not worth importing equipment from China through an online store. We have completed the plan for you!
No customs declaration fee, but import business tax
When importing equipment from abroad, the term "customs" always plays a decisive role. Generally, imports of smartphones are not subject to customs duties, but 19% import sales tax is levied. If you buy OnePlus 8, it is about 100 euros; while buying OnePlus 8 Pro, it is about 139 euros. Please note that the import sales tax calculation includes not only the value of the goods, but also transportati on costs. In our sample calculations, we assume free shipping. If you have to pay for transportation, the tax is higher.
OnePlus 8 Pro in the picture
Picture 1/8
OnePlus 8 Pro no longer has a pop-up camera, but instead houses the front camera in a hole punch.
[Source: Netzwelt]
The savings from imports have been compressed by the import business tax. Then, OnePlus 8 is about 77 Euros and OnePlus 8 Pro is about 55 Euros. Of course, you can still bargain. But is there any risk in importing Chinese phones?
Different operating systems, different frequencies
No, because in China, OnePlus uses Hydrogen OS on a different Android interface than the rest of the world. This does not require the Google application. You must manually install these or flash European firmware. Both require professional knowledge and are not without risks. Some online retailers will take this step for you, but usually pay for it. For example, we found that the price of OnePlus 8 starts at 607 euros, and the price of OnePlus 8 Pro starts at 797 euros. If you add import sales tax here, you will end up paying more than Germany.
The next trap is supported mobile radio frequencies. The Chinese version supports 5G frequencies different from the German version. There are also deviations in the supported LTE frequencies. Sometimes you ca n’t use your phone, or you ca n’t fully use the phone service provider ’s network.
in conclusion
Finally, importing OnePlus 8 [Pro] from China brings many risks. Most of the savings are swallowed up by import sales tax. Therefore, it is recommended not to import OnePlus 8 [Pro]. In another article, we will introduce you to the best offer for OnePlus 8 Pro, and tell you where you can buy your phone at a cheaper price.
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