Buying o'seas - currency fluctuation and delays

[Paul W]

I ordered a Lightning P38 (factory direct) when our (Aussie) dollar was over
78 cents against the USD.
It's an expensive bike by any standards.

I've been told "the order is being processed" - but of course, as I wait
(wondering why I'm waiting...), our dollar is dropping. At the moment, it's
only a $50 or so difference but I can see that if it falls too far I'll be
either very annoyed or cancelling the order!

I wonder why companies don't realise the importance of prompt action and
equally prompt communication?

Paul W

 

[Tom Sherman]

Paul W wrote:

> I ordered a Lightning P38 (factory direct) when our (Aussie) dollar was over
> 78 cents against the USD.
> It's an expensive bike by any standards.
>
> I've been told "the order is being processed" - but of course, as I wait
> (wondering why I'm waiting...), our dollar is dropping. At the moment, it's
> only a $50 or so difference but I can see that if it falls too far I'll be
> either very annoyed or cancelling the order!
>
> I wonder why companies don't realise the importance of prompt action and
> equally prompt communication?

Ask LeQuan Brummer [1].

[1] < http://www.lightningbikes.com/sp38leq.jpg>

--
Tom Sherman - Rock Island County Illinois
Tetrahedral carbon lattices are not forever.

 

[Paul W]

Yes - I've read the newsgroups - if Lightning monitor these Groups, this was
my way of giving them a little heads up. If they don't monitor the Groups
they should - the Internet is Heaven-Sent for finding out what your
customers think.

I know customers can be irritating and people en-masse an annoying bunch -
but if you're in the game of selling, it's your JOB to tolerate them

It beats me - email is so quick and easy - what's so hard in keeping the
client informed?

It's terribly tempting to buy a TIG welder and some CroMo.... But not yet
THAT tempting....

Paul W

 

[Zach]

Generally a manufacturer won't charge the credit card until they are
ready to ship the bike. On occassion I've had Greenspeed pre-charge my
credit card for the full amount at the time the order is placed to lock
in the cost against the falling US$.

When making a long distance purchase it is important to order from a
company that has excellent customer service and responds to e-mails
promptly. Also consider what follow up service will be like in the
event of a warranty issue.

Zach Kaplan