I want to play with an RFID reader. I found a nice one from Parallax here. So, how much does this cost? Well, the Parallax web site says $39.99. Shipping and tax are all extras, but lets look at base price.
So a UK supplier quotes £37.50 for the unit. Using today’s FX conversion rate, which will vary wildly, the US$ equivalent is US$54.83. That represents a markup of almost 40% compared to the US listed price. Now taxes and delivery included, it looks like I’d be around the same percentage better off if I order in the US and pick it up next time i am there, than get it her in the UK.
*sigh*