I've flicked through this thread, probably missed some salient bits, like kittenshark's web address, but the overall theme seems to be lack of 'in your face' disclosure by retailers.
The term 'Caveat emptor' comes to mind, 'let the buyer beware'. Now I may be a bit old fashioned here, but I believe that 'due diligence', as a buyer, is not only your responsibility, but also plain old common sense.
I sometimes buy from overseas, but only after I've checked the exchange rate, the freight cost, and whether the item attracts GST. Most websites have a link for checking the freight cost to your location.
As a general rule I will pay the higher local cost for an item that has a motor, or a PCB in it, for peace of mind, and return freight costs, that only a local warranty gives.
If possible I will buy from a "B&M' store, although they are being decimated by the buying power of the online competitors.
I'm in the throes of purchasing a new HEQ5 Pro mount. I shopped around for prices then phoned my local retailer, Survey and Instrument Specialist in Newcastle, told them what I wanted and disclosed that I'd looked at prices online. Without asking, they matched the best online price and got my order.
For me, win, win ,win! I've injected some money into the local economy, will be dealing 'face to face', and if I have problems I'm not faced with exorbitant return costs.
Dealing locally doesn't have to be rocket science. Give it a try, you may be pleasantly surprised.
Oh, and as I live in a small town about 160k's from Sydney, most of my purchases are online, sight unseen, as I don't have the luxury of being able to drop into the local retailer, pick their brains, and then chase the best price online.
At least give the local sellers a go.
