Why are dealers so scared to sell product out of


state. I was calling a few dealers out of state looking for better pricing on a product. Another reason I'm trying to buy out of state is to save the high sales tax in Southern California. A couple of dealers I talked to refused to sell product out of state.They said they have an agreement with the distributor not to sell out of state. It's amazing how distributors have such a hold on the retailer. High-end audio Isn't exactly setting the world on fire yet they have all these restrictions for the retailer. I can buy a rolex watch out of state or even a ferrari. Why can't I buy audio equipment out of state if I choose to? Yes, I know there are mail order companies that carry lines they can sell across state lines. The problem is these firms sell at list price and I'm not going to pay list for anything including audio equipment.
taters
Phaelon,

Extremely good post. Your contrast of what a good dealer should provide, as opposed to the type service you get from a not so good dealer, is near perfect. Couldn't have said it better myself.

The only thing I would add is in reference to this in your post: "On the other hand, I have walked into shops that had exclusive territorial rights to an entire product line, but only carried a few products from that line."

Its almost certain that the good dealer that you talk about in your 2nd paragraph has exclusive territorial rights as well. He just knows how to run his business properly and does not use his customers just because he can.
Hi Zd542,
Thank you for the kind words. Yes, you’re right about my dealer friend; he was also a reasonable man. If a customer walked in knowing what he wanted and didn’t require much in the way of service, he would usually be offered a discounted price - at least for big ticket items.
Good luck trying to set others prices. If a store dosen't stock an item, they have none of their own money into it.
Taters,

some dealers/retailers have signed a disclosure agreement w/ the distributor(s) in which they deal there gear.

You will find other dealers/retailers that will sell across the nation. It will take some time & research to find those guys.

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