Understanding the Price, Warranty, and Delivery Differences of the Hubitat Elevation C-8 PRO Hub Between the USA and the EU
When considering purchasing a Hubitat Elevation C-8 PRO hub, customers in the EU might initially perceive buying directly from the manufacturer's US store (hubitat.com) as a cheaper option. However, this assumption often overlooks critical factors such as VAT, import duties, delivery costs, and warranty terms. Here's a detailed comparison to help EU customers make an informed decision.
: When purchasing from the US, customers must pay VAT and potential import duties upon delivery, which are already included in the price of European resellers.
: While the US price appears lower ($179.95 vs €200), after adding shipping, VAT, and import duties, buying from the EU is actually cheaper (approximately €210 vs €248)
: US purchases come with only a 90-day warranty, while EU purchases include a full 24-month warranty in compliance with EU consumer laws
: EU purchases ship from Poland with delivery in 2-7 working days, avoiding customs delays and additional fees that US shipments incur
Here's a breakdown:
The Hubitat Elevation C-8 PRO hub is priced at $180 on hubitat.com. For EU customers, shipping costs are typically $30.00, making the total $210 before taxes.
VAT is not included in this price. When importing into the EU, VAT is applied to both the product price and shipping cost combined. For example:
Product price: $180
Shipping cost: $30.00
Combined cost: $210
VAT (e.g., 23% in Poland): USD
Total cost: USD (approximately €248).
Additionally, some countries may charge small import duties, further increasing the total cost. VAT and other costs will be collected by a courier before delivering you purchase.
The same hub is available on hubitat-shop.eu, an authorized EU reseller, for €200, inclusive of VAT.
Delivery within the EU typically costs around €10, making the total purchase price approximately €210.
This price includes all taxes and avoids any import-related delays or additional charges.
One of the most significant differences between buying from hubitat.com and hubitat-shop.eu is the warranty:
: Offers only a 90-day warranty for hubs purchased directly from their website or Amazon. Customers can extend this warranty by subscribing to "Hub Protect," which involves an additional ongoing cost.
: Offers a 24-month warranty, in compliance with EU consumer protection laws. This gives EU customers significantly longer protection against hardware defects without needing to pay for an extended warranty plan.
Hubs purchased from hubitat.com are shipped from the USA, which can result in longer delivery times (depending on customs processing) and higher shipping fees ($30 vs €10) for EU customers.
Hubs purchased from hubitat-shop.eu are shipped within the EU (from Poland), with delivery typically taking 2–7 working days, ensuring faster service and avoiding customs delays.
At first glance, buying directly from hubitat.com may seem more affordable due to its lower base price of $180 compared to €200 on hubitat-shop.eu. However, after factoring in VAT, shipping costs, and potential import duties, the total cost of purchasing from the US often exceeds that of buying locally within the EU:
| Factor | Hubitat.com (USA) | Hubitat-Shop.eu (EU) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $180 (~€173) | €200 |
| Shipping | $30 (~€28) | €10 |
| VAT | $48 (~€46) | Included |
| Total Cost | ~$258 (~€248) | ~€210 |
| Warranty | 90 days | 24 months |
| Delivery Time | May take longer (customs) | 2–7 days |
While the base price on hubitat.com appears lower, additional costs such as VAT and higher shipping fees make it more expensive than purchasing locally.
Buying from hubitat-shop.eu offers better value with a 24-month warranty, faster delivery, and no hidden fees or customs delays.
For peace of mind and compliance with local consumer laws, purchasing through an authorized EU reseller is often the smarter choice.
By understanding these differences, EU customers can avoid unexpected costs or complications when purchasing their Hubitat Elevation C-8 PRO hub and enjoy better long-term support and warranty coverage.
