deskthority

Is there a FAQ about group buying (in this forum)? I get the basic idea of getting a discount for "mass" purchases. Also sometimes it appears to be the only way to realize something (like getting keysets produced) - correct me if i am wrong. But some questions I have:)
Are there rules, some mechanics to ensure everyone will be happy?
How often do MO's happen and who organizes them?
Did a group buy ever fail? For what reason?
I want another KBC Poker red MO. How many buyers are needed for this? Are 10 enough? If not, why not?

Most of that really depends on who organizes the group buy. I try to make most buyers happy, but it is not always possible. For example I can not refund missing parcels beyond the DHL refund limit. In the last Poker group buy 3 parcels went missing, two of which eventually turned up again. One which is still missing in action.

Since I pay for the boards once the money is collected, I can not give refunds for a situation like this. However, I can replace or repair broken boards, as VorTex hooks me up with a repair kit when doing a mass order of that size.

To answer your question, the minimal required order at VorTex (guys who make the Poker) is a box of 20. I had to cancel the last second round of the Pokers as there was not enough interest to reach the minimal required number of orders.

If you just want a single one I suggest you to use eBay or PM attarian here on the forum. He is also a European distributor based in China.

thanks for the answer sixty. attarian seems to have stock of what i want!
he asked me about the shipping company i'd like to use and honestly i have no idea. what company do you group buy organizers prefer or have good experience with (from china)?

DHL is awesome for Asia->Germany. Can be as fast as 18 hours!

what about EMS? any experience? are you talking "standard" package or express for thos 18h? is DHL actually pricier than EMS?

EMS is usually much, much slower and you will have a higher chance of having to pay customs fee when importing. DHL is about the same price as EMS from Asia, maybe a few bucks more expensive. However, well worth it.