Equipment Costs

[rdd1952]

I just ordered a python online and in pricing these things, I realized that it is considerably cheaper to buy online even from the same company. I knew there would be some difference but didn't have a clue it would be so much. I saw that petsmart.com had the 50' pythin for $39.99 plus $8.99 shipping. I wanted to get one quick so i went to the store location about 1 mile from where I work. It was $74.95. Naturally, I opted to go back and place my order online.

 

[chkltcow]

Some people have said that PetCo and PetSmart will match their online prices, but I kinda doubt it. Even online it says that prices may not match the stores. I don't know about the Petsmart down on South... but the one in Gastonia is ridiculous for filters. You're better off ordering it online there, PetCo.com, or BigAlsOnline.com. An Aquaclear 500 that sells for about $34 on PetCo and Big Al's is $90 at Petsmart here.

 

[frankycee]

Try this site: http/www.petsandponds.com/securestore/

 

[rdd1952]

I ordered my filters for the 75 gallon today from petsolutions.com. Fluval 304 that Petsmart sells in store for $139.99 and Petco sells for $154.99 were $72.99 online. That's almost getting one for free. I also got heaters and a couple other things. Shippng is flat rate based on total order, only $10.99 for anything over $250.

I checked at Petsmart on Sunday about matching prices but they said they didn't do that. Those prices are good online only.

 

[Lateral Line]

Remember also that the profit on livestock is not great as the costs in holding it is very high. If everyone bought their hardware from online stores, the price of fish would have to rise, or more likely, the local fish shops would close.

 

[cometcattle]

I checked at Petsmart on Sunday about matching prices but they said they didn't do that. Those prices are good online only.

Did you ask the manager? Did you have the print-out of their web-page in hand?

I've done it at 4 different Petsmarts.

They even have an "online price-match" button on their computers.
Here's a receit from about 2 monthes ago:

Petco won't match anything.

BigAl's online will match competitors online prices, as long as the competitor has the item in-stock. You have to call (I think) them with the sites, and prices. You must call BEFORE you place the order, or they won't give you the discount.

 

[rdd1952]

Thanks cometcattle. I didn't ask the manager as I didn't have the online page printed out. I will remember it next time though.

Lateral Line, I'm sure you are right about the profit on live fish. That's why I think Walmart just uses (and abuses) them as lose leaders to get people to buy their tanks and supplies. Kind of hard to make a profit on a $1.49 tetra.

PS: I did ask at the Petsmart near where I work today. If you bring in the printed page from online they will match the price just as cometcattle said.

 

[OohFeeshy]

I'd definately try to see if shops will match competitors. I'd imagine they will, no shop wants you to go to another shop because they don't want to loose a few pounds profit.