Like all rechargeable batteries, the lithium batteries powering iPod portable media players eventually need to be replaced. The FAQ section of Apple’s online store also advises that iPod batteries should be charged at least once a month, even when the iPod isn’t being used.
So there’s a pretty good chance that iPod owners will eventually be in the market to buy both iPod batteries and an iPod battery charger.
This article analyzes prices for an iPod charging dock that comes with mini-batteries. The full package includes rechargeable mini-batteries, a charging dock, an AC adapter, and a detachable cable. According to Apple store specifications, the Kensington iPod battery charger kit priced below is compatible with the following iPod models:
- iPod (4th and 5th generation)
- iPod classic (80 to 160 gigabytes)
- iPod mini
- iPod nano (3rd to 6th generation)
- iPod touch (1st to 4th generation)
Lowest Prices for iPod Battery Replacement Kit on Apple Store
Canadian consumers looking for iPod battery replacement should start by either visiting their local Apple store or searching online. This enables shoppers to find out about warranties, compatibility issues, and other important product facts in addition to benchmark prices.
On the Canadian online Apple store, the price listed for the tested iPod charging dock with mini-battery pack is C$89.95. Shipping charges are waived.
Apple’s American web store sells the exact same product sells for US$69.95 free of shipping charges. That amount is over 20% lower than the price on the Canadian Apple store.
With Canada’s currency strengthening against the U.S. dollar, there are potentially even more savings for Canadian consumers who import the iPod mini-battery set and charger from the United States. And, outside of a sudden weakening of the Canadian dollar, there are no hidden charges. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) enables Canadians to import products from America and Mexico without paying tariff duties.
Best Price for iPod Battery Charger and Mini-Batteries on Amazon
On Amazon, the lowest prices for the iPod charging dock with mini-battery pack fall below those posted on online Apple stores. Prices below are in Canadian dollars; the U.S. price shown was converted at par. The U.K. price was exchanged using a rate of 1.55 Canadian dollars per British pound. Any applicable shipping rates have been included.
- C$42 from the American Amazon website
- $44 from the U.K. Amazon website
- $84 plus from the Canadian Amazon website.
Importing from the United Kingdom will involve a 7% tariff charge on the proportioned value of the lithium batteries (Harmonized System code 8506.80.90.10) in a package set. The iPod charging dock (HS code 8504.40.90.91) is duty-free when imported from the United Kingdom. But even after adding in that extra 7% for tariff duties, Canadians will pay almost 50% less than what they would shell out for the iPod mini-battery kit bought from the Canadian Amazon website.
Coming in at roughly $42, the best price for iPod battery replacement is found on the U.S. mother website Amazon.com.
Consumers still need to do their homework, looking for the best possible iPod deals online starting with their local Apple stores. There well may be competitive products that meet their specific needs and at much lower prices.
Based on this specific and admittedly limited comparison, Canadian shoppers could save over half of their money by making their iPod mini-battery replacement buys at the U.S. Amazon website.
Sources: This article presents an independent comparison of iPod battery and charger prices using data from international Apple Store and Amazon price listings as of January 12, 2011. Findings from this brief study do not endorse of any of the products mentioned. Rather they are simply part of an illustrative case study showing readers how to shop international websites for superior prices.
Daniel Workman - A senior business and finance writer who also does French translations, notably international trade and insurance materials.
Comments