I bypassed the Fujifilm X100VI shortage in the Netherlands by using this US shopping shortcut
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Why I am still chasing the Fujifilm X100VI in 2026
It is March 2026 and the Fujifilm X100VI remains the most difficult piece of tech to find on Dutch shelves. I have checked every major retailer from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, and the story is always the same: "Out of stock." The viral demand for this camera has not slowed down, and local markups on the second-hand market are frankly insulting. I decided I was done waiting for local restocks that never happen.
I shifted my focus to US retailers like B&H Photo, Adorama, and Amazon. While these stores also face high demand, their restock frequency is significantly better than what we see in Europe. I realized that if I wanted this camera before my summer travels, I had to look across the Atlantic and use a reliable freight forwarder to bridge the gap.
My strategy for buying from US retailers
I started my journey by setting up a tax-free us address. This is a crucial step because it allows me to shop at US stores without paying state sales tax, which can save me up to 10% right off the bat. If you are new to this, I recommend looking at the how it works page to understand how your packages move from the warehouse to your door in the Netherlands.
I keep tabs on B&H and Adorama daily. Since I have a US address provided by comGateway, I can checkout just like a local. However, I quickly learned that buying high-demand electronics from the Netherlands using a Dutch credit card can lead to immediate order cancellations.
I use BuyForMe to skip the credit card drama
The biggest hurdle I faced wasn't the shipping, but the checkout process. Many major US stores like Nike, Sephora, and even tech giants often block international credit cards. Even worse, some stores automatically decline orders if they see a known forwarder's address associated with a foreign billing address. I saw my first attempt at an X100VI cancelled within minutes because my payment method didn't match the region.
I found the solution in the BuyForMe service. This is the ultimate lazy method for international shopping. Instead of me struggling with payment gateways, I tell the comGateway team what I want to buy. They use a domestic US credit card to purchase the item on my behalf.
This proxy shopping method is the safest way to guarantee an order doesn't get cancelled. It removes the stress of dealing with picky US billing systems. They handle the transaction, and I simply wait for the notification that my camera has arrived at my suite. If you are worried about the specifics of this process, you can find more details in the FAQ section.
My costs for shipping to the Netherlands
I am often asked if shipping a camera across the world is expensive. I used the shipping calculator to get an estimate before I committed. For a compact camera like the Fujifilm X100VI, the shipping fees are surprisingly manageable, especially when compared to the inflated prices local resellers are asking for in 2026.
I also make sure to check the latest prohibited items list. While cameras are perfectly fine to ship, I always double-check if there are any new shipping rules regarding high-capacity lithium batteries or specific accessories that might be restricted. It only takes a minute and prevents my package from being held up at the warehouse.
Handling Dutch taxes with zero effort
When the package reaches the Netherlands, I know I have to deal with the Douane (Customs). For electronics over €150, you will typically pay the standard 21% BTW (VAT) plus a small clearance fee from the courier. I prefer the "lazy method" here as well; I choose express shipping through comGateway partners like DHL or FedEx. They handle the customs clearance paperwork for me and send me a simple link to pay the import fees online. I don't have to fill out a single form myself.
My final checklist for a stress-free delivery
I have refined my process to ensure I spend as little time as possible on logistics. If you are trying to snag a Fujifilm X100VI from the Netherlands, follow my checklist:
- Get your US address from comGateway immediately.
- Use the BuyForMe service to avoid the dreaded "Order Cancelled" email from US retailers.
- Check the shipping calculator so you aren't surprised by the final bill.
- Ensure your items aren't on the restricted goods list.
- Wait for the courier to text you the VAT payment link, pay it, and wait for your doorbell to ring.
My Fujifilm X100VI arrived in perfect condition, and I didn't have to deal with a single local waitlist. If you are tired of the stock situation in Europe, shopping the US market is the only logical move left in 2026.
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