Ordering a Backbone One Gen 2 from the US to the Netherlands saves money despite the shipping fees

March 28, 2026

The popularity of the Backbone One Gen 2 in 2026

Mobile gaming hardware has reached a peak in 2026, and the Backbone One (USB-C Gen 2 - PlayStation Edition) remains the most sought-after controller for iPhone and Android users. The Gen 2 revision fixed the most common complaint of the original hardware: it now fits phones with thick protective cases. With the PlayStation branding, it remains the standard for Remote Play users.

Ordering a Backbone One Gen 2 from the US to the Netherlands saves money despite the shipping fees
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The demand in the Netherlands has spiked because local stock often lags behind the latest hardware revisions found in the US. While Dutch stores might still carry older Gen 1 stock, the US market is already moving through exclusive bundles that include carrying cases and digital credits, often unavailable in European retail chains.

Price gaps between the US and the Eurozone

There is a persistent price discrepancy between the North American and European markets. In 2026, the Backbone One Gen 2 typically retails for $99.99 in the US. In contrast, Dutch retailers often list the same unit for €120 or more. When you factor in the current exchange rate, buying directly from a US store often results in a 20-30% saving on the base product price.

For shoppers who find that US retailers do not accept Dutch credit cards, the proxy shopping service is an effective solution. This allows you to have a local agent purchase the item on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on US-only flash sales.

Shipping Estimates and Logistics Analysis

Before you arrange your shipment, it is important to understand the physical profile of the Backbone One. This helps in calculating the total cost when using an international shipping service.

Metric Estimate
Box Weight Approx. 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs)
Box Dimensions Small (Approx. 23 x 13 x 6 cm)
Volumetric Warning Low risk. The packaging is compact and efficient.
Battery Check No internal lithium battery. It is powered by the phone.

Because the Backbone One does not contain a lithium battery, it is not flagged under restricted shipping rules. This simplifies the process and avoids the additional surcharges often associated with shipping electronics that contain power cells. You can use a shipping calculator to get a precise quote based on these dimensions.

Managing import tax and VAT in the Netherlands

A common misconception in the Netherlands is that import tax and VAT (BTW) make US shopping more expensive than buying locally. While it is true that you must account for the 21% BTW on items over a certain value, the lower US base price often absorbs this cost entirely.

The Dutch Customs (Belastingdienst) will calculate the tax based on the value of the goods and the shipping cost. Even after adding these fees, the total often remains below the €130-€140 total price found in many Dutch specialty tech shops. Using a freight forwarder allows you to consolidate multiple purchases into one box, which significantly reduces the impact of the per-package handling fees charged by local carriers like PostNL.

Ordering from US stores using a freight forwarder

The process of getting your hardware is straightforward if you follow a step-by-step guide. First, you need a tax-free US address to avoid paying US state sales tax, which can save you an additional 7-10% at the point of purchase. Once your Backbone One arrives at the warehouse, you can choose your preferred courier.

For fast delivery to the Netherlands, FedEx international shipping or DHL international shipping are the most reliable options, usually reaching major cities like Rotterdam or Utrecht within 3 to 5 business days. By managing the process through a dedicated comGateway account, you maintain control over the documentation, which helps in clearing Dutch customs without unexpected delays.

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