FAQ
TL;DR: On Allegro, price gaps often come from 23% VAT vs VAT‑margin, distribution source, or pawn/commission stock; "Large stores issue 23% VAT invoices." Use invoice type and origin to spot risk. [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Allegro shoppers compare Note 9 or similar smartphone listings and avoid blocked or unwarranted devices.
Quick Facts
- 23% VAT invoices signal full retail; VAT‑margin indicates commission/second‑hand sourcing. [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
- Plus and T‑Mobile can block IMEI if the original buyer stops paying installments. [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
- Pawnshop collateral values run about 30–60% of market price, enabling deep discounts but higher risk. [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
- Example Note 9 price spread seen: 3,079–3,799 PLN across Allegro offers in this thread. [Elektroda, music, post #17720164]
- Prefer reputable sellers with showrooms (e.g., x‑kom) to reduce courier‑damage risk. [Elektroda, freebsd, post #17720812]
Why do new Galaxy Note 9 prices on Allegro vary so much?
Prices diverge because of tax and sourcing. Big retailers add 23% VAT and sell Polish‑distribution stock. Commission and second‑hand sellers use VAT‑margin, often reselling operator‑sourced or foreign devices. Pawnshops liquidate collateral cheaply, pushing prices down but risk up. “Large stores issue 23% VAT invoices.” [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
What does “VAT‑margin” mean on a phone listing?
VAT‑margin signals secondary circulation. The seller resells a device previously owned, so you won’t get a standard VAT invoice. Expect atypical provenance and check documents carefully. Some buyers avoid such listings or insist on personal collection to inspect the phone. [Elektroda, karolark, post #17720193]
Are foreign or post‑exhibition Note 9 units okay to buy on Allegro?
Yes, but read the listing closely. Cheaper “new” units may be a foreign version from private import, a post‑exhibition sample, or opened once to check. The listing description should disclose this. If unclear, message the seller before buying. “There are many possibilities.” [Elektroda, Michal_WWL, post #17720183]
Could a “new” phone actually be refurbished?
It happens. Some sellers present refurbished devices as new. Ask directly about refurbishment, and proceed only if the seller confirms factory‑sealed stock. [Elektroda, leonov, post #17720196]
What paperwork should I demand to secure warranty service?
Ask the seller to include the receipt or the original purchase invoice. Without one of these, warranty claims can be refused or complicated. Keep the document with your order confirmation. [Elektroda, tino2003, post #17720388]
Can a phone be blocked later even if I have an invoice?
Yes. If the device came from an operator installment plan and the original buyer stops paying, the operator can block it later. This risk applies even when you hold a salon invoice. As warned, “the operator will block the phone.” [Elektroda, leonov, post #17720452]
Do Orange or Play block phones for unpaid installments?
Thread experience indicates T‑Mobile and Plus do. Orange and Play were not using such blocks at the time reported. Always verify current practices before buying. [Elektroda, blahfff, post #17720533]
Is paying more for a seller like x‑kom worth it?
Often yes. x‑kom is an established seller with physical showrooms. Buying in‑store avoids courier damage risk and can simplify support. If there’s a nearby showroom, consider local pickup. [Elektroda, freebsd, post #17720812]
How do I quickly vet an Allegro listing to avoid traps?
- Check invoice type: 23% VAT (retail, Polish distribution) versus VAT‑margin (secondary market).
- Confirm origin: Polish distribution versus operator or foreign source; ask what the warranty is based on.
- Challenge unrealistic prices: pawn/commission stock comes from collateral valued at 30–60%, so risk rises with discount.
[Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
Is local pickup better than courier delivery?
Local pickup reduces damage risk and eases complaints. One buyer chose stores within about 200 km to allow in‑person support. Bulk‑importing stores charged slightly more than China sellers, but offered more reliable logistics. [Elektroda, freebsd, post #17720271]
What’s the catch with ultra‑cheap listings?
Deep discounts often trace to commission or pawn sources. Pawnshops loan at roughly 30–60% of market value, so resales appear cheap but carry more risk. Devices tied to operator contracts can also face later blocking if bills go unpaid. [Elektroda, pepecool, post #17723032]
If a listing looks legit, should I still worry?
If the description is clear and the seller is established, proceeding can be reasonable. A forum member assessed two Note 9 listings and said, “both offer seems fair and I would buy it.” [Elektroda, tino2003, post #17720343]
Is personal collection safer than buying online?
Many buyers prefer personal collection to inspect the phone and documents on the spot. One participant wouldn’t buy online unless pickup was in person. [Elektroda, karolark, post #17720193]
Should I post my candidate Allegro links for feedback?
Yes. Sharing specific links lets others spot risks in the description or seller profile. “Provide specific links and we’ll try to suggest something.” [Elektroda, tino2003, post #17720209]
sold as new 
The price is slightly higher than from China, and yet more reliable, safer transport and easier to file a complaint.
