A gray market product is a product which is traded in distribution channels which are not official, authorized, or intended by the original manufacturer.  In the case of Tamron products in Europe, Only Tamron Europe is authorized to import Tamron goods into the EU. Tamron Europe is the official hub for the further distribution of Tamron products within Europe. There is an increased risk of quality problems involved with the purchase of these gray goods, and therefore, we are unable to warrant their quality.

Interchangeable lenses are precision optical and mechanical products. Therefore, if handling during transportation or storage is not adequate, defects or malfunctions may occur. As for our products supplied through our regular distribution channel, meticulous care is taken in transportation and storage in order to ensure quality protection. However, in the case of gray-market products, it is more likely that they are handled inadequately during transportation or storage; are exposed to undesirable conditions such as high temperatures, vibration, shock, high humidity, dust, dirt and so on; or that they have been mixed up with used products since they are not under our strict control. We ensure the right handling and storage of our products. In the past it has come to our attention that products were sold with altered serial numbers. In these cases how do you even want to know if the goods are new?    Therefore, we are unable to warrant the quality of gray-market products.

• a detailed invoice including VAT
• a European warranty card

Don´t just compare prices on the internet. Invest some time in investigating about the dealer.   It could be a dealer that is known for trading gray goods. Use a search engine in internet or read up on the matter in a photo forum.

If you have bought a gray import, consider returning it. In Germany you have a 14 day right to return goods ordered on the internet, without even having to mention a reason. Ask for your money back, ideally giving them a deadline right from the start. Please make sure to keep a copy of the invoice and of the airway bill.

• If you buy gray goods from an online dealer who later declares bankruptcy, in the worst case you may have to pay for the repair of your lens. If you bought authorized European goods, you have the manufacturer warranty on your side.
  
  
• Correct handling and transportation of goods, i.e. per air and not per ocean freight- no risk of mildew due to long transport and high humidity.
  
  
• Safeguard of European Jobs
  
  
• If you order outside of the EU from an EU state (i.e. Hong Kong) you must take into account the higher shipping costs and the other payment costs of minimum 25% for customs clearing. Often you have to pay in advance and this is not very advantageous if the goods are lost in transit.