Buying from Axminster Tools (UK)

[WesP]

It was this Forum ( many thanks guys!) where I've found link to Axminster Tool Centre (UK), searching online for Bessay toggle clamps. I've found them in Axminster cheaper than anywhere in Australia. With postage from UK and rather unfavourable AU$ to Pound ratio I'm still better off than buying them locally. Just received very well packed parcel from them yesterday, 10 (calendar not working) days after making the payment. In fact the parcel has been sent on the very same day I paid for the clamps: STC-HH70.
In MHO overall Axminster service is outstanding. Very competitive prices, they don't charge VAT Aussie buyers, excellent communication; they answer emails within couple of hours. Still no reply from Lee Valley Tools after 12 (sic!) days of enquireing about the same clamps.
I have no connections with Axminster whatsoever. Just happy customer from Oz.
Cheers, Wes

[Vann]

I've bought a few bits and bobs from the UK, but I've not used Axminster because I found their shipping to be more expensive than their UK based competitors. But that was for small items. Not paying 19% VAT is nice .

Lee Valley have a reputation for very good, very quick responses with shipping quotes for orders. I've had responses from them within 12 hours, even on a Sunday (their time). I wonder what went wrong in this case?

Cheers, Vann.