Discover the hidden costs of grey goods
Don’t settle for less
Sometimes Canon products are imported into your region, which were never intended by Canon for sale there. Also known as “grey goods”, they are often sold at lower prices – but the downside is they can cost you a lot more in the long term.
Canon goes to great lengths to ensure each Canon product is carefully localised to the region intended by Canon for its sale and general use. Through careful consideration Canon ensures it has the appropriate hardware, software, manual in relevant languages, accessories (plugs and bags) and warranty for a particular region.
While on the surface grey goods can appear to be a good deal, sellers often artificially localise the grey goods by adding, changing or removing accessories, manuals and warranties themselves – potentially compromising your Canon experience. Some online retailers may claim to be based in your region, but they are not - so it pays to be aware.
Here are just some of the risks, problems and additional costs you could face if you choose to buy grey goods:
You can avoid all of these problems by purchasing products, intended by Canon for your region, from reputable retailers in your region. They are configured specifically for your region and they come with the full support, approved accessories and consumer protections that only Canon can provide – so you can get the full Canon experience and maximum enjoyment from your purchase. Plus you can take advantage of Canon’s cash back deals or other promotions (where & when active) to make great savings.
To ensure the Canon product you purchase is intended for your region, we recommend you visit our “Where to buy” page.
If international delivery of your Canon product is required - for example from Asia or the United States - or the seller is based outside your region, then you may receive grey goods.
The following identification marks and language features may help you identify whether a product is a grey good:
If one of these features is missing, the product may be a grey good:
If one of these features is missing, the product may be a grey good:
If one of these features is missing, the product may be a grey good:
If you remain unsure whether your Canon product is intended for sale in your region, simply send the model name and serial number to ipr.info@canon-europe.com. Please allow a few days for us to check and reply to you by e-mail. Please also note that this query service is limited to compact digital cameras, DSLR cameras, EF-Lenses and video cameras.
If a product you purchase is not what you expected, local consumer protection laws may allow you to return undamaged and unused products, with the receipt, to the seller within a prescribed period after purchase.
Counterfeit Canon products are harder to spot than you think. And more destructive than you think. Find out how to spot them.
Be vigilant when shopping online for Canon products. Make sure you’re using one of our official Canon stores. Learn how to recognise them here.
We comply with the relevant laws and regulations in the many countries where we operate. Find out more about our compliance and legal statements, positions and guidance here.