That cost is measured not only in currency, but also in delay, risk, and in quality of service. If they don't ship promptly, hence leave your assembly people idle, or cause you to miss a delivery date, there's a cost associated with that. If you can't rely on the quantity, quality and price being as initially quoted, there's a cost associated with that.

If you get a lower total cost by mail ordering parts from Europe, or from the U.S, then that's what you should do. Don't forget the cost in terms of aggravation and indigestion ... Don't forget about dealing with the customs folks, either.

RE