FAQ: CanonPriceWatch’s Street Prices

We hope to answer many of the frequently asked questions about our street prices feature!


What are “Street Prices”?

Street prices are special deals available at Canon authorized dealers that are “too low to show” on their website. These prices are often several hundred dollars lower than the advertised price for the exact same item at other authorized dealers.

See all street prices here.

Many readers have happily purchased at the street prices and have saved lots of money! Don’t take our word for it, read their reviews.


Who are these dealers? Are these products the same?

We ensure that all street prices are from reputable authorized Canon dealers, often they are ones we already list as “Authorized Dealers” on our site.

The items are brand new US model with a full one-year Canon USA warranty. Exactly identical to purchasing the item from any authorized dealer store, in original retail packaging, except the price! These are not grey market / imports, not used, not refurbished. They are 100% brand new.

Occasionally, to get an even better deal, the retailers may be offering a split-kit: that is a camera body is sold in a kit box with the lens removed. In this case, the box has been opened to take the lens out, but otherwise 100% brand new. We will always tell you up-front if this is the case.


What’s the catch? Are there any hidden fees?

There is no catch! These are brand new, Canon USA model and Canon USA warranty items, not grey market, from reputable authorized dealers. Free shipping and no hidden fees of any kind. Everything is brand new in original packaging (unless otherwise noted), and all usual accessories normally included with the item are included. This is the same as going to your favorite Canon retail store and buying the item — except of course, the price!


Why the secrecy?

As you may be aware, as of April 2014, Canon USA is now enforcing a strict Minimum Advertised Price on all lenses and bodies. This means authorized Canon dealers cannot (under any circumstances) advertise a price below this minimum advertised price. This doesn’t stop dealers from having deals and specials, it just prevents them from telling you about it.

Dealers can’t even use the old “Add to Cart” trick to tell you about their lower prices, thus the “Street Price” was created. It enables the Canon community to share knowledge of these deals (while allowing the dealer to remain MAP compliant).

We ask that you please do not identify the retailers in a public way (comment posts on our blog, forums, etc.) as it helps ensure we can continue to do these deals going forward.


What is the ordering process? Whom do I pay?

If you are interested in a street price, the first step is to fill out the street price contact form, it’s the yellow box above the price box on participating product pages.

We’ll be in contact with you, to explain the current deals that we are aware of, to confirm your interest, and ask for your details (e.g. name and shipping address).

When you are ready, we’ll help forward these details to a retailer who is willing to sell at this price. These prices can change often and quickly (especially as retailers sell out) so we’re actually doing quite a bit of work behind the scenes to find you stores that are selling at a great price.

Your transaction is directly with the retailer, and is one of the below (depending on retailer):

  1. The retailer will e-mail you a PayPal invoice that you can pay with any credit card, even without a PayPal account.
  2. Or, you may be provided a special link to complete your purchase at the retailer’s website.

We’ll let you know which method the retailer will use.

Many readers are concerned about paying an e-mail PayPal invoice — these are reputable sellers, but just in case, you are eligible for full PayPal buyer protection (as well as credit card protection if you fund your purchase with a card). If you don’t want to use PayPal, the store can accommodate alternative methods (such as a direct credit card).

We ask that you please do not identify the retailer in a public way (comment posts on our blog, forums, etc.) as it helps ensure we can continue to do these deals going forward.


Why must I provide my address and phone number to place an order?

You need to provide us with your contact details so we can forward them to the retailer. By forwarding your details to the retailer, the retailer saves time in entering your order, and there is less chance of a mistake (vs. giving your contact details over the phone). Your contact information is only used for the purposes of this order and will not be used by us for any other purpose.


What is the tax, shipping, and return policy?

For most deals we have enough retailer coverage to ensure no tax to all US states. Otherwise, tax will be clearly noted in the reply.

Free standard shipping (within the continental US) is included for all street prices.

The minimum return policy is a seven-day return for replacement or full refund if defective (the retailer pays return shipping if defective). Many retailers go beyond this minimum policy, so please inquire.


Are street prices available in Canada?

As of October 2017, select street prices are available in Canada. When you inquire via the street price form and provide a Canadian postal code, you will receive information on the best pricing available (including shipping within or to Canada). All street prices do not incur additional brokerage or duty fees, however Canadian GST (or HST, depending on your province) will be added to your order.


Where do you get your street prices from?

We rely on our community to tell us about great prices and deals that they have received. We also ask retailers to contact us to let us know if they can do a better price on a particular item.


Am I eligible for the mail-in rebate?

Your eligibility for mail-in rebates will be clearly noted in the e-mail.

Some readers have expressed concern that the low purchase price would affect their eligibility for mail-in rebate. This is untrue — the Canon mail-in rebate does not depend on purchase price; as long as the purchase is made from a US authorized dealer, is a retail box version, and within the time period (and quantity limits), our readers have not had an issue with applying for and receiving the mail-in rebate.


Can I get a further discount, please?

Many readers ask us if it’s possible to get a further discount below the street price. The prices we show are the bottom line prices at this time, and no further discounting is possible.

First, we don’t set the prices — these are prices that we know are being offered by the retailers, and we have no discretion to give you a discount. Second, these prices are already very low, and it’s the best price available from the retailer at that time. (Retailers are also unable to offer rewards or free accessories commonly offered to customers to pay full price.)

As street prices are already a very manual process (think of it as a “group buy”), we ask that you please do not further negotiate or haggle with either us (we can’t do anything!) or the retailer. More hassle/time spent by the retailer means higher prices in the future for all of us — everything has a cost. Thanks for your understanding!


I did this and I’m happy! How do I leave a review?

Thanks for asking! You can leave a review on the street price testimonials page. Please, do not identify the retailer or write details that could help identify the retailer.


65 comments on “FAQ: CanonPriceWatch’s Street Prices

  1. ron fucci
    November 26, 2014 at 6:00 pm EST

    I recently purchased a Canon 6D body and have a question re: the rebate process. Please contact me.

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      November 26, 2014 at 6:43 pm EST

      Hi Ron, I sent you an email.

  2. December 2, 2014 at 8:59 pm EST

    If I order a lens will I get it in time for Christmas?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 2, 2014 at 9:00 pm EST

      If you order a lens, you’ll probably get it at the end of this week or early next week. 😉

  3. Ira
    December 2, 2014 at 11:58 pm EST

    If I buy from a Canadian dealer is there any kind of duty or other tax that has to be paid?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      January 25, 2015 at 11:20 am EST

      It depends on how the dealer ships it. Occasionally there are street price deals from a Canadian authorized dealer, this dealer ships by USPS, which does not incur tax or import duties or brokerage fees. Not once has a reader been charged tax, duty, or extra fees.

  4. Ed
    December 13, 2014 at 3:42 pm EST

    I just bought a lens using street price. Lo and behold, there was a price drop a week after I bought my lens. Will the dealer honor this new price? I know I can still return the lens but I don’t want to go through the hassle of returning it.

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 13, 2014 at 3:53 pm EST

      Hi Ed, not a problem. I just sent you an e-mail and will work with the dealer in getting you a price adjustment.

  5. December 13, 2014 at 7:33 pm EST

    I just purchased one and it was delivered this week. Can I get a an adjustment as well.

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 13, 2014 at 7:37 pm EST

      Hi Jeff, I can’t figure out who you are from this post, please send us an email? Thanks.

      1. December 13, 2014 at 7:45 pm EST

        I posted a few up last week can you use that post, or . Do I have to post my email here for everyone to see?

        1. CanonPriceWatch
          December 13, 2014 at 7:47 pm EST

          Please send us an email. If you purchased through street price, just reply to that email thread and we’ll know who you are!

        2. December 13, 2014 at 7:55 pm EST

          I just replied to it. Did you get it?

  6. Dariusz
    December 14, 2014 at 5:05 am EST

    Are these deals available for international customers. I live in UAE.
    Kind regards

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 15, 2014 at 10:13 am EST

      You would need to be able to ship to the USA, as the price requires a mail-in rebate (which requires a US mailing address). An international billing address is okay.

  7. Dariusz
    December 15, 2014 at 11:45 am EST

    I understand that mail -in -rebate requires US shipping address. SO here my further questions
    1. What about deals that are not including mail-in-rebate e.g 300mm f2.8 II.Is this still require US shipping address
    2. Can I resign from receiving mail in rebate and pay price like for international customer
    Kind regards

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 15, 2014 at 11:53 am EST

      The street price retailers can only ship to a US address. Yes, you can pay full pre-rebate price and not do the mail-in rebate.

  8. Dariusz
    December 15, 2014 at 1:19 pm EST

    Thanks for your reply
    Kind regards

  9. Mike w
    December 19, 2014 at 10:10 am EST

    What about items not on this list?

  10. Michael Brown
    December 31, 2014 at 12:53 pm EST

    How do we request that additional products be considered for the street price program? For example, I am interested in the Canon 35mm F/2 IS lens.

  11. Christa Pearson
    March 6, 2015 at 5:34 pm EST

    How long will it be until I receive my item if I placed an order today? There was no estimated shipping date.

  12. Mike Poole
    March 17, 2015 at 11:50 am EST

    Would it be possible to identify when a Street price is from a Canadian dealer for us Canadians, without actually pursuing the deal?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      March 17, 2015 at 11:58 am EST

      Unfortunately we can’t at this time — but if you inquire we can respond on the applicability of that deal to Canada.

  13. A
    March 18, 2015 at 1:26 pm EST

    I am guessing no, but had to ask. Are there potential discounts for buying 2 or more lenses?

  14. Peter
    March 31, 2015 at 10:01 am EST

    Is there any street price for local Canadian in CAD? Thx

  15. Nico
    April 21, 2015 at 9:16 pm EST

    Overall, it is an amazing shopping experience via CPW (canon price watch). I am happy to buy my 1st DSLR camera here. I am very satisfied with my shopping this time with CPW. Briefly speaking, I’ve received $300 for the rebate from Canon within 5 weeks since the required documents sent out. I’d like to share some of my experience here with others so you may not afraid to place your order via CPW.
    FYI, I bought one Canon EOS 6D with 24-105mm f/4L Kit first, and after I receiving my kit, I recommend CPW to my friend immediately to buy 2nd same camera kit from CPW.

    Before buying:
    1. The customer service is really good and responsive to any questions you may have. The FAQ section page is really helpful too for 1st buyer to read before placing the order.
    2. The authorized dealer that CPW recommended is a reliable dealer which is recognized by Canon company (this is quite important for the people to know who has never purchase anything from here).
    3. The inquiry from both CPW customer service and the authorized dealer goes very well and effective based on your questions. And the answers are easy understand and straightforward, even though for any international customer, like me.
    4. The shipping for the product is fast and arrived in 3 days (btw I am living in Hawaii).

    During:
    Some unexpected problems happened after I placed my order. But the problem get resolved well. I am satisfied with that outcome. (I think it is important to share a little bit my story here) Basically, the price for the camera kit has changed to a certain extent after purchasing within 10 days. I was shocked with that price changing in such a short time. Thus, I contacted CPW to let them know what happened. And they provided me with very professional advices. Eventually, the dealer refund me in a certain way which make me feel very comfortable and satisfied. That’s why I felt like it is necessary for me to share something in terms of such good customer services and there is no hesitation for me and my friend to recommend to anyone who has the desire to buy a camera.

    After buying:
    1. The package for the product (Canon EOS 6D with 24-105mm f/4L Kit) that I purchased is complete. All items are brand new and sealed in bags.
    2. Shutter count for both my and my friends’ 6d is ZERO (not sure if it is good thing, others may say less than 100 is reasonable, but mine is 0)
    3. I’ve used my 6d several times in different scenarios, like beach at daytime, sunset, fireworks at night. So far, it turned out to be a good camera (i knew too good to be true, but this is truth somehow I have to believe). The lens are working in a very good condition as well as the camera body as of today. No problem detected, even minor.
    4. Dead pixels test has been conducted on my camera screen, and no dead pixels founded so far.

    I think that’s pretty much. If you have any concerns or questions, you are welcome to leave your message here. I will try my best to answer. Overall, it is an amazing and unbelievable satisfactory online shopping experience. Thank CPW, the authorized dealer, and Gordon for their patience and good services. 100% definitely will recommend to others and come back to purchase more if in need.

  16. Peter
    May 20, 2015 at 12:04 pm EST

    I’m a very skeptical person when it comes to good deals. However, I decided to try the street price feature here for a 6D body only. I was contacted very quickly about an offer from a USA authorized dealer.

    Not only was I put in touch with them immediately, the dealer’s email contact was very responsive. I looked up the dealer’s name on Canon’s list of authorized dealer and can confirm that the street price feature uses Canon authorized dealers.

    I ordered the same day using PayPal (which adds some security for the purchaser) and was given a tracking number the next day. My 6D arrived as promised, with full USA warranty, and I was able to register it online with no problems.

    I would wholeheartedly recommend the street price feature for anybody trying to save a bit of money. Shipping was free and I didn’t have to pay tax so I saved over $300 from where I would purchase regularly. Thanks so much, I’ll definitely be using the street price feature again in the future!

  17. May 20, 2015 at 8:06 pm EST

    I’ve used the Street Price service twice for fairly large purchases and have been very pleased with how easily everything works. I think I saved roughly 8-10 % below the usual advertised prices.

    Keep up the good work guys!

  18. May 20, 2015 at 11:50 pm EST

    I have paypal credit and would like to buy new gear with it, when paying through paypal will you be able to pay with paypal credit?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      May 20, 2015 at 11:57 pm EST

      Yes, you can use PayPal Credit (formerly BillMeLater.)

  19. August 1, 2015 at 5:47 am EST

    How wary should I be about buying from a non-authorized dealer?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      August 1, 2015 at 11:41 am EST

      When buying from an non-authorized dealer you must be a bit more wary, as there are many bait & switch outfits. If you’re buying from an unauthorized dealer we recommend sticking with the large ones that sell via a platform like eBay (such as GetItDigital). This is so you get the buyer protection eBay offers if something goes south.

      In general, when you buy from an unauthorized dealer you forego the guaranteed Canon USA warranty, although historically Canon seems to honor it. You also forego any promotions Canon USA is running at this time, for example the free Adobe Creative Cloud offered now with body purchases.

      You can read this post for more details about authorized, unauthorized, and grey market.

      http://www.canonpricewatch.com/blog/authorized-unauthorized-dealers-and-grey-market-explained/

  20. September 9, 2015 at 11:50 am EST

    Does Canon Price Watch add $ to the price the retailer is willing to sell for? I mean, if I am told that an authorized retailer says they are willing to sell a camera body to me for $800, is their price REALLY $800? Or, is their price a little less, say $775, and then the additional $25 is simply CPW adding some onto the top for themselves?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      September 9, 2015 at 11:36 pm EST

      The price we list is the final and total price that you pay to the retailer. CPW does not add any fees to your price.

  21. Mindi
    October 8, 2015 at 1:25 pm EST

    How long does it usually take to get a response once you provide your info in the box?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      October 8, 2015 at 1:27 pm EST

      Typically a few minutes. Although sometimes up to an hour delay during business hours, depending on how many things we have going at the time!

  22. January 10, 2016 at 9:31 am EST

    so the 6D street price of 1799 is after rebate? I would have to pay 2050 and get 350 later? I was under the impression the street prices were what you pay in cash for the product, without rebate

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      January 10, 2016 at 10:58 am EST

      There is currently no rebate on a body-only purchase. Thus for the current street price of $1759 for the 6D + 24-105, that is the price you pay in cash.

      If you want the printer bundle, please consider the current bundle deals at Adorama and B&H, it is currently $1699 for the bundle after a $350 mail-in rebate. http://www.canonpricewatch.com/blog/2016/01/pixma-pro-100-bundle-deals-keep-on-coming-back/

  23. January 10, 2016 at 11:39 am EST

    Ok. Thanks. not interested in the printer bundle, rather pay the 1759 for the 6D with the 24-105 L. Does Canon offer rebates for camera only? possible to see this in the future? need to buy the camera before April for an Europe trip. Thanks

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      January 10, 2016 at 12:01 pm EST

      Canon is currently running a $300 instant rebate on the EOS 6D where the rebate is already deducted from the purchase price of the camera. In the past they did mail-in rebates, and these days they are more focused on instant rebates.

  24. January 10, 2016 at 8:01 pm EST

    Do you this 300 instant rebate will continue in February? Ithanks again

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      January 10, 2016 at 11:28 pm EST

      Likely, but we can never predict what Canon will do!

  25. January 16, 2016 at 4:16 pm EST

    if I buy a camera now and the price goes down within a month, will the CPW retailer honor this price change ?

  26. gregg
    February 6, 2016 at 6:37 am EST

    I was very nervous when after saying I wanted to buy through this service the first request was for my full real address and phone number. My fear was unwarranted and I received exactly what was promised. I will use this service again – probably for all my purchases going forward! Thank you.

  27. Manish
    February 11, 2016 at 12:27 pm EST

    After filling the form for Street price, If I notice that the Authorized dealer is not the one I want to make purchase with, Will I be allowed to cancel my purchase?

  28. Brian
    March 24, 2016 at 1:21 am EST

    What the difference between usa and canada warranty? If i choose the canadian authorize dealer will I able to register it as a USA or Canada? If something wrong with the camera where I will send it to repair?

  29. November 22, 2016 at 7:26 pm EST

    OMG…that was quick… and from Canada no less. I don’t think I’ve ever received anything even that fast from one of the popular NYC store. Awesome lens, amazing price, thank you Gordon.

  30. Mike
    April 4, 2017 at 12:17 pm EST

    Hello CPW, I am looking to purchase 5d mk4 body, but I live in Canada. Can I still able to buy it from CPW? will be there any taxes and extra fee.
    Thank You

  31. Madrone
    May 27, 2017 at 7:01 pm EST

    I got a Canon 100mm Macro L series lens from This site.. all good

  32. JERRY MCGILLIVRAY
    June 14, 2017 at 7:59 pm EST

    I see I can get a Canon 80D kit with a 18-135mm lense. But what I really want is the Canon 80D kit with a 18-200mm lense. Can you ask the sellar if he can build this kit for me?

  33. Raj
    June 28, 2017 at 1:05 am EST

    Hi CPW, I’m interested in buying the 100-400 II. Please contact me as I have a question

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      June 28, 2017 at 1:06 am EST

      Hi Raj, please fill out the inquiry form on the 100-400 II product page, and indicate your question.

  34. Tony
    October 11, 2017 at 8:49 pm EST

    what is usually the cost to ship to canada and duty charges?

  35. Dennies Asilo
    November 21, 2017 at 12:32 am EST

    Hi, I dont reside in US but there’s a package forwarder service that I usually use to ship items from Amazon. Can I also use that po box address when buying a lens here?

  36. Jamie
    November 24, 2017 at 3:40 pm EST

    After paypal payment. What should I do? Do I need to send the paypal email back again? When I can get my lens?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      November 24, 2017 at 4:14 pm EST

      After PayPal payment, the retailer will ship your item, and send you a tracking number. If the store is already closed for the day, this will happen on the morning of the next business day.

  37. Stephanie
    June 1, 2018 at 8:03 pm EST

    What are your hours of operation for Street Price orders? I’m nervous I’m going to miss out on a deal because I’m not hearing back from the person I’ve been corresponding with.

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      June 2, 2018 at 7:10 pm EST

      We don’t have fixed hours — we generally reply to inquiries seven days a week and from morning to night. We strive to reply within 2 hours during business hours (Eastern timezone) and within 4 hours in the evenings and during weekends.

  38. Janet Fry
    August 29, 2018 at 3:32 pm EST

    Why isn’t a street price offered for Canon 7d II?

  39. Sean
    November 29, 2018 at 5:14 pm EST

    Great deal for sigma art 50mm f1.4

  40. Atis
    December 21, 2018 at 4:01 pm EST

    Do these deals apply to people in the EU and if yes, are there any additional costs?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      December 21, 2018 at 5:00 pm EST

      Some dealers are able to ship to Europe, however extra shipping and VAT on arrival may apply.

  41. Anh
    April 19, 2019 at 2:22 pm EST

    What is the common lead time from filling out the form to receiving the item regarding that buyer responds promptly to any seller’s request?

    1. CanonPriceWatch
      April 19, 2019 at 3:23 pm EST

      We typically reply to the form within hours, and orders can be placed same-day. Shipping is typically anywhere from next-day to one week, depending on speed of shipping service selected and proximity to the store.

  42. A.syed hasan
    October 12, 2019 at 7:49 am EST

    Tamil Nadu price in Coimbatore main dealer.

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