Understanding the Cost of White Goods in Israel
How do I know what to buy when making aliyah or relocating?
When planning your Aliyah or relocation to Israel, it's essential to consider the costs of purchasing everyday items like white goods. With different voltage requirements, and sometimes water quality, it's often a challenge to know whether to bring items from home or buy them in Israel. In this article we'll examine the common questions that we at easyaliyah have experienced related to white goods in Israel together with a bit of advice to help inform your decision.
What Are White Goods?
White goods are major household appliances that are traditionally made in white enamel finish. They are typically large and heavy, and are designed to perform specific functions within the home. White goods include appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers etc
Examples of White Goods
· Refrigerators – They are used to store food and keep it fresh even for food types not normally stored in fridge or freezer. This could be nuts, grains, spices and more.They come in various sizes and styles, with features like ice makers and water dispensers and are specified to deal with the Israeli Summer. So not all fridges are the same worldwide!
· Washing Machines – In Israel they come in front-loading and top-loading models, with features like steam cleaning and energy efficiency. Similar to worldwide models.
· Dishwashers They come in various sizes and styles, with features like adjustable racks and energy efficiency
· Ovens - These appliances are used for cooking and baking. They come in various types, like gas and electric, with features like convection cooking and self-cleaning.
In Israel these white goods are typically more expensive than small appliances, but they are also built to last longer and perform more functions. When purchasing white goods, it is important to consider energy efficiency, size, and specific features that are important for your household needs. So you ideally should have an idea of your property layout before making the final buying decision
Factors Affecting the Cost of White Goods in Israel
When purchasing white goods in Israel, there are a number of factors that can impact the cost. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money.
Import Taxes
One of the main factors affecting the cost of white goods in Israel is import taxes. Historically Israel has imposed high tariffs on imported goods, including electronics and appliances. These taxes can add a significant amount to the cost of white goods, but in the last decade prices have almost come into line with Europe.
It's important to note that some white goods may be exempt from import taxes if they are manufactured in Israel or in countries with which Israel has a free trade agreement.
Here is an article with more information about import taxes in Israel.
Competition
Another factor that can impact the cost of white goods in Israel is competition. When there are multiple retailers selling the same product, they may lower their prices in order to attract customers.
Shopping around and comparing prices can help you find the best deal on white goods. Online marketplaces, such as the ones mentioned in the reference article, can also provide access to a wider range of products and prices.
easyaliyah TIP Price comparison sites like Zap are useful for finding deals and are searchable in English via Google. So just type for example: “zap beko washing machine” in Google search and that will make life a lot easier than starting the search within Zap
Availability
The availability of white goods in Israel can also affect the cost. If a particular product is in high demand but there is limited supply, the price can increase. Conversely, if there are plenty of white goods available, retailers may lower their prices in order to move inventory. So be aware!
It's important to keep in mind that the availability of white goods can vary depending on the region in Israel. For example, certain products may be more readily available in larger cities than in smaller towns.
Here is an article with more information about how availability affects the cost of some white goods in Israel.
Average Cost of White Goods in Israel
Comparison with Other Countries when making aliyah
When comparing the average cost of white goods in Israel to other countries, it is important to note that the prices in Israel tend to be higher than in some other places. For example, according to a report by Numbeo, the cost of a washing machine in Israel is approximately 30% higher than in the United States. Similarly, the cost of a refrigerator is about 25% higher in Israel compared to the US. However, it is worth noting that the prices of white goods in Israel are lower than in some other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, where the cost can be up to twice as high as in Israel. With currency fluctuations and regular price changes it is best you do your own research from the tools in this article.
Comparison with Local Israeli Products
When comparing the cost of white goods in Israel to local Israeli products, the prices can vary depending on the brand and quality. In general, local Israeli products tend to be cheaper than imported brands. For example, a local Israeli washing machine can cost around 2,000-3,000 shekels ($600-$900 USD), while an imported brand can cost around 4,000-5,000 shekels ($1,200-$1,500 USD) or more. Similarly, a local Israeli refrigerator can cost around 2,500-3,500 shekels ($750-$1,050 USD), while an imported brand can cost around 4,000-6,000 shekels ($1,200-$1,800 USD) or more.
It is important to note that the prices of white goods in Israel can fluctuate depending on various factors, such as the exchange rate, import taxes, and availability of products. It is recommended to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. There are many local retailers and online stores where you can find a variety of white goods at competitive prices.
When it comes to buying white goods in Israel, it is important to keep in mind that the prices may be higher than in some other countries, but there are also options for finding affordable, local products. By doing your research and comparing prices, you can find the best deals on white goods that fit your budget and needs.
Sources:
· Numbeo
Where to buy white goods in Israel
Local Stores
If you prefer to see and touch the appliances before buying, you can visit local stores. You can find a variety of white goods in appliance stores and home improvement stores, such as Ace Hardware, Kfar HashaShuim, and Hazi Hinam. These stores are located throughout Israel and offer a wide range of products from different brands. If you are looking for a specific brand or model, you can call ahead to check availability.
Online Retailers
There are several online retailers in Israel where you can buy white goods. Shopping online can be more convenient since you can browse products from the comfort of your own home and have them delivered to your doorstep. Here are some popular online retailers in Israel:
· www.zap.co.il - This site offers discounts on computers, home appliances, home furnishings, and much more. It allows you to view prices from different vendors, so that you can comparison shop.
· www.yad2.co.il - This site covers property sale and rental, a job board, a business directory, and more. It offers both new and used items, including household items like furniture, electronic devices, and air conditioners.
· www.homeless.co.il - This site provides information about properties, cars, a job board, and more. It has an extensive section on used items, offering everything from beds and bicycles to local fitness center memberships.
These online retailers offer delivery services throughout Israel and sometimes offer significant discounts on white goods. It is important to check the warranty and return policies before making a purchase.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of buying white goods in Israel largely depends on the specific items being purchased.
For small appliances, it may be more cost-effective to buy these in Israel, as this eliminates the need for expensive converters or transformers to accommodate voltage differences. Additionally, purchasing locally ensures compatibility with Israeli outlets and reduces potential performance issues. DYOR!
For Larger appliances, if you are shipping from abroad what are the constraints of the guarantee? Would the guarantee be easily honoured or would it be a hassle fighting it out locally? What’s with installation? What happens if you need a crane to deposit the item in the apartment? So you can see where I am going with this one!
By considering these factors, one can make an informed decision about whether to buy white goods in Israel or bring them from home. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, budget, and convenience. Good luck!