DO NOT buy from HobbyKing
WARNING: The HobbyKing "In-Stock" Trap (Read Before You Buy)
If you are thinking about ordering a high-value RC from HobbyKing right now, don't. I just had my money held hostage for a ZD Racing MX-07, and after talking to multiple other victims and working in the logistics industry myself, I’ve uncovered their exact playbook.
Please read this before you lose your money:
The "In-Stock" Lie & Fake courier Tracking numbers
They list a massive RC truck as "In Stock - EU/US Warehouse." You hit buy. They immediately generate a local GLS/USPS shipping label. Your order is marked "Shipped," so they can lock in your money. But if you check the tracking, it will say "Label Created - Not Yet Handed to Courier" for weeks.
The Scripted Stall Tactics
When you contact their outsourced support, they act confused. First, they tell you to "wait 2 to 3 weeks for a warehouse investigation." If you push back, the story changes to: "We need 1 to 2 months to investigate the lost parcel."
The Ocean Freight Reality
There is no "investigation," and the parcel isn't lost. They never had the car in your country. They drop-shipped it from China the day you ordered it. They use the 1-to-2-month "investigation" excuse because that is exactly how long it takes a cargo ship to cross the ocean. Once the container finally arrives at the local port, they magically message you: "Great news! We found your package!" >
To the Veterans: You might say, "I just bought from them, and it was fine!" Yes, if you order a $15 LiPo or some props, they probably have it on the shelf. But since their massive $2.8 million FCC lawsuit a few years ago and the subsequent changes in ownership/restructuring, this is NOT the same reliable HobbyKing from 2015. Do not trust them with big-ticket items.
The Bottom Line:
Did you find the Truck/Plane/Boat you want at your Local Hobby Shop for $100 more? BUY IT LOCAL. Do not make the mistake of trying to save a few bucks, because you will end up giving HobbyKing a free 60-day loan while you stare at a fake tracking number and get played like a fool by customer support every time you complain.
If you must use them for cheap parts, ALWAYS use PayPal so you can force a dispute when they inevitably try to stall you.
Stay safe out there!