Americans save a bit on VAT—like 75% of the VAT paid, after the processing fee. It also depends on where the dollar is, but there are definite savings. We have a Madison Goyard in New York, but I expect their inventory to be forever challenged for the popularity it enjoys.Yes, I bought from Paris but I am in Europe, so I have no idea what is the price in the States.
The process was very smooth and easy, but again, I am within the EU so no taxes and so on.