Shimano components sold on Ebay

without seeing a specific post, i can't say for sure, but a lot of those parts may be OEM parts which means they were designated to be put on a new bike build by a manufacturer. example: bike brand X has a build with a shimano deore drivetrain, they'll get the deore parts from shimano in bulk/plastic bags so they can be mounted to the complete build. the bike brand has no need for the aftermarket packaging because the parts aren't being put on a shelf to be sold. the usual rule is that these parts are not allowed to be sold individually, and warranties may be at risk if you buy.

there may be different caveats to the situations, but that's the general gist of it. maybe others can chime in with more info.

Check feedback. That would tell you.

this is correct.

What happens is some suppliers set up "ghost companies" to get OEM pricing on components, there may or may not be frames from 1994 in a factory somewhere for these parts to go on, but either way, you are getting genuine shimano in a plastic bag with no documentation or packaging. I bought a lot of Di2 rear Mechs like this as it was only affordable way to replace my broken ones.

I never had to warranty one, but I'd check with the seller that you get warranty. I also bought a few sets of MT520 4 piston brakes like this with no problems.

It's a bit of a shady practice, but a good way to get Genuine gear at great prices.

I second, or third, this. 

I bought some Deore brakes for my fat bike through one of these sellers this winter. If you PM me, I can look up the sellers name

If it's a knock off it should be much cheaper...that's normal pricing.

I know this place is legit, they have been around for years. I've gotten lots of OE packaged Shimano goods from them.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/352838471668?hash=item5226cfcff4:g:~RwAAOSwqr5duf0n

Speaking of aftermarket and packaging, is it just me, or do parts really come with RIDICULOUS and excessive packaging. I understand that you need to idiot proof your stuff, so you won't get sued, but there are shifter boxes out there that can fit almost an entire drivetrain and there is an excess of cardboard on pretty much everything. Aren't we supposed to live in an era where we respect the planet? Because all of this adds up, costs shitloads of money for nothing and only puts a heavier burden on nature.

Isn't there a more decent way? SRAM? Shimano? Meow?

Mx

shimano is in the middle of switching everything over to sustainable packaging without plastics

blue packaging = old, grey non printed ones are new