How to buy a video card?

Hello everybody!
I asked this question already on alt.com.hardware.video but got no answer
for few days so I am posting it here.
I would like to buy a video card in USA.
I am targetting Sapphire Radeon 9800 pro.
Here in Poland prices for this video card start from 300$. I found on
http://www.allstarshop.com that the card can be bought for 209$. Quite a
difference.
I have a friend in Chicago and she will help me but I would like a few
pieces of advice from You.

1) Where it is best(cheapest) to buy a video card? Is
http://www.allstarshop.com OK? Or should my frient try some local shop.

2) How much it will cost to sent a video card to Poland and how should it be
done? I am thinking about some 'tricks' that will make sending cheaper and
help avoid customs control.

3) I know that right now new video cards will appear on the market - how
much time should will it take for the prices to drop? Will the drop be
significant?

4) How should I tell her to test the card before she sends it? Do You think
running a 3d game is enough? Maybe some heavy testing software for few hours
to make sure the card is OK?

Thank You very much in advance for any help/advice!
Maciek