If you’re like the many hard-working consumers who hate waiting in long checkout lines and burning your tank of gas looking for the best deals on the products you want, then online shopping may be right for you! Shopping online can save you the headache of pushing through crowds of people at your favorite store, and save you and your wallet the frustration of buying an expensive product. Ladies and gentlemen, instead of spending too much on that fabulous skirt or getting disappointed because you can’t find the right pair of shoes for your size or style, check out the world of online shopping. When shopping online, remember the top five things to keep in mind before confirming your payment.
1. Review shipping rates and delivery estimates
Most online retailers offer a standard flat-rate shipping option for products, which is among the most popular affordable options for consumers. Expedited shipping is often available, but can often be an expensive option.
The average standard delivery estimate is five to fifteen business days. Expedited shipping averages 3-5 business days, but is often double the cost of standard shipping. Free shipping is available on certain products depending on the retailer. Always check shipping rates and delivery estimates to receive the best deal.
2. Review the return policy of each item
Each online retailer has different return policies for their products. Before placing an order online, please check with the online customer service department to review the item’s return policy regarding time frame for returns and defective products.
3. Look for the product quality rating on the website
Quality ratings are provided to help provide mental images of the item’s condition. The most common terms used by online retailers are “new,” “used,” “like new,” “refurbished,” and “fair.” item rating before paying.
4. Recognize customer feedback
Customer reviews, just like recommendations from friends or family, can influence your decision to purchase an item online. Customer reviews are firsthand experiences from other online shoppers who have purchased the item you are considering. These reviews will tell you if the item has arrived, how it is described, how long it has lasted, how well it works, and more. If available, check out customer reviews to get an idea of ββthe product and ensure your complete satisfaction with the purchase.
5. Trust that the product is what you want.
Product descriptions should be read carefully to get a clear understanding of the item. Depending on what you decide to buy, always double-check the model, sizes, and colors before clicking through to the final purchase. So instead of anxiously waiting for that beautiful sofa to be delivered, only to find out that it won’t fit through your front door, double check and read each description carefully.
Five steps to do it now:
Step 1: Look it up. The first thing you should do is search for it on Google. Search for the specific item you’re looking for and consider adding the terms “best price” or “best value.”
Step 2: Compare. For products, start with Amazon.com, check out aggregators like Ebates.com and Fat Wallet, and search daily deal sites for the products you want.
Step 3 β Look for additional savings. Many websites have frequent coupon codes that you can get from aggregators like Retail Me Not or Chippmunk if they’re not on Ebates.
Step 4 β Search for your item on select retail sites. There are many great selling websites based on the type of product that might have the same or similar products.
Step 5: Wait! If the need for a product is not urgent, wait a few days before buying anything.
Step 6: Go ahead! Now you are ready to buy.
Whenever the day comes when you decide to shop online, remember these five things to get the most out of your purchase because shopping online can be a great way to shop stress-free, save time, and leave your pocket happy.