First check the shipping and handling charges: they can be disproportionate at times, especially if the item you buy is not very expensive. Check if shipping charges are cumulative. You may order few CDs and be charged the same shipping cost per each one: that doesn’t seem very fair since the shipping will be done in one package. Go for companies that charge less the more you buy.
Check the return policy: often you will need to return an item. Sometimes there is no return for certain goods, such as software if the package has been opened, or for personalized items. Check if the company provides for a return free of charge or if you have to pay for the shipment. And if the company will reimburse the original shipping cost when you return the item.
Check if there are restocking fees. For electronics and cameras can be up to 10 - 15% or more. Companies charge a restocking fee to avoid those buyers that “borrow” an item, (especially an expensive one), and then return it after they have used it for a while.
One of the good things about buying on line is that is tax free… Yes, only if your seller is out of state. If you buy from a large online retailer most probably they have an office in your state, and in that case they will collect state taxes.
Use sellers that have secure transactions, so you are sure your credit card number will not be stolen. Most credit cards have protection against fraud, but check with the credit card company what is their policy for online purchases.
If you don’t feel comfortable with the website you are considering, or you see something suspicious, just leave ad use a different company: there are so many opportunities on the Internet that you will find easily a different seller with the same item.
After you have completed your online transaction you will be shown the total cost that will be charged to your card: That is the amount you need to consider and to compare.
Be wise, and your shopping experience on line will be pleasant, and you will save money and time.
Have fun!
Anna Maria Volpi
© Anna Maria Volpi 2004
Check the return policy: often you will need to return an item. Sometimes there is no return for certain goods, such as software if the package has been opened, or for personalized items. Check if the company provides for a return free of charge or if you have to pay for the shipment. And if the company will reimburse the original shipping cost when you return the item.
Check if there are restocking fees. For electronics and cameras can be up to 10 -
One of the good things about buying on line is that is tax free… Yes, only if your seller is out of state. If you buy from a large online retailer most probably they have an office in your state, and in that case they will collect state taxes.
Use sellers that have secure transactions, so you are sure your credit card number will not be stolen. Most credit cards have protection against fraud, but check with the credit card company what is their policy for online purchases.
If you don’t feel comfortable with the website you are considering, or you see something suspicious, just leave ad use a different company: there are so many opportunities on the Internet that you will find easily a different seller with the same item.
After you have completed your online transaction you will be shown the total cost that will be charged to your card: That is the amount you need to consider and to compare.
Be wise, and your shopping experience on line will be pleasant, and you will save money and time.
Have fun!
Anna Maria Volpi
© Anna Maria Volpi 2004
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IMPORTANT TIP:
Use sellers that have secure transactions, so you are sure your credit card number will not be stolen. Most credit cards have protection against fraud, but check with the credit card company what is their policy for online purchases.
Use sellers that have secure transactions, so you are sure your credit card number will not be stolen. Most credit cards have protection against fraud, but check with the credit card company what is their policy for online purchases.
The Wise Shopper On-Line
Tips for Shopping on the Internet
By Anna Maria Volpi
By Anna Maria Volpi
Online shopping can be a very rewarding experience. There are many advantages to online shopping. The stores never close, you don’t have to dress, and most of the time you find greater variety of choices, which make for a very pleasant shopping experience.
During the holidays forget parking problems: you can shop from home!
In addition, for Valentines Day and Christmas, you can find real bargains on the net and the shipments are fast. Just punch in your credit card and it’s done.
Well… not really.
Companies make shopping on line so simple that we forget sometimes to pay closer attention to the charges. You found a great bargain on line: now what?
In addition, for Valentines Day and Christmas, you can find real bargains on the net and the shipments are fast. Just punch in your credit card and it’s done.
Well… not really.
Companies make shopping on line so simple that we forget sometimes to pay closer attention to the charges. You found a great bargain on line: now what?