Shopping Tip List

Here's a list of tips you should consult when shopping online.  Print this page, and keep it in a handy place so it will be easy to review before you place an order.

1.   Trust Your Instincts.  If you don't feel comfortable buying or bidding on an item over the web, or if you feel pressured to place your order immediately, maybe you shouldn't.

2.   Be Knowledgeable about web-based Auctions.  Take special care to familiarize yourself not only with the rules and policies of the auction site itself but also with the terms and conditions of the seller(s) item that you wish to bid on.

3.   Double Check Pricing.  Whether the product is being sold as new or used, be suspicious of prices that are too good to be true.  Also, consider carefully whether you are paying too much for an item, particularly if you're bidding through an auction site.  You may want to comparison shop online or offline before you bid or buy.

4.   Find and Read the Privacy Policy.  Find and read the privacy policy carefully to find out what information the seller or site is gathering from you, how the information will be used, and how you can stop the process.  If a site does not have a privacy policy posted, you may want to inquire before conducting business.  If the site does have a privacy policy, there will probably be a link to it from the seller's home page, or it could be including with the legal terms or terms and conditions.

5.   Review the Terms & Conditions.  Be sure to review the return, refund, shipping, handling and other policies of the seller as well as any legal terms.  Sellers on the Internet are no different than local retailers - they want you to be pleased with your purchase.  If you have ANY questions that you can't find an answer to, ASK!  Most sellers will have a contact button where you can inquire via e-mail.  Others may provide a phone number you can call.  If you have any questions, or require clarification on an item, a policy or other - ASK!

6.    Check for Secure Internet Connections.  Before you give any payment information, be certain the web site you are transacting with has a secure Internet connection.  See Safe Shopping Online, item # 1 for more details on this.

7.    Pay Safely.  Experts suggest the safest way to pay on the Internet is with a credit card.  Credit or charge card providers have different levels of buyer protection; be aware of your provider's coverage, conditions and policies.  If the seller uses Paypal or another online transaction service, be sure that you establish a username and password that is private and secure. 

8.    Pay Exact Amount.  Be sure when you conduct your business that you pay the exact amount of purchase as specified by the seller, no more and no less!  Many sellers offer discounted shipping if you buy multiple items, which provides even better savings.  If you're not certain how much to pay your buyer, request an invoice in writing.  Most sellers will send one without a request, but if you don't get one, ASK!  If you are asked to pay MORE than the transaction should be, DON'T!  Do not do business with a seller that suggests you overpay, and they will credit you back.

9.    Ensure Safe Delivery of Your Item.  If you are concerned about the safety of your package, ask about signature required shipping services.  Another option is to have your purchase delivered to your office instead of your home.  Depending upon the shipping services/providers used by the buyer, you can usually ensure a safe delivery with ease.  If you have any special conditions, ask before you buy. 

10. Inspect Purchase.  Look at your purchase carefully as soon as possible after you have received it.  If there are any questions or concerns, contact the seller as quickly as you can.  Be sure to reference the order number, the item number or the item name for the seller.  It's best to send a message, so you can keep a copy for your records.