Tips for Becoming a Savvy Online Shopper

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #1

Before giving your credit or debit card information, be sure that you are shopping from a secure shopping cart interface.  The shopping carts associated with secure sites are known as "SSL" designated sites; "SSL" means "Secure Sockets Layer" technology.  To make sure that you are shopping from an SSL cart, check the web address of the order page. SSL sites begin with “https://” instead of http://.  Other ways to make sure you are shopping from a secure site are: 

• There should be a padlock icon at the bottom of your screen or an unbroken key icon when you are using Netscape Navigator and/or
• There is a lock icon at the bottom of your screen when using Internet Explorer.

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #2

How well do you know the seller?  Obviously, if you're shopping online, you might not personally know the seller, especially if it's an individual or small business across the country from you.  There are some online places that enable you to research the seller's reputation.  The Better Business Bureau’s website (http://www.bbbonline.org) will list seller ratings. You can also research a business through your state’s attorney general’s office. Another way to feel comfortable about an online seller is to see if there are privacy policies, shipping and return policies, and contact information.  You can also get a feel for a seller’s reputation if they have an area where you can check feedback from other buyers.

Blurb Alert! Access HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of brand name, new merchandise items at wholesale prices -- at the guaranteed lowest wholesale prices online!  You don't need to be an eBay reseller or retailer to buy wholesale -- simply get your FREE 7-day trial account, order what you want, pay for it like a regular online store, and have the item of your choice drop-shipped direct from the wholesale warehouse directly to your door.  Save 30%, 40%, 50% or even 60% off of regular retail prices.  Get your free trial right now to access a huge selection of wholesale jewelry, wholesale clothing and accessories.  You'll love it!  (NOTE:  You will still be responsible for state sales taxes.)

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #3

Somewhat like the "know the seller" rule above, make sure that the online vendor provides contact information. Unlike a brick and mortar store that you know will be there the next day, unscrupulous merchants can shut down their web site in the blink of an eye. Make sure that the merchant you are buying from provides you with a physical address.  Sometimes smaller vendors will use a post office box for their own personal protection, but if so, make sure that there is a phone number, fax number and other support information, such as a live help button.  If in doubt, make sure there is a physical address and call the phone  number provided.  If you purchase something from an international seller, you may not have the same rights as if you purchased an item within the United States. Check your credit card statement to see what your rights are before you make a purchase abroad.

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #4

Know the terms of your purchase before you buy. Most reputable vendors will have terms of service, frequently asked questions, support information, privacy policies and shipping policies clearly linked on their pages.  Make sure that you read the terms of your agreement before you click a button that says "agree" before you submit an order.  Disclaimers or terms may include information such as waiving your right to return an item or limiting the amount of time that you have to return items you aren’t satisfied with.  It's a good idea to print these out and, if you decide to buy, to print out the receipt for your payment.  Staple all of this together and keep it somewhere that you can find it.

Hot Auction Items!

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #5

Check to see if there is a warranty for your merchandise. This is very important if you have purchased electronics online. If there is a written warranty, it must be provided to you before you purchase the item. Warranties should include the time frame that the warranty is effective, who to contact if there is a defect or the item malfunctions, and if there a limit to the merchant’s liability. Under federal law, if the item costs more than $10, the merchant must state whether the warranty is “limited” or “full.”

Online Shopping Tips - Rule #6

Obtain the expected delivery date. At checkout, most merchants will provide you with the expected delivery date of your merchandise.  Also, many reputable merchants will send an email verification with a UPS, Federal Express, USPS or other tracking code.  Under federal law, if you don’t receive the item within 30 days of the purchase date, the merchant has to notify you. You then have the right to wait for the merchandise or to cancel the order. Exceptions are when you agree to a longer shipping time due to a special order.

Follow these shopping tips and you are sure to have a safe and satisfying shopping experience online.

"Tips for Becoming a Savvy Online Shopper" contributed by Samantha Jessop