Online Shopping Tips

Consider these online shopping tips before purchasing products and services online.

In which country is the company located?

Look through the website for a "Contact Us" page to locate their address. No address? See if the telephone number is a U.S exchange.

Do they have a customer service telephone number?

Call the number to see if someone answers. If you get voicemail, leave a message to see if someone calls you back in a timely manner.

What to ask customer service?

Ask the customer service person about the company's purchasing, shipping, and return policies. Ask them how the products are shipped and how long it will take for the products to arrive. Ask them who pays for the shipping if you return an item.

What are their web site shopping and return policies?

Do they have their shopping and return policies posted on their website? If they do, print them out for future reference.

Not sure about the company, but still want to buy from them?

Considering using your credit card instead of your debit card. Your debit card is tied directly to your checking or savings account. Your credit card is billed monthly, giving you the opportunity to review all charges prior to sending payment.

Is the shopping cart secure?

Once in the shopping cart, look for a "lock" and look for the "s" (https://) in the address bar of your browser.