Now, I know that just about everyone and their mother, sister, cousin are familiar with online shopping….I know this. However, are you maximizing your time and decreasing your spending while doing it? I have a few tips that will save you some cash and coin when ordering online. You may already know these, but humor me.
Researching the retailer, store or company is key! You want to know the ends and outs to not only save financially but time as well.
The info box regarding the item….READ it! Literally read everything! Wealth of information there. Sizing….review the sizing chart and measure yourself. while these details can be general, they will at least give you a guideline. Review the materials of the item and research any that you are not familiar with. Example….viscose. A few years ago, I started seeing it alot and had no idea what it was. Now I’ve discovered it’s actually a stretchy material, so items with a high percentage, will have some give. When I see 100% cotton, I know I need to purchase as close as I can true to size, because there won’t be much room for flexing. Another thing to look for is information on the model in the photo. Compare yourself to her shape and size to assist you with picking what will work best. Lastly, look for reviews in this area. This is a wonderful resource. So many shoppers will leave their sizing, deets on material, stretch, length and sometimes pictures!
Next, take a look at the companies return policy! So many retailers have specific rules about returns. I tend to order more from brands that offer free returns and reimbursement in the same form of payment. There are many popular online sites that require you to pay for shipping to return and only give store credit or exchange.
Shipping times are another concern. You want to know how long it will take you to receive your purchases. If you have an event approaching, this will be really important. Some retailers will have a US based website but are headquartered in another country or ship from outside the US. If you order a specific piece for an upcoming event and it arrives after, you will be pressed to decide to return or keep something that you really don’t need at the particular time.
The last tip is GOOGLE! This is the holy grail resource for a few reasons! First, there are sometimes reviews, complaints and company details regarding ethics and other topics that you may want to consider before supporting a brand. Second, coupon codes! I never order anything online before searching for the best coupon code available.
All of these tips will maximize your savings and reduce the time you will have to spend shipping returns, only to wait more time for a refund! What are some online shopping tips you’ve discovered? Let me know in the comments!
Author
I’m glad! Thanks so much!🖤
Those were some great tips! I jotted down the one on measuring yourself. It’s sounds like a big task but like you said…it’ll avoid you having to return it later. I like to use PayPal when ordering if it’s available especially if I’m ordering from a new, smaller brand.
Author
Wow!!! That’s a great one about PayPal! You can always dispute if there are issues and get your coin back! 🖤
Great tips JESS, I learned a lot!!!! Keep up the good work.