Do you know that you can shop for just about anything from your Baie-Comeau home. I haven't left the house in 8 weeks, or changed my clothes in 3. Technology is great, isn't it!
You can order all sorts of things from the comfort of your home using the telephone, mail, or a computer. But along with this convenience can come complaints of late delivery, shipment of wrong or damaged items, and hidden costs. To avoid problems and to make it easier to resolve them when they do happen, be sure you follow the advice in the Before You Buy checklist.
In addition:
- Know your seller. If you do not, do some research.
- Company web sites often provide information in a section called "About Us." Some online sellers participate in programs such as the BBB Accredited Business Seal that helps resolve problems. Look for a logo or endorsement seal on the company web site. This is an indication, but not a guarantee, of the seller's reliability.
- Another way to check online sellers is to look for other consumers' comments. Some Internet auction sites post ratings of sellers based on comments by buyers. This information may give you some idea of how you will be treated, but beware of too many glowing stories that might have been placed by sellers themselves.
- Be wary of post office boxes and sellers in other countries. It may be difficult to find the seller to resolve a problem later.
- Check the total price. Make sure it includes all charges-- shipping, handling, insurance and taxes. Coupons and other discounts should be properly deducted.
- Make sure you are clear on what you are buying. Watch for words like "refurbished," "reconditioned," "close-out," or "discontinued."
- Give your credit card, debit card, or bank account number only if you are using that account to pay, never to prove your identity.
- Keep a record of your purchase. Keep track of what you ordered, when, the price, and how you paid (check, money order, charge, etc.). Also save any information the seller gives you such as product description, delivery date, cancellation policy, privacy policy, warranties, and order confirmation numbers.
- Keep track of your order. If it is late, see Shopping from Home - Your Rights.
If you have problems during a transaction, try to work them out directly with the seller, buyer or site operator. If that does not work, file a complaint with:
For more information about shopping online, please visit: