Bargain Shopper Blog

By Simone Pucci

No lines, no pushy people and no time constraints are just a few of the advantages of buying online. Internet shopping has been revolutionised with more than 6.7 million Australians purchasing goods via the World Wide Web. In 2011, NAB’s Online Retail Sales Index recorded a 29 per cent growth in online spending, with 75 per cent of those sales coming from domestic retailers.

The affordability and speed of online shopping has made certain that nowadays consumers are willing to purchase anything and everything - even furniture! As this can be a daunting process, we have put together a hip-pocket friendly guide to purchasing online so that you avoid disappointment.

Research the seller

Only buy items from sellers with impeccable reputations. If you are perusing eBay, before clicking that ‘Buy it now’ link check the customer feedback section. Found just to the left of the page, this will give you an idea of how other consumers feel about the seller’s shipping costs, their speed and efficiency, as well as the quality of items. Try to avoid purchasing products from sellers with a substantial amount of negative feedback.

For other sites, have a quick browse and search for their ‘Customer Reviews’ or ‘Testimonials’ page. Online stores love to show that they have a long record of satisfied customers. In addition to giving you peace of mind, you may also find helpful tips from consumers just like yourself!

If you still have concerns, don’t be afraid to call the seller and speak to them directly. Ask them to email you more images of the product so that you can check for any imperfections and ascertain the quality of the item. If the seller is also located driving distance from you, be sure to ask if you can stop by and have a look at the product in person.

Shipping Costs

Additional shipping costs can also raise the cost of an item. You may find yourself spending an extra $200 just for shipping – making you pay the same amount as if you were to buy in store. Shipping fees are calculated by the taking into account the size and weight of an item as well as the distance that the product will travel.

It is because of all these circumstances that it is sometimes better for you to organise shipping the item. Companies such as TNT Express and AirRoad Direct Freight offer a wide range of domestic, special and international services. Contact the seller directly and discuss whether this is a viable option.

What to do when the wrong item is sent

Not only is it annoying when you receive an incorrect item, but it can cost you an arm and a leg to send the item back. Know your rights before purchasing and ensure that any mistake made by the seller that involves costs is the seller’s responsibility. It is best to get all the specifics in writing just in case you have any future issues with the product.

ALWAYS read the fine print

Just like any other contract or online transaction, it is important to thoroughly read all the terms and conditions. Make sure you understand everything before going ahead with the purchase to ensure that you are covered if anything goes wrong.

Our top online furniture shopping sites

Laura Ashley: www.laura-ashley.com.au

Interiors Online: www.interiorsonline.com.au

MyBid: http://mybid.com.au

Timeless Interiors: www.artdecofurnituredesigners.com.au

Dalani Home and Living: www.dalani.com.au

Happy shopping!

Image source: http://www.soybiobased.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/FurnitureLeechair.JPG

Do you have any online shopping tips? Post your comments below.

Written by Cara Jackson

A good relationship with a retail assistant is key to having a good shopping experience. Each retail assistant is employed to serve, help and maintain the appearance of the store. They understand their own roles and are equipped with plenty of useful product knowledge. It is the retail assistant that can point you in the direction of amazing sale items that you may have otherwise missed.

Here are a few of our tips on how to get the most (and maybe bag a bargain) from the person behind the counter.

Be polite, considerate and respectful

To get the best help and advice from a shop assistant you need to treat them with respect. It’s as simple as being polite and using your manners. A shopper who is nice to a sales assistant will get genuine help and advice and in many cases, the shop assistant will go above and beyond their role to ensure the customer has a good experience. Alternatively, a shopper who is rude and obnoxious will get the least amount of help while in the store.

Don’t be afraid to ask

The best way to be sale-savvy is to ask your shop assistant about the current sales that the store has running. They can point you in the right direction to ensure that you leave the store with the right product and no buyer’s remorse.

Give yourself plenty of time to shop

Entering a shop five minutes before closing and taking your time shopping can annoy sales assistants. By staying in a shop after closing you are forcing the assistant work later than required. Many have a tendency to tell customers anything just to make the sale a quick process. If you want genuine service, aim to shop well before closing time.

Minimise distractions

Avoid getting distracted by talking on your phone when being served. This is the time that shop assistants inform customers about special deals or sales that are running. Being distracted prevents them from voicing these offers, and you may miss out on something exciting.

Haggle

Don’t be afraid to politely ask for a discount when buying an expensive product. In many cases you will get one. Stores like JB Hi-Fi, Bunnings Warehouse and The Good Guys have sales assistants that will happily bargain with you over price.

However, be aware that many smaller stores don’t allow their workers to give further discounts to customers. If a shop assistant says that they are not allowed to give you a discount, it is unlikely that you will be able to change their mind.

Treating shop assistants with respect is a fantastic way to ensure you get bang for your buck. From being shown the perfect dress on the discount rack to being offered a VIP store membership, being courteous is a great way to grab a bargain.