Indian consumers have become busier than ever and going to the market or store has become a dreaded deed for many. Many still prefer shops as they can bargain and get good deals there but for many bargaining is not their cup of tea.
With the plethora of online shopping sites launching day by day they are offering Lazy Lad's like us to become lazier. It's practical that when you get a great host of deals and offers and also get mind boggling amount of products under one website you are sure to be spoiled for choice. But there are some pointers one must look out for. .Here's a list of them:
Buying Discounted Products:
While there's always deals and offers available online, offline there are some certain seasons for it. Buying at a discount seems exciting but do check the MRP, the amount of discount provided and extra charges like VAT, Shipping etc. Most reputed E-Commerce stores list the MRP, the amount of discount and brand information too. Carefully check these before hitting order.
Huge Discounts on Big Brands:
Have you ever thought why a site would sell high class brand products at huge discounts? Ever seen the claims like 70% discount or 80% discount???? Don't get fooled by the claims and do these things to ensure that you are getting the value for your money!!!!
Check if the products you are purchasing are way too old!!!
Check with the online official site of the brand (Most big brands have their own site) to see that the products on offer are latest stocks or from the collection launched in 2001!!! It's natural to get discounts on clothing which is older than two or three seasons. But none of you want something ancient like a salwar made in 2004 or a shirt in 2001. It's better to keep a track of ongoing trends and browse the brand sites to know the shirt/dress you are buying on 60% discount is how much old.Also check expiration dates and Manufacturing dates of any products especially skincare, health and makeup items.
Shipping and Return Policies:
Here's the most commonly 'taken for granted' part in online shopping. Usually we are not sure of the quality, the original colors, the fittings etc. until it arrives. Unlike offline stores we don't have the option to see the fit, style and quality beforehand. So when you order some products online check the shipping and return policies. Most products like makeup and skincare items are not returnable whereas products like clothing, accessories, electronics and more can be exchanged or returned. While most big sites offer free reverse pickup or pay you for the return charges many don't. So before placing any order check if you get free returns and cash refunds. Cash refunds are important as getting virtual cash to use on the same site can be a problem because one will have to decide the product from their categories only. The sites offering cash refunds are best, if you ever return a product and want cash refunds they will be happy to do so.
Buying makeup skincare and food items online:
Buying Skincare and Makeup products can be tough online. Clothing and accessories can be returned or exchanged if they don't live up to your requirements but skincare and beauty products won't be taken back. Buying brand new products which you have not used before becomes a tough task and most of the time people have to keep their fingers crossed about the quality and effectiveness of the ordered product. The makeup items are trickier as the shades and sizes are very misleading in the descriptions in various sites. Blogs and their posts help to get a good idea of the product and shades but sometimes it still becomes tough. That's the sole reason many women don't purchase makeup and skincare items online. But for those who live in cities and towns that don't have all the big brand stalls, online shopping is the only way to get these products. If you are new and are trying to buy online makeup and skincare we suggest you study the product descriptions well, compare the shades and see bloggers who have reviewed it. If the matter is only about restocking your favorite products then online shops give good discounts and quick delivery
For men, they can also check their personal grooming and skincare items online. When women are very straight forward in buying skincare and makeup from stores men often shy away. Online shopping is great for them.
The only thing to remember is to check the minimum amount for free shipping. If you need just one item, ask your family members if they want anything too. Increase your order so that you get free shipping (It's frustrating to pay 50/75/100RS extra for shipping) and stock up. Also check the manufacturing dates and report to the store if you get any near expiring products.
Browse Coupon Sites and Cashback Sites:
Online stores often give out special coupons and vouchers for shopping. These coupons are available in many special sites like 'Coupondunia','couponpradesh', 'freekaamaal' 'coupondekho' ,'cuponation' etc. and some cash back sites too. These offer you extra savings.
Using Credit & Debit Cards, Net Banking; Opting for COD:
Another dilemma online buyers face is the choice of payment. While most sites offer credit, debit card transactions along with net banking many do not offer COD(Cash On Delivery). Some assign a separate amount for COD transactions. COD is where you have the liberality to pay when the package arrives. This helps keep your account and card details safe on the internet. While choosing COD is great don't use it unless you are sure to have someone present during the delivery days. Also using account details on the internet can be a security problem. Use only trusted sites with 256 SSL encrypted security system and which are verified by sites like 'Norton' . You can see these info at the bottom part of most E commerce sites. Also it's wise to use paypal account for international transactions. Always activate a valid internet security on your website for added security for your monetary transactions.
We Hope these few pointers will help you to shop more wisely and help you save a lot of Bucks
Love
Shabby G
Sayantani Ghosh Dastidarwww.beautifulasalways.comBTW I don't own the pics ..Here are the links of the pictures used here 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9