Shopping Tips

We have been helping consumers shop smarter and save money since 2001. Here are some tips on how to get the best deal when you shop online.

Steps to Smarter Shopping:

1. Evaluate what you really need

   How many times have you bought a brand new product because the reviews were great, only to never use it? Be honest with yourself, and make sure you buying something that you are going to use.

2. Do your research

   Read forums and buying guides to get the latest professional and consumer advice on products. Remember everybody has a different opinion, so try to understand what is most important for you.

3. Compare products

   Use a comparison shopping engine that has detailed product specifications and parametric search to compare those product attributes that are most important to you.

4. Calculate the total price

   Enter your zip code to see prices after shipping and handling from multiple stores.

5. Price is only one factor

   Unfortunately, stores with the lowest prices may not always have the best customer service. Check a store's reputation and rating before you buy especially if it is an expensive or complicated purchase.

6. Order ahead of time

   Order early especially during the busy holiday season in order to make sure the product is available and can be sent to you in time. Generally you can pay extra to expedite the delivery of your order, but it can be costly!

7. Check return and warranty policies

   Before you buy, check the particular store's return and warranty policies. Return policies can vary widely, though many online stores offer 30-day money back guarantees.

8. Pay by credit card

   Online fraud is rarely a problem, but just to be safe, many credit cards offer complete purchase protection. Debit cards may not offer you the same protection.

9. Keep your receipt

   Save your online receipts in case you need to track your shipments or even return the item. You can even create a special email folder to store all of your online orders.

10. Share your experience

    Help others make smarter decisions by sharing your shopping experience. Write reviews of the products you bought and the stores where you bought them.

11. If you experience a problem, take action immediately:

    • Notify the store as soon as you become aware of the issue
    • If the merchant does not resolve the problem quickly and to your satisfaction, contact the Better Business Bureau (www.bbbonline.org), the Federal Trade Commission (http://www.ftc.gov/ftc/consumer.htm) or your state attorney general's office (www.naag.org).
    • Contact your credit card issuer immediately. They usually have resources available to help you mediate any dispute.
    • Contact Smarter.com. If you can't resolve a problem with a store listed on our site, we want to know about it and will try to help. Please e-mail us here.
    • Learn more about consumer laws and your rights as a shopper, by visiting the Federal Trade Commission's Web site at www.ftc.gov.

Thank you for your interest, and enjoy your online shopping experience.