If you’re like the many hardworking consumers who hate waiting in long checkout lines and burning your gas tank looking for the best deals on the products you want, then shopping online may be the best fit for you! Shopping online can save you the headache of fighting your way through the crowds of people at your favorite store and save you and your wallet the frustration of buying an expensive product. Ladies and gentlemen, instead of overspending on that fabulous skirt or being disappointed that you can’t find the right pair of shoes for your size or style, take a look at the world of online shopping. When shopping online, remember the top five things to keep in mind before confirming your payment.

1. Review shipping rates and delivery estimates

Most online retailers offer a standard flat-rate product shipping option, which is among the most popular budget options for consumers. Expedited shipping is usually available, but can often be an expensive option.

The estimated average standard delivery is five to fifteen business days. Expedited shipping averages 3-5 business days, but often twice the cost of standard shipping. Free shipping is available for certain products depending on the retailer. Always check shipping rates and delivery estimates to receive the best deal.

2. Review the return policy for each item.

Each online retailer has different return policies for their products. Before placing an order online, check with the online customer service department to review the item’s return policy regarding the deadline for returns and defective products.

3. Look for the product quality rating on the website.

Quality ratings are provided to help give mental pictures of the condition of the item. The most common terms used by online retailers are “new”, “used”, “like new”, “refurbished” and “fair”. Remember that each website will use these terms differently, so save yourself the impact of being “liked.” -new “or” refurbished “product when expecting a new one by checking the quality rating of the item before paying.

4. Acknowledge customer opinions

Customer reviews, as well as recommendations from friends or family, can influence your decision to buy an item online. Customer reviews are first-hand experiences from other online shoppers who have purchased the item you are considering. These reviews will tell you if the item arrives as described, how long it has lasted, how well it works, and more. If available, check customer reviews to get an idea of ​​the product and ensure your complete satisfaction with a purchase.

5. Rest assured that the product is what you want.

Product descriptions should be read carefully to clearly understand the item. Depending on what you decide to buy, always double check the model, sizes and colors before clicking to make the final purchase. So instead of anxiously waiting for that beautiful sofa to be delivered to you, only to find it doesn’t walk through your front door, check yourself in and read each description carefully.

Five steps to do it now:

Step 1: Find it. The first thing to do is “Google”. Search for the specific item you are looking for and consider adding the terms “best price” or “best value.”

Step 2: Compare. For products, start with Amazon.com, check out aggregators like Ebates.com and Fat Wallet, and search the daily deals sites for the products you want.

Step 3: Look for additional savings. Many websites have frequent coupon codes that you can get from aggregators like Retail Me Not or Chippmunk if they are not on Ebates.

Step 4: Search for your item on selected sales sites. There are many excellent sales websites based on the type of product that might have the same or similar products.

Step 5: Wait! If the need for a product is not urgent, wait a few days before buying it.

Step 6: Go ahead! Now you are ready to buy.

Whenever the day comes when you decide to make an online purchase, remember these five things to get the most out of your purchase because shopping online can be a great stress-free way to shop, save you time, and leave your wallet enchanted.