In 2016, Black Friday sales reached more than $3 billion in revenue, according to a study conducted by Adobe. Retailers most likely will want to repeat or exceed last year’s sales by offering deals during this year’s rush.
Better Business Bureau advises consumers to arm themselves with information, a budget and the ability to resist pressure to buy items they do not want or need. One-day deals and specials have become the norm rather than the exception, whether shopping online or in a store. If you have researched an item ahead of time, you will be better able to evaluate deals.
When buying gifts, it is important to obtain and keep receipts for all purchases in case the recipient needs to return an item. Many stores will provide gift receipts upon request, which allow returns but do not show the recipient how much you paid for an item.
Be sure to check return and refund policies before you buy. Although some stores relax their return policies during the holiday season, others may require that returns be made within a few days of purchase. Some only allow returns if a product is defective while others may give store credit instead of cash refunds.
If a gift needs to be shipped, ask about cost and when the item will arrive. In some cases, you may save time and money by buying from a store’s website.
While online shopping can be a way to avoid crowded stores, shoppers need to be careful of the sites they patronize. When shopping online, be sure to:
1. Protect your personal information. Check to see how your information may be used online. When shopping at stores, keep your card out of sight and make sure you get it back safely in your wallet before you leave the store.
2. Check the site’s security settings and privacy policy. If the site is secure, its address should start with https://.
3. Know the company’s refund and return policies. Are there restocking fees? Do you have to pay shipping costs on returns?
4. Do not rely on pictures of a product. Read the description and check model numbers, if applicable.
5. Be cautious of free or very low-price offers. Often, free offers are followed by an open-ended enrollment in a program that automatically bills your credit card account. Before ordering anything online, make sure you click on and read all terms and conditions.
6. Pay with a credit card. If you suspect fraud or do not receive your order, you can challenge the charge. It is also possible to dispute charges to your card.
7. Obtain a tracking number for shipments. If you need the product before the holidays, find out when the seller intends to ship it and if possible, how it will be shipped.
8. Print out the order or save it on your computer. Make sure you have the documentation page for online orders, and save it until the order arrives.
9. Be aware of phishing. Do not respond to emails that ask for your credit card, bank account number or other personal information. Legitimate businesses do not send emails claiming there is a problem with an order or account to lure you into revealing financial information. Call the company or find the customer service form on the company website to confirm any problem.
Before patronizing a store or website, check a company’s BBB Business Profile online at bbb.org or call 888-996-3887 toll-free.
Sean Spence is the Mid-Missouri regional director for Better Business Bureau.