Online Shopping Guide

May 09, 2010, By Staff Writer 1 comment

Gone are the days of browsing down aisle after aisle in search of a product. Now, you can shop from the comforts of your own home without lifting more than a finger. Virtually anything—from clothing to books and electronics to jewelry—can be found online and purchased with the click of a mouse.

When you’re looking for an online bargain, check out these five sites.

Overstock.com

• The Basics: Think online outlet mall. From electronics to hand-made international crafts, Overstock sells an assortment of brand-name merchandise at great prices. Because the site buys excess goods from other retailers, the inventory is varied and always changing. In addition to their closeout prices and the ability to buy in bulk, shoppers can take advantage of Overstock Auctions, Overstock Cars and Overstock Real Estate.
• Return Policy: Most new and unopened items can be returned within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Opened or used items will receive a partial refund. Shoppers will be refunded the full cost of item and shipping if the return is a result of an Overstock error.
• Shipping Charges: Overstock offers shipping on all orders—regardless of destination, size and weight—for $2.95, excluding international sales.

Amazon.com

• The Basics: This Fortune 500 company totes more than 1.5 million seller accounts and tens of millions of online shoppers. Books, digital downloads, groceries and home décor. You name it; Amazon probably sells it. Shoppers take advantage of features such as new and used items, “1-Click Shopping,” and item recommendations based on purchases.
• Return Policy: Shoppers may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Partial refunds and exchanges are possible under certain conditions. Some items are nonrefundable.
• Shipping Charges: Shipping rates vary depending on product, number of items and shipments. Shoppers may receive free shipping on eligible Amazon products with a minimum $25 purchase of select products.

SmartBargains.com

• The Basics: SmartBargains.com can be “your personal bargain hunter.” The site takes advantage of canceled orders, overrun merchandise and manufacturer closeouts to give shoppers up to 70 percent off retail prices. The SMARTShoppers Club provides members access to exclusive bargains, new arrivals and clearances as well as a members-only customer service line.
• Return Policy: If you don’t love your purchase, send it back within 30 days of receiving it (date is specified on packing slip) for a refund. No refunds will be given past 30 days and exchanges are not available.
• Shipping Charges: Deliveries made within the continental U.S. have a $9.95 base rate per order. Members of the SMARTShoppers Club receive discounts on shipping costs, depending on item.

Buy.com

• The Basics: Buy.com works with suppliers to provide a variety of products from sporting goods to computer hardware. Its low price guarantee for select internet retailers—including Overstock and Amazon—ensures you the lowest price possible.
• Return Policy: Refunds are given for items returned within 30 days of leaving the Buy.com warehouse. Returned items must meet several criteria, such as original packaging.
• Shipping Charges: Shipping rates are automatically calculated when you place an item in your shopping cart. Select products are eligible for free shipping with orders of $25 or more.

PriceGrabber.com

• The Basics: PriceGrabber.com is an online shopping guide that allows users to compare information and prices of products and services. The site features products from large corporations such as Best Buy as well as local merchants and individuals, giving shoppers a wide variety of resources, sellers and products to choose from. A side-by-side comparison feature, total price calculations (tax and shipping included) and product rebate offerings make it easy for shoppers to find the best bargain for them. When you find a product you want at a price you like, PriceGrabber.com can link you to the seller directly.
• Returns: Information not available.
• Shipping: The site now offers free shipping on all products.

With the right site, you can pay less and buy more. Let the saving begin.