Our top five tips before rushing to the sales these holidays
As the end of year shopping period fast approaches, take a moment to follow our tips for a smooth shopping experience.
1. Do your research
Whether buying online or in store, do your research. Read product reviews, shop around and ensure that a sale really is a bargain.
Read the terms and conditions of your purchase and ensure you understand any fees you’ll be charged if you cancel or change your order.
Always make sure you ask for a receipt and keep it somewhere safe. Receipts fade quickly in the NT. It’s best to photograph them and store the digital image. Remember that you may need to retrieve the receipt several years later so labelling the image is important.
2. Know who you’re buying from when shopping online
When buying a product or service online, research the retailer you’re buying from. Only buy from websites that are well known and legitimate, have a good reputation and display clear processes for solving problems.
Always check the website is secure, and screenshot or save any documentation, receipts or confirmation emails.
Some businesses sell products that they don’t have in stock, instead they have another business supply you the product. When deciding who to buy from, ask the business whether it holds the stock itself.
3. Check delivery timeframes
Before you make a purchase, check delivery timeframes, including Christmas cut-off dates.
Be aware of possible delays and always give yourself plenty of time to ensure the gift arrives in time.
4. Be cautious with overseas websites
Overseas online businesses that provide goods or services directly to consumers in Australia must follow the Australian Consumer Law. However, you aren’t covered by the Australian Consumer Law if the business doesn’t directly offer their products and services in Australia.
If a business is overseas, you may have difficulty getting a refund, repair, or replacement for your product.
5. Understand your rights
If you don’t get what you paid for with a product or service, you have rights. This applies even when an item is on sale.
Always check the store’s returns policy. Refunds aren’t always an automatic right. Businesses don’t have to give you a refund if you change your mind, buy the wrong size, or buy the wrong colour. Some businesses still offer refunds in these situations. This is their choice to provide good customer service, and not a legal requirement.
You are entitled to a refund, repair or replacement if a consumer guarantee is not met. The remedy you’re entitled to will depend on whether the issue is major or minor.
Further information
If you do experience a problem with a product or service you buy, you should always talk to the business first. Most traders want to do the right thing and fix any problems for their customers.
If you are unable to resolve the problem, you can lodge a complaint with us. Please give one of our Fair Trading team members a call on 1800 019 319. They can discuss your issue and advise a way forward.