I think it’s safe to say, that online shopping is heaven-sent for us lazy girls. But as we were going through the most frequently asked questions polls on the POPxo app, we found that the most common query was ‘is online shopping safe?’ As an e-Commerce website, we strongly recommend online shopping for its ease, convenience and diverse choice of style. And as long as you follow the checklist we’ve created, you’re as safe as can be. Here are 10 online shopping commandments we swear by, and every fashionista like you must follow too:
1. Thou Shalt Not Buy The First Thing You See Online
Do your research by also searching for it on other sites. Price differences can be substantial on different sites, and you don’t want to miss a good deal, do you?. For example, the same product on Amazon might be available at a lower price compared to Flipkart.
2. Thou Shalt Read About The Exchange/Refund Policy
Each online shopping site has its own refund or exchange policy. So, if you’re not sure about sizing, make sure they do offer returns or exchange. Check the validity of availing a return/exchange. For instance, Myntra has a 30-day return and exchange policy valid within 30 days of receipt of the item.
3. Remember To Always Refer To The Size Chart
If your exact size is not available or your size doesn’t match the size chart of the brand, go for a size bigger than yours. Better be safe than sorry!
4. Thou Shalt Always Check Reviews Before Placing An Order
When ordering from a site for the first time, always check reviews on Google about the quality, delivery and return policy they provide. Some websites, like Shein, have reviews from existing customers on each product page. It couldn’t get easier, amirite?
5. Honour The Indian Innovation Of COD, At Least On Your First Purchase
Cash On Delivery or COD is the safest option, especially when it’s your first time shopping at a particular website. You don’t know if the product is genuine or how long the delivery will actually take. Like, when the estimated time is something like “between 3-21 days”, the bracket is too broad for you to guess when you’d get your package.
6. Thou Shalt Never Save Credit/Debit Cards For Faster Payments
If your account gets hacked, your personal information would be at a great risk! It’s better to use COD or e-payment portals like PayTM, Mobikwik and PayPal if you don’t fully understand how internet banking works. This way you can be covered if you never receive your product or if it’s fake. Not all banks allow refunds.
7. Thou Shalt Know Your Payment Gateway
Since you are directed to your bank site from the shopping website, there are chances of your personal or account details being hacked, if the payment gateway is not safe. Examples of safe payment gateways are HDFC Bank, PayTM, PayU money and CC Avenue.
8. Thou Shalt Not Reload Confirmation Pages That Fail To Load
Whether it’s online shopping or e-bills of any kind, never, I repeat, never reload the confirmation page while your payment is being processed. A site may accidentally charge you multiple times if you keep trying to reload. Instead, contact the retailer directly to know if your order went through or not.
9. Thou Shalt Check For Promotional Or Discount Codes
The GST, shipping charges, and (in case of international sites) import duties or taxes are not included in your cart value. Which brings the total up to a shocking price you could avoid paying if you have a better deal. So, instead of rushing things, first take your time to look for discounts and vouchers online. For instance, if you’re an ASOS shopper, try looking ‘ASOS discount code’ up on Google. It may not always work but there’s no harm in trying.
Also, find out the 10 Things In Our Cart Waiting For The Sale Season!
10. And Lastly, Thou Shalt Always Check The Product Information
Many of us forget to check product details like fabric composition, wash instructions and type of fit. Always check the material, especially if a certain fabric (an ‘eeky’ one like polyester) or a blend doesn’t suit you.
