Good Tips For Shopping Online

Do we ever feel like we know just enough about online shopping to be dangerous? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from online shopping experts.

Is everything making sense so far? If not, I'm sure that with just a little more reading, all the facts will fall into place.

Online shopping has never been more popular. The reasons are easy to see--buying online saves time and money. Before you hit the virtual stores, review our tips:

Always use a secure Internet connection when making a purchase.
Reputable sites use technologies such as SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or SET (Secure Electronic Transmission) that encrypt data during transmission.

You can tell if this technology is in use when the lock icon at the bottom of your web browser window is closed. In no case should you send your credit card number by e-mail. Another way is to check the address of the site you are accessing; it should begin with "https".

Shop with businesses you already know and trust.
Many retailers now offer online shopping. One advantage is that some let you return merchandise to their stores, instead of shipping it back. If you want to make a purchase from a store you haven't heard of before, do some research. Start with the Better Business Bureau Online. Also, make sure the site lists a physical address, not just a post office box. Finally, check to see if it displays seals from consumer protection organizations such as the previously mentioned Better Business Bureau Online and TRUSTe.

You can also see what other shoppers have to say about a particular merchant by checking reviews at Bizrate and Epinions.

Look for coupons and other discounts.
Many online merchants offer rebates that can save you a bundle of money. To receive the discount, typically you enter the coupon code in the order form. It's then deducted from the total purchase price. Start your bargain hunting at Learn the Net Coupons.

For travelers, many airline sites offer weekly specials and e-fares. To keep informed of these discounts, sign up for newsletters at their websites.

Comparison shop.
So-called shopping bots compare prices for products across dozens of websites. You'd be amazed at the range of prices you'll find. Start with this trio:

* PriceRunner

* PriceGrabber.com

* Shopzilla

* Smarter.com

Be skeptical.
Be wary of deals that appear too good to be true. They probably are. If you have suspicions, call the merchant and ask those tough questions. No phone number listed on the site? Then take your business somewhere else.

Check the shipping costs.
Shipping, especially for next day delivery, could make the total purchase price more than what you would pay in a retail store. At one time, many sites offered free shipping as a way to attract customers. While those days are over except during the holidays, some sites still offer free or discounted shipping for select items and purchases over a certain amount.

Protect private information.
All reputable sites should post a privacy policy that explains what they do with customer information. Take a few minutes to review it. If you don't agree with the policy--some sites sell data to third parties--don't shop at the site. Even if you have no objections, don't provide unnecessary information by filling out the optional fields in the order form.

Review the return and refund policies.
How can you return unwanted merchandise? How long do you have? Will you receive a full refund? Who pays for return shipping? An e-tailer should provide answers. If not, call the merchant before you buy.

Pay with plastic.
In the U.S.,credit cards offer the same consumer protection whether shopping online or offline--you are liable only for US $50 if your card is used fraudulently. You can also challenge charges and withhold payment in the event of a dispute with a merchant.

An alternative payment option, particularly for buying from auction sites, is setting up an account with PayPal. You electronically transfer money from your bank account into your PayPal account, then use it to pay merchants.

Print a copy of your order for your records.
After you submit an order, you will get a screen with details of the transaction. Sometimes there is a link to a web page where you can check the delivery status. You may also receive an e-mail confirmation.

Knowing enough about online shopping to make solid, informed choices cuts down on the fear factor. If we apply what we have just learned about online shopping,we should have nothing to worry about.