7 Tips To Make Your Online Furniture Purchase More Rewarding
Start writing a post
Adulting

7 Tips To Make Your Online Furniture Purchase More Rewarding

For these stylish products, you need more specifics.

53
7 Tips To Make Your Online Furniture Purchase More Rewarding
Photo by Di_An_h on Unsplash

In our connected world, online transactions are a big part of the pie. We can order anything from groceries to houses and more through a few clicks and taps. Of course, it doesn't mean that the buyer no longer needs to complete their due diligence.

Each product or niche has its specifics. Gadgets have specific and uniform features, but furniture can't be as specific. This holds especially true when you're buying more elegant products like vintage furniture. For these stylish products, you need more specifics. Let's see a few tips that make the purchase worth your while.

1. Check shipping and return policy

Start with checking the shipping cost. Shipping furniture can be expensive, in some cases, prohibitively so. Thoroughly check the shipping costs and policy and keep an eye every step of the way.

Many websites stick to the policy of free shipping. Now, that's a pretty good deal. It's also something to remember when you compare prices on different sites. Never downplay shipping and taxes!

The return policy is similarly related. Websites that have convoluted return policies, charge restocking fees or don't allow returns aren't focused on consumer interests. On the other hand, retailers with a clear policy are great. But, how does a customer ship furniture? Some retailers offer assistance, and that is awesome.

2. Specialization

Whether your choice is baroque, modern, conventional vintage or anything else, look for a site that has a specialization. Keep in mind, specialization isn't necessarily exclusivity. It's knowing what you're selling, the trends and consumer expectations.

These stores not only carry the furniture, but they also offer a better approach. Some may also include related accessories, tips and decor suggestions. Finding a site that goes with your style and taste can make things easier.

3. Look at the photos

Photographs are a great way to understand the product's overall looks and feel. Often, you'll be able to see the furniture from different angles, see it in a decorated room and get a general sense of how it will look. However, photos don't always tell the truth.

Arrangements in decor for photography are often made in a way that accentuates each piece. It isn't a bad thing, but it won't necessarily reflect how the piece will look in your home. This may not even be a good way to confirm product dimensions.

That's why you always read the product description to see the exact specifics of the product. The dimensions, material, finish, all become clear when you consider the description. Keep an open mind, and don't expect the product to look exactly like the pictures. Things as simple as your screen settings and home lighting can make a product look different at home.

4. Read the reviews

What do other consumers have to say about the product and the site? Reading customer reviews on the product you're considering and the store can give you a good insight. This includes not just the usability of the furniture but also the reliability of the seller.

Common problems and seller behavior become apparent in reviews, as does the possibility of the furniture being exactly up to expectations. Where possible, look for third-party reviews as well, and not just those on the shopping site's pages.

5. Compare pricing and look for sales

Buying online means the freedom to check prices across different sellers and retailers. You can browse several sites, search a specific product through its name and do your research. This makes it easier to find the best deal on the product you're looking for, and often, you can save a lot of money.

When you compare prices, remember to look at totals. The total price you consider must include taxes, shipping, handling and any miscellaneous fees. What matters is not the list price, but what you have to pay.

It's also a good idea to look (or even wait) for sales. Many sale seasons are easily predictable. So, if one's around the corner, see if you can wait 'till a sale goes live. It's also a good idea to search for coupons to get better deals.

6. Check dimensions

Before you buy furniture, go through the dimensions carefully. Whether you're buying industrial furniture, vintage furniture or anything else, keep the dimensions in mind. Simple visualizing won't do. Use a measuring tape to check exact dimensions.

7. Furniture Assembly

Is the furniture being shipped pre-assembled or will it be assembled upon delivery? You'll also have to check on assembly support. For most furniture items, white glove delivery is the way to go. This means they will deliver the furniture to your home, unpack, assemble and set it up where you want it.

However, this can be expensive. Some sites offer doorstep delivery (but no assembly). This might work for smaller, simpler items. But, home delivery and setup/assembly is the way to go for larger items. Of course, if the furniture is being delivered pre-assembled, you won't have to worry about all these things.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

58911
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

38030
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

959543
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

195711
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments