When does 'In Stock' mean 'In Stock'?

June 15, 2009 - PRLog -- Online basics
Every online website should offer you an alternative – a real postal address and a working telephone number.  Beware of any that provide mobile numbers or ‘hotmail’ and other free web-based email addresses. If you are unsure, call them and talk to someone or send an email requesting information before placing an order.

Paying securely
There are many secure payment portals and you should look for their logos on the retailers website as proof that they are members and use that service. Some of the key ones are Geotrust, Sage Pay, Verified by Visa and Safe Buy. By using these logos on their site you can have confidence that the website offers secure payment.

If it seems too good to be true, it is
Of course, everyone wants to make a profit. If we didn't, why bother in business! And every customer is looking for a good price. It is possible for a win win situation: the retailer may be clearing discontinued lines to make way for the latest season stock or simply trying to sell off less popular models. But the customer should be aware that if it is really cheap there could be a catch: second or reconditioned goods must be declared as such; don't forget about the cost of delivery, this can bring the price up substantially; Beware of fakes!

Low cost hits service
Some companies have been known to offer items in stock when they do not have them in their warehouse. They do this to reduce stock-holding and working capital needs. They then accumulate orders, often taking credit or debit card payments from the customer, and wait to reach sufficient order quantities taking advantage of free delivery from the supplier.  How long it takes before the retailer has enough orders is not clear and therefore neither is the time it will take for the customer to get their goods. So how do you know how long you will have to wait out of pocket? A tell-tale sign is delivery time. Anything more than 2-3 days suggests they will be getting the stock from the supplier first. Call them, ask them, push them. Get answers before you commit or hand over your credit card.

The Long Distance Selling Directive
As a customer, you are protected by the Long Distance Selling Directive which offers:
- The right to receive clear information about goods and services before deciding to buy. Ensure you have all the information you need prior to placing an order.
- Confirmation of this information in writing.
- A cooling off period of seven working days in which the consumer can withdraw from the contract. You need not wait for the goods to be delivered to cancel. It is your right to cancel for any reason in the first 7 days. A refund must be given within 30 days of cancellation.
- Protection from credit card fraud.
Any website that does not comply with these regulations is breaking the law.

Check the forums
Parents are keen to share their experiences.  Lively baby web forums can be useful guides.  Try Mumsnet.com, Thinkbaby.co.uk and Askamum.co.uk for retailer recommendations, product reviews, buying guides and discount offers plus discussion forums of course!

As an online retailer myself, I am keen to encourage customers to continue to shop online and not be scared off by the risks. The vast majority of retailers are honest, helpful and offer great customer service so enjoy your shopping from home!

For a limited period, http://www.BabyGoShop.co.uk is offering a free travel toy with every 2 items purchased from their Top 10 Baby Travel Essentials.

For great online shopping consumer advise visit http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/after_you_buy/online_sho...

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