Before buying, look for the following information to give you a better idea of whether there will be extra charges involved:
- Look for the word “import” or “imported” before buying online. That could mean that the company has to order the item for you from another location and you could be charged extra for the international shipping and custom charges.
- Is the item you’re purchasing in U.S. currency? If not, do a quick currency conversion using an online calculator to see what the price difference will be.
- High shipping charges. Sometimes a company will charge a flat rate for shipping which could be a money saver if you’re purchasing a big ticket item.
- Handling fees. Some online retailers charge handling fees or restocking fees on returns. Knowing these in advance can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Shopping online is easy and convenient, but it’s a good idea to make sure you’re really getting the deal you think you are.
