Today’s consumer is used to buying things online. With just a few clicks, you can have anything from a spatula to a car customized, ordered and on its way to your door. We have become an instant gratification society where waiting in lines is unacceptable. Whether you are a regular online shopper or you prefer to hit the mall, this list of pros and cons may surprise you.
Online Shopping Advantages
Convenience
There are countless “pros” when it comes to buying what you need online with convenience being at the top of the list. That is usually why we choose online, right? Who doesn’t want to sit on the couch in their sweats and buy clothes, groceries or even automobiles? The ability to shop when you want is a big perk. You avoid lines and can shop when it is convenient for you without concern about when the store opens or closes.
Selection
Another big bonus of online shopping is the selection. Online you are able to choose from a wide range of products and aren’t limited by what is in stock at the location closest to you. Some stores even offer products that are only available online. This gives you an advantage over the consumer who still does in-store purchasing. If you think about it, online retail space is endless and comes at a much lower price than brick and mortar shops. It just makes sense that retailers would put all their products online for their customer’s convenience.
It’s About Time
I don’t know about you, but I hate to be pressured. Whether they are trying to get me to make a quick decision or they are trying to upsell me, I’m not a fan. I like to take my time. I want to put items in my online cart and then go back and delete what I don’t like. It’s a leisurely activity not a marathon shopping spree. I like to take even more time if the purchase is significant, such as insurance or real estate. You weren’t aware that you can buy your insurance online? It’s true! Thanks to companies like se2, I can take my time and compare insurance providers and policies from the comfort of my own home. I can write down all of my questions and make sure I get the answers I need without being pressured by a lurking salesman.
Additionally, I can save time by shopping online. Real estate shopping is far easier and less time-consuming thanks to the internet. Thanks to video and picture tours I can see the inside of a home clear across town or in another state and country without leaving my kitchen table. Talk about saving time.
Online Shopping Disadvantages
Incorrect Sizing
One big disadvantage of online shopping is not knowing which size will fit the best. This can be extremely frustrating when time is a factor. If you order a dress or a new pair of slacks for an upcoming event only to find the size you ordered is all wrong, you may be out of luck if time isn’t on your side. If you are between shoe sizes, you may end up needing to buy both the 71/2 and the 8 to see which one fits you better. Regardless of what you decide you are left having to return the other pair. Which leads us to our next disadvantage: shipping fees.
Shipping Fees
If you have to return an online purchase there is a pretty good chance it is going to cost you. Oftentimes, stores may offer free shipping to get the package to you but return shipping will be on you and it can get pricey depending on the size and weight of the product. It doesn’t hurt to reach out to the customer service department to see if they can work with you. If you are lucky, you’ll work with someone like se2 company, Amazon or Zappos, where the customer comes first.
