Purchasing anything online carries risks but those risks can increase significantly when buying through an online auction. Add to the fact that the seller is from a different country and you may not always get what you pay for. As such, practicing a healthy dose of buyer skepticism is always recommended when purchasing anything through an Internet auction. Here are eight tips to follow to ensure you minimize your risks while purchasing from an international seller on an online auction.
Check Seller Feedback – Most online feedback sites allow buyers to give ratings and provide feedback after they have purchased from a seller. Before you make your own purchase, check the seller feedback to ensure they are reputable and have not had any issues with buyers in the past. Be sure to read the actual reviews and not just peruse the ratings to get a clear picture of the seller.
Read the Return Policy – As mandated by most auction websites, the seller should have a clearly stated return policy with details on whether or not they accept returns and or exchanges. Know the policies before you bid on an item.
Research Comparison Items – Purchasing an item sight unseen is always a risky business so if possible, see if you can research similar items and make sure what you the seller is offering is the actual item you want.
Know Shipping Rates – International shipping rates can be exorbitant as it is so before bidding, make sure you know the seller’s particular shipping rates. Many international sellers will inflate their shipping rates as a way to make more profits.
Understand How the Currency Converts – Some international sellers will post pricing in their own local currency. If that’s the case, make sure you know how the amount will transfer into US dollars before you bid so you know how much you will be paying.
Use a Secure Payment Method – Never send cash or a wire transfer as international payment to a global seller; they can easily take the money without sending the item you ordered and there is virtually no way to track it. Pay with a more secure payment method that can be tracked, such as credit card.
When purchasing through an online auction from an international seller, the best rule of the thumb to follow is to trust your instincts; if something appears to be too good to be true, it probably is.
By: TheSkiBug
source http://www.articledashboard.com
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