A few years ago, if you were looking to purchase a new pair of shoes, you went off to a department or shoe store; Looked around, tried a few pairs on and took your purchase home that day. These days, more and more people are deciding not to go into town, and buying their shoes online. Now, I believe this is partly because we've become more busy, but mostly because we now have access to brands, designers, styles and sizes that are not available to purchase in our local shoe stores. If you feel the need for a women's size 14, extra-narrow (or wide), red pump with a 3 inch high heel, chances are, you'll find it at one of many online shoe stores. However, not all online shoe stores are the same. So i have put together some advice, and things to look out for when buying shoes online.
1) Post and packaging Charges: The Added Cost when Buying Shoes Online.
Always find out what the P&P charges are before spending lots of time adding items to cart or shopping bag. You may think you're getting a bargain on all those shoes, but if P&P cost is too high, you may end up paying more than anticipated. Especially when ordering from a country other than the one you live in. Lots of online shoe shops offer free P&P, which is great! But do some price comparisons before you purchase. Sometimes, you'll get a better deal at an online shoe shop that charges a reasonable price for P&P, and still save £££.
2) Returns/Exchanges - Know the Policies in Advance.
Another major factor in buying shoes online, is being able to return or exchange them if there's something wrong with them, they don't fit, or just aren't the way you thought they would be. Most online shoe stores will have a returns policy, but DO NOT take it for granted. Make sure before putting in those card details, that you'll be able to return the unused shoes for any reason.
Ok, if you're taking a chance on a heavily discounted pair of shoes, then you might decide to buy without a return policy. But you still need to know what your rights for that sale are before buying.
Also, find out in advance if you'll have to pay the return postal fees, if you do decide to send the shoes back.
3) Want your Shoes quick? Check delivery Times.
If its an absolute must that you have a certain pair of shoes by "xx" date, I strongly advise buying them in person at an actual shoe shop. Or ordering them well in advance, and that there are other options available if your shoes don't arrive in time.
Again, find out the delivery policy of the online shoe shop you're buying from, and make sure the shoes your buying are actually in stock! If they are backordered, this could add weeks till you get them.
