One of the busiest shopping days of the year returns this November.
Black Friday will once again send shoppers into an enthusiastic rush to get the best deals in-person and online, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) hopes to help consumers shop safely and smartly as we dive into the holiday season.
According to the latest report by the Retail Council of Canada (RCC), B.C. residents are ready to spend an average of $893 during their holiday shopping this year.
By shopping smart and safe, Black Friday and Cyber Monday lovers can stick to their budgets, protect their wallets, and get the best deals.
“Black Friday and Cyber Monday are big days of the year for consumers, and businesses too, but shoppers should be cautious diving into the first “too-good-to-be-true” deals they see,” said Simone Lis, BBB Mainland BC President and CEO, in a release.
“Knowing how to spot phony websites, impersonators, and shady businesses will help ensure shoppers get what they are looking for.”
Here are BBB’s top five shopping tips to use, whether you decide to shop in-person on Black Friday or online for Cyber Monday.
Work with trustworthy businesses
- The best way to avoid losing money during hard economic times is by making sure you're doing your research before you make your purchase. BBB.org is a vital resource to ensure you find the Sign of a Better Business and avoid falling for scams, fraud, and unprofessional business owners.
Know the return policies
- Whether you're shopping online or at physical stores, be aware that return policies can change during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Always read the fine print before making a purchase. Some items labeled as "final sale" or "closeout" may not be returnable, so familiarize yourself with the return or exchange policy for the specific item you plan to buy. If it's a gift, ensure you can get a gift receipt, but be certain it's returnable. Be cautious of seemingly massive percentage discounts, as the original prices may be inflated. Scrutinize price tags, terms, and conditions.
Price check and price match
- Do your due diligence by comparing prices from various online retailers. The best deal isn't always the real deal. Some stores offer price matches to secure your business. Make sure you know the average market price for an item.
Watch out for misleading or false advertising
- If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be vigilant for false advertising and double-check the website's legitimacy. Scammers create lookalike sites to deceive shoppers. Ensure the website has the correct business name spelling, legitimate contact information, and customer service numbers.
Use secure and traceable transaction methods
- When shopping online, it's safer to use a credit card, as most financial institutions will allow you to dispute charges with your credit card company if issues arise. Debit cards don't provide the same level of protection. Avoid making purchases with prepaid debit cards, e-transfers, or wiring money to online sellers.
For more information on holiday tips, you can visit BBB.org/Holiday.
