One of the best things about shopping online is that the internet is always open for business. So, if you think 10pm is the perfect time to browse for a new console table, we should definitely be friends. Having thousands of items at your fingertips is great, but it is also totally natural to be nervous about making a big furniture purchase without an in-person test drive. Here are six things to do before you click buy for a regret-free and stress-free purchase.
Request Swatches
Colors can look very different on a computer screen versus in real life. Many online retailers offer fabric swatches you can order (sometimes for free) so you can touch the fabric, feel the texture, and see the color where it will live. It is an extra step, but well worth it.
Read the Reviews
See what customers think of their recent furniture purchase and take a look at any reviews that include customer-uploaded photos. Reviews can not only give you a better idea of the furniture piece you are considering, but also what it is like ordering from the company. Stores that respond to reviews and address other customer concerns are more likely to engage with you should the need arise.
Measure & Mock It Up
Every one knows the adage about measuring twice, but we recommend taking it a step further. To get a true idea of how a piece of furniture will fit in your space, tape out the dimensions on your floor or cut a piece of cardboard to the appropriate size to move around the room. This way you can get a feel for what the item will feel like in a room and how you will move around it in daily living. Also, don’t forget to measure doorways, hallways, or stairs to make sure the piece of furniture can make it into the desired spot.
Check If Assembly is Required
Don’t let it catch you by surprise if your furniture order arrives in multiple boxes with assembly instructions enclosed. Before you order, know what, if any, work is required and what tools are needed for assembly so you are properly prepared.
Calculate Delivery Fees
Remember to factor delivery fees into your budget. Larger, heavier furniture items sometimes have an added fee beyond a company’s standard shipping costs. Also, check to see how your purchase will be delivered. Will it be placed inside your home in the room of your choice or simply left at your front doorstep?
View the Return Policy
Before you buy, read the fine print! Hopefully, you will love what buy, but it is important to know if you can return a piece of furniture and the costs involved with returning it. Some companies require customers to pay for return shipping; others have re-stocking fees.
And one final bonus tip for you to close! If you are looking for a deal on your online furniture purchase, pay attention to holiday weekends. Furniture often goes on sale for holidays like President’s Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. You can even sign up for the store’s email list so sale alerts come directly to your inbox.
