Shopping online is becoming more and more popular.

With the ease and convenience of purchasing items from the comfort of your own home, it’s no wonder over 2.14 billion individuals are shopping online around the globe.

But with all the benefits of online shopping, there are still a few things you should consider before making any online purchases.

Here are the seven most important things online shoppers should never overlook.

Check the Sites Security

One of the most important things to consider when shopping online is the security of the site you’re using.

Ensure that the site has a valid SSL certificate and that all your information will be encrypted before it’s sent.

You can usually tell if a site is secure if the URL starts with “HTTPS” instead of just “HTTP.”

Additionally, you should look for a padlock icon in the address bar. This indicates that the site is using additional security measures to protect your information.

Check the Return Policy

Before making any purchase, be sure to check the return policy of the site or seller. This way, if you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return it without any hassle.

Some sites or sellers may not accept returns, while others may charge a restocking fee.

Ensure you check the return policy before purchasing to avoid getting stuck with something you don’t want.

Take Your Time

When shopping online, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding a great deal. However, it’s essential to take your time and ensure that you’re getting what you want.

Don’t be afraid to take a few days to think about your purchase.

If you’re still interested in it, then go ahead and make the purchase. But if you’ve changed your mind, you can always walk away without regrets.

Research the Site and The Seller

Doing your research on both the site and the seller will help you avoid losing money online.

With losses due to cyber crimes amounting to $6.9 billion a year and an increasing number of people falling victim to online scams, it’s essential to be as informed as possible.

When researching the site, start by reading reviews from other customers. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews.

Try to get a general feel for what people are saying about the site or seller. If there are mostly negative reviews, you may want to consider shopping elsewhere.

You can also check to see if the site has been verified by a third party, such as McAfee or Norton. This adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Consider Shipping Costs

Unless a seller offers free shipping, you might have to bear additional shipping expenses on top of the price of the item itself.

Make sure to factor in how much shipping will cost when making your purchase. Many sites or sellers today offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money.

Some may also offer expedited shipping for an additional fee.

So, if you need the item quickly, paying the extra fee may be worth it. But if you can wait a few days, you may be able to save some money.

Be Wary Of Extra Charges

When shopping online, be wary of any extra charges that may be added at checkout. These could include taxes, handling or shipping fees, and more.

Check for these charges before you finalize your purchase so there are no surprises.

Additionally, if you’re paying with a credit card, there may be additional fees that your bank charges. Be sure to check with them beforehand, so you’re not caught off guard.

Take Advantage of Package-Receiving Services

The last thing you need is your amazon package stolen while you’re away on vacation.

If you’re worried about losing your packages, consider using a package-receiving service like Stowfly. With over 1000 partner stores worldwide, your online deliveries will be safe at their locations until you’re ready to pick them up.

This way, you don’t have to worry about your packages sitting outside your door for hours or even days, especially when traveling.