Buying furniture online

Prices are often cheaper online, and the convenience of shopping from home is hard to beat, so get clicking!

Buying from auction sites
You can save money by buying through sites such as www.ebay.co.uk, www.loot.com or www.preloved.co.uk. Be sure you know what you're buying and be wary of rogue traders who make up accounts and post positive comments about themselves. Ask the seller as many questions as possible about the item you are buying to ensure they are genuine, and always use Paypal to pay for the product so you have Buyer Protection cover.

High-street names online
Price-comparison sites can help you find good deals - try www.dealtime.co.uk or www.pricerunner.co.uk. However, watch out for high delivery charges and check whether the price includes VAT.



Delivery times
Check delivery times and costs before you order. Usually the cost of the delivery won't be refunded if the item is returned, so always read the small print and print out the receipt.

When things go wrong
Always check the returns policy before you buy. The law states you have seven working days to cancel a contract for goods ordered online. However, this doesn't include made-to-order goods.



Security matters
Ensure the website is secure. The web address of the payment page should start https:// and a small padlock should appear in the bottom of your screen when you are entering details. Also see if the company has a privacy statement that says what it will do with your personal details, and jot down its address and phone number.

Paying for goods online
If the goods cost over £100 and under £30,000, and you pay by credit card, you will be protected by the Consumer Credit Act. This states that the credit card company is liable for any defects. If a problem arises, you can claim from the trader or from the credit card company.

Further information

www.johnlewis.com offers good advice on buying furniture online

www.adviceguide.org.uk can answer frequently asked questions and offer helpful advice if things go wrong

www.consumerdirect.gov.uk provides clear, practical consumer advice for buying goods online

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