May 20, 2008

7 Rules You Must Follow When Ordering Furniture Online

by: Timothy Rudon

The World Wide Web is where you will find an excellent choice of furniture. Online store stock leading brands, antiques, as well as designer pieces. Since online stores do not have to worry about physical space they are able to showcase furniture and accessories from all over the world. And for the discerning shopper there are wonderful bargains to be had and furniture can be bought online for much less than the retail price.

Before you begin your quest for the perfect piece of furniture take a look at what you already have in place and get an approximate idea of what will go well with the existing pieces. If your home is filled with carved units and you get a bamboo settee because it looks great online your home will look definitely odd.

1. Log on to the internet and use a search engine to locate online stores. Use options like furniture online, or sofas, or table. Surf the websites and get a idea of the range and pricing.

2. Short list two or three websites and do a background search on them to make sure they are reliable online stores.

3. View the online catalogues and short list the pieces of furniture you like. If you have the time go to a local mall and see similar furniture physically.

4. Browse the websites for special offers, bargains, and discount schemes. Very often you may be able to get the piece you want at a very affordable price.

5. Be sure to determine details like shipping costs, delivery, guarantees, return policy, and transit policies.

6. Read through online interior guides and use tools like room planners. Most websites give expert advice and even offer to answer questions a customer may have. There are tools that will show you how the piece you want to purchase will fit in your room.

7. Always try and buy furniture from reputed manufactures. Avoid copies and duplicates even if they sell for far less.

Take advantage of free shipping offers or seasonal sales. If you are a regular online shopper make use of any discount coupons you may have. In case you are thinking of refurbishing your whole home look for easy payment schemes.

Be smart buy from an online furniture website that is a member of the Better Business Bureau. And log on to www.bbb.org and check whether the website selling furniture has a good reputation.

Once you have ordered ask the website to let you know when the truck will arrive and how long it will take for your order to reach you. When the furniture arrives make sure everything is in good order before signing for the delivery.

If you are a careful shopper you will have no problems.