How to avoid TV shopping traps
The NutriBullet, Nude by Nature… it’s hard to believe these wildly popular products started out as humble TV shopping ventures. Thanks to the advent of online shopping, many of us are turning away from television shopping deals, but many are still getting caught up in their webs.
Avid shoppers don’t have to avoid these deals altogether, but make sure you’re aware of these common TV shopping traps the next time you’re lured in by those flashy infomercials.
1. Don’t underestimate the cost
If you’ve ever seen an infomercial, you’ll agree it’s nearly impossible to figure out how much the product actually costs. Postage and handling, payment by instalments… it can all be very confusing. Make sure you always read the fine-print and add up all the costs involved before making the call.
2. Don’t be lured in by “first 50 callers”
This is a common marketing tactic used by TV shopping companies, but don’t be fooled – they are only saying this to get your sale.
3. Don’t get caught out by free trials
Part of how these companies makes their money is by preying on our laziness. Free trials always sound tempting, but remember that you have to pay for delivery and return postage. Given that postage usually hovers around the $14.95 mark, these “free trials” could end up costing you big time – especially if you fail to return the item by the deadline.
4. Always keep a record of your purchase
The problem with ordering products over the phone rather than online or in person is that it’s much harder to obtain a receipt. Always request a physical receipt to be mailed to you or give the company your email address so they can send you an electronic copy.
5. Shop around
We get it, part of the appeal of television shopping products is that they aren’t available in stores – but are you sure? Put on your investigative hat and hunt around online, you may be surprised to learn you can purchase the item somewhere else cheaper.
Have you ever bought anything from an infomercial? Did it live up to the hype? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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