6 things to know before shopping online

Do you ever wish shopping could be as easy as pushing a button? It can with online shopping. There's no fighting for parking spaces and the stores are open 24-7. But before you click on Buy Now, arm yourself with a little know-how.

1. Deal only with websites you trust.
Shop with well-known, reputable companies. Never shop on a site you're unsure of -- especially one fraught with pop-up windows and spelling mistakes.

2. Start early.
Many websites offer several shipping options. The speediest services cost the most. If you can wait a couple of weeks or more for your order, you'll minimize shipping costs.

3. Compare prices on similar products.
Open multiple browser windows to many company websites, so you can see them all at once. Compare shipping fees and exchange policies. Use sites such as epinions.com and reviews.cnet.com for unbiased product reviews.

4. Get organized before you shop.
Instead of placing two or three orders at different times from the same website, plan ahead and combine everything you want in one order. You'll save on the shipping costs; some companies will waive shipping fees altogether for purchases over a minimum amount.

5. Ask how your order will be shipped.
Some shipping methods will require you to be home to receive it -- unless Fido can forge your signature. Consider shipping to your office or to a friendly neighbour. Hang on to those confirmation numbers: you may need them for tracking a no-show shipment.

6. If shopping for presents, consider having gifts sent directly to the recipients.
You'll save the cost and aggravation of redirecting your gifts; some companies will even wrap them for you! The downside is that you won't be able to inspect the product first, or include a personal note.