Have you had success with Internet purchases?

[JPatrick]

Quote:

Originally Posted by travelover I'm holding off. I'm pretty sure that this whole internet thing is a fad like CB radio.

Nah, it's not a passing fad.
I don't think Brian Williams would have invented it if it didn't have sustainability.

[Major Tom]

I don't really buy a lot of things, except for food and the occasional hobby purchase. Although I could have most of the food for me and my cats delivered, I enjoy going to the local Trader Joe's and the pet store, mixing with the locals, and getting a workout on my bicycle.

The only other things I buy on a fairly regular basis (apart from the occasional pack of toilet roll and tube of toothpaste) are vintage parts for my hobby of building radios. Pretty much the only viable regular sources are the online ones, and nearly all the vintage parts I buy online are top quality. I don't buy something unless there are good quality photos clearly showing the condition.

[target2019]

Ah, the Internets of us all.

As mentioned, purchasing for others and having it shipped is very convenient. Regular items are a click away.

I purchased a computer for a client yesterday. He gave me the cc details, I selected the system and emailed a link. HE approved, and I did the rest. He'll get email notifications for status, and will know what day the computer will be delivered to his office.

We usually purchase through the big companies, like Amazon, Dell, Staples, etc. Any problems are handled very quickly through customer support.

[ERD50]

Quote:

Originally Posted by MichaelB ... Seriously, one aspect of internet shopping that has been enormously helpful has been buying necessities for someone else who does not live nearby and cannot shop for herself.

Yes, it's been really nice to buy something on-line, and have it shipped directly to my Mom, or the kids at school.

-ERD50

[Midpack]

Yes, we've been buying online for 15 years, mostly online these days, and yet to have any issues - knock on wood.

Unless we're buying something perishable or something that MUST be tried on (e.g. shoes, but not clothes IME) - we're far more likely to buy online. Brick-n-mortar stores are far less efficient (more time, less inventory, crowds, driving/parking) for most things to me.

Tangent observation on online buying: I suspect we're more brand/store loyal than ever before as a result. In the old days when we bought exclusively from brick-n-mortar stores, we were probably more likely to look at unfamiliar brands/stores because we could assess the quality first hand. Now since we're buying with little more than a picture & brief description, we're much less likely to try new stuff - so we stick with brands/stores we already have good experiences with. I only buy one brand of running shoes, most of my clothes come from Lands End, LL Bean or REI, and my boating gear comes from a narrow group of brands - just examples.