Online shopping is a massive market in 2021, one that the coronavirus pandemic has only spurred on. More and more people are making the switch from traditional to online shopping thanks to the convenience and ease with which they can order and receive products.

It is important to support independent retailers as they struggle to compete with big brand giants in an ever more competitive market. Shopping with independent retailers can ensure that you receive better quality service, products and experience. It can also help to reduce your impact on the environment, as smaller, independent businesses are less likely to engage in harmful practices such as fast fashion.

Here are some of the key ways you can select trustworthy, independent retailers online.

Do Research To Ensure They’re Legitimate

It is a good idea to do your research before you spend any money with an online retailer. You will want to be 100% certain the business and website is legitimate before you buy. You can check out online reviews to see other customers experiences and look the company up using directories like Companies House.

Ensure They Provide Good Customer Service

You should ascertain the level of customer service you are likely to receive from a business. You can do this by checking out their website to see how you can get in touch with them. Ensure that there is an email address and telephone number that you can use to get help if you need it.

Choose Businesses That Listen To Their Customers

A business that is reactive to customer feedback is worth spending your hard-earned cash with. It is essential to choose a company that has the customer’s best interests at heart and is willing to go the extra mile. An excellent example of this is Luella Fashion, who provide high-quality cashmere and luxury clothing at affordable prices. Knowing that sustainability is crucial and something that shoppers today look for, they ensure every part of their process is eco-friendly.

Understand The Business’s Returns Policy

A good returns policy is crucial when buying online. Sometimes you may order an item that isn’t quite as you would expect from the images or doesn’t fit correctly, and it is vital to be able to return these easily and with minimal cost. Look out for retailers that offer free returns in particular and a wide range of return carrier options to choose from.

Select A Retailer With Multiple Payment Options

The way you pay online can make a big difference to the safety of your money and the ease of transactions. It is often best to look for an independent business that accepts payments by credit as well as debit card and offer secure payment options like PayPal.

Look Up Reviews Online

As mentioned above, online reviews can help you get a feel for how your overall experience will be. It is best to be cautious when trusting what you read online, whether good or bad. Look for reviews that describe the ease of returns, the customer service levels and the quality of products received. Review sites such as Trustpilot can be particularly beneficial to get an overview of a company.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.