Christmas online shopping in SA - What you need to know

Christmas online shopping in SA – What you need to know
Image via Ariel Skelley/Getty images

Christmas online shopping in SA: What you need to know

‘Tis the season to go online shopping for Christmas! Here’s what you need to know before you proceed to checkout…

Christmas online shopping in SA - What you need to know

Christmas online shopping in SA – What you need to know
Image via Ariel Skelley/Getty images

If you hate standing in long queues, braving crowds of shoppers, or even leaving home, then online shopping is surely for you.

And with Christmas literally around the corner, it makes sense to make all your purchases with the click of a mouse.

But before your click on checkout, take a look at these guidelines…

LOCAL VS ABROAD ONLINE SHOPPING

Shopping abroad can yield a wider variety of results for online shoppers.

However many cons include a longer shipping time frame, expensive delivery options and having to pay customs. Then there is also the chance that your goods can be held up at customs before they are released to you.

In comparison, shopping locally means a quicker turnaround time, cheaper shipping and most often supporting small and medium businesses.

CONVENIENT AND SAFE

For obvious reasons, shopping online is hassle-free in comparison to physically going into a store to make a purchase.

It’s convenient, quick and relatively easy. If you’re concerned about the safety of online shopping, check out our secure and seamless online shipping tips here.

24/7 SHOPPING

Unlike physical stores which are bound by business trading hours, online stores operate 24/7.

In addition, they also quickly source stock and deliver stock from a warehouse, unlike physical stores who have to wait for stock to be replenished.

FESTIVE SEASON DELIVERIES

Whilst there is usually a small delay in shipping during peak periods, many online retailers have increased their manpower over the festive season. This assists in;

  • A quicker turnaround time
  • Deliveries during the weekend
  • Options to upgrade to express delivery

ONLINE SHOPPING DEADLINES

If you’re hoping to get your online shopping orders ahead of Christmas, take note of the following;

  • Pay attention to the small print – is the stock locally available or is it sourced abroad?
  • Delivery guidelines – most retailers give you an estimated date when to expect your parcel
  • If there are delivery delays, your online retailer will let you know ahead of making payment.

Unless otherwise stated, for many retailers the week prior to Christmas (17- 20 December 2021) is usually the deadline to ensure your goods arrive in time to be popped under the Christmas tree.