The Better Business Bureau has some tips for Black Friday shoppers.
In a news release, the Better Business Bureau noted that retail traffic is expected to be very high both in stores and online.
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is typically the busiest online and in-person shopping day of the year.
The National Retail Association is forecasting a 6% to 8% increase in holiday sales, which would be a record high, the release said.
“These are always emotional times, and decisions are often made hastily in order to snap up a lot of merchandise,” Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau, said in a release . “If a quick decision results in being scammed online, or buying an item that the shopper ultimately decides he doesn’t want, or dealing with a company that proves to be substandard, it can lead to buyer regret.”
The Better Business Bureau offers shoppers the following tips.
• To get the most out of Blac deals, start with a product listing and use sales flyers and prop=motions to identify which stores have the best prices. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.
• Make the most of Black Friday deals by starting with your listings and using sales flyers and prop=motions to identify which stores have the best prices. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.
• Read the fine print. Some retailers may offer additional discounts, but may exclude specific items, such as “doorbusters.” Beware of high discounts. The original price may be inflated until the item is marked as 75% off. Check price tags, terms and conditions.
• Plan your shopping spree. Make a map of the stores to visit and the items you want. Some sales are only for certain times of day. Some retailers limit the amount of deeply discounted items available.
• Sign up for email alerts. Many stores offer their best deals and exclusive coupons to email alert subscribers. You can unsubscribe after the holidays if you want.
• Know and provide return policy and warranty information to gift recipients. Rules vary by store.