Mailorder Information
I've been pretty happy so far with the mailorder companies I've ordered from. If you look at the hot deals section of techtalk, you can get a pretty good idea of which companies are good, bad and ugly. I use a credit debit card so it can't authorize more than what is in the account. I use it only for internet shopping.
Tips:
Look at the big picture. Always consider the total cost, that is cost of item, shipping and taxes, if applicable. Often the cheapest item is not the best value when shipping is added. Price matching can often save you separate shipping charges.
More is less. The more you order, the less you are paying for shipping on a per item basis. Consolidate your purchases before ordering.
The same is different. You may be getting your items shipped UPS ground but the shipping charge can range from 0.25 to over $25 on the SAME item from different mailorder companies. This is especially true for large items like bikes, frames, wheels and repair stands.
Buyer beware or at least wary. Descriptions don't necessarily match pictures. Find out as much as you can about the item, check manufacturer sites for information. Ask on the techtalk message boards, people there can be real helpful. There are incredible deals to be had, do your research. And keep a paper trail of your purchases, print out invoices and descriptions. Double check your credit card statements. Online shopping is still an infant technology, make sure you are not a victim of the growing pains.
Keep your cool. Remember, online companies are eager to compete for your business. And they are acutely aware that your dissatifaction can cost them alot of money. Sometimes mistakes will happen, although you may feel like ranting. You will likely make more progress in resolving your problem if you keep it calm and professional.
I've dealt personally with the following companies and the following comments are based on first hand experiences.
Airbomb.com:
Items poorly packed, above average shipping costs. Very good prices on sale items. Respond quickly to customer complaints and will bend over backwards to set things right.
Bike Nashbar
Items very well packed. Very good prices on some closeout items. Will price match on non sale items but may require several emails to customer service for credit.
Gear.com
Items very well packed. Excellent shipping rate, $0.25 per item. Poor selection but good prices on what is available. New items appear often and bargains sell out quickly. 10% addition discount coupons appear frequently. Large apparel selection.
Cambria Bikes
Confusing website. Nonsale items are not cheap, but large inventory and selection, especially frames. Large selection of onsale items all the time. Prices are cheaper if you shop over the phone.
Jensonusa.com
Will price match most items, sale and non sale prices. Often works out cheaper to purchase because you are only paying for one shipping charge. Orders are processed slow, especially for out of stock items. Special section often have real bargains. Average packing.
Planetoutdoors.com
Cheap shipping and online coupons can add up to big savings. Gear bucks for non sale items redeemable for future purchases. Limited selection. Very well packed.
Gearzone.com
On sale items and online coupons can add up to big savings. Limited selection, items sellout quickly. Average packing.
Supergo.com
On sale items are often good bargains. The best deals sell out quickly. Some items are in store shopping only even though you can see them online. Customer service never answers email, but if you phone them problems are resolved promptly. Average packing.