Caithness Map :: Links to Site Map Great value Unlimited Broadband from an award winning provider  

 

12 Tips for Christmas Shoppers

16th December 2007

Trading Standards Officers of The Highland Council have provided 12 handy tips to help the public avoid the pitfalls of Christmas shopping. They are: -

1. Avoid impulse buying by making a list of everyone you wish to buy for and how much you are going to spend on each person. Keep to this list and you are less likely to overspend.

2. Start shopping as early as possible to take advantage of pre-Christmas sales and the widest choice. Shopping hours too may vary from normal times so take advantage of this and avoid getting flustered. If some shops open early or stay open late consider visiting them at these times to avoid queues where possible.

3. Always shop around. Not only on the high street but on the internet too. Traders can and do charge different prices for the same items. There is nothing wrong in this practice as it is legal.

4. Be careful when buying from markets and/or car boot sales. The goods might look okay and you may think you are getting a bargain. However you could find you have bought dodgy or counterfeit goods. Look out for counterfeit goods such as, clothing, CDs, computer games, DVDs this Christmas, which will be of poor quality and not gratefully received as a gift. Also beware of buying cosmetics such as perfumes, aftershaves and make-up, which could harm the user if they do not meet safety standards for use, causing painful rashes or reactions.

5. When internet shopping protect yourself against on-line fraud. Make sure you buy from a secure site. Avoid sending your credit card details by email or over the phone, unless you are sure you know you are dealing with a reputable firm.

6. If you buy on-line you will have rights relating to distance selling in most cases. (One of the exceptions being however, perishable goods, such as flower and food items). Check out your online shopping rights BEFORE you buy by logging on to Consumer Direct Scotland. www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/

7. If buying on the high street, check out the shop~s policy on returning goods. You do not have an automatic right to a refund if you change your mind about the goods you have bought. This is legal. Some shops offer refunds on unsuitable goods while others just offer credit notes or exchanges. Some may not offer anything. It is up to the shop what its customer policy is. Check the time periods for returning unsuitable goods or unwanted gifts. This can vary from shop to shop.

8. Keep all receipts. You will need the receipts if some presents are unsuitable and the shop is prepared to offer an exchange. It is always useful to have receipts if you have bought something that is faulty. If you pay by credit card check your receipts against your statements.

9. Take extra care when buying toys. Always check for the CE safety mark and make sure the toy is suitable for the child~s age.

10 Use cash for small purchases and check your change. Use your credit card for items over £100 for extra protection.

11. Try to test any toys you buy to make sure they work and that all the accessories are there. If they need batteries buy some so the toy can be played with on Christmas day .

12 If anything you have bought is faulty return it as soon as possible. Delays in returning faulty goods can affect your rights. Try and avoid busy times, however, as this can cause you frustration and anguish.

Further advice on your shopping rights can be obtained from Consumer Direct Scotland on 08454 04 05 06 or by logging on to website: www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

Alternatively you can visit or write to:

Trading Standards
The Highland Council
38 Harbour Road
Inverness