What do you think is the top shopping web site? Ask any number of people and you'll likely get as many different answers. That's because everybody who shops online has his or her favorites. How do they know good from bad? Here are some tips to help you determine whether a web site has what it takes to be considered a top shopping web site. Here's a secret: It isn't necessarily the web site with the largest advertising budget!



Offers readily available customer service

In the real world as well as the virtual, top-notch customer service will always set the top shopping web sites apart from the others. As you browse the many retail web sites, pay close attention to the availability of live human beings who can answer all the questions you have. Some web sites can put you into immediate contact with sales reps so look for this feature. If live chat isn't available, look for a telephone number. You need some reassurance that a human's around should you run into trouble with a purchase, shipment or return.

Provides accurate product descriptions/pricing

One problem with shopping on the Internet is that you cannot touch or see the products you're interested in purchasing. To guarantee the highest level of satisfaction with online purchases, try dealing only with sites that make an effort to carefully and accurately describe their products. Even better is a description combined with an image – preferably several from different angles – of each product. Top shopping web site administrators understand that this helps customers and reduces returns.

Includes a fair return policy

And speaking of returns, the top shopping web sites will gladly accept product returns. Always look for and read the web site's return policy before making a purchase. It's important to know the process should you need to return an item. In many instances, a return cannot be processed unless the procedure is followed exactly.

Protects your personal information

You never want your name, your buying habits or your credit card information floating freely out in cyberspace. But that's just what can happen if you deal with web sites that haven't incorporated security measures to ensure your information is safe from prying eyes. The top shopping web sites post privacy policies that tell you how your personal information will and will not be used so read them. And never order from a page that isn't secure. You'll know it is because you'll see a yellow padlock in the bottom corner of the page and the address in the browser will include the letter “s” after the http.

You certainly have plenty of options when it comes to online shopping so don't get caught doing business with a company that's not up to par with your high standards. Instead take time to find the top shopping web sites and only give your hard-earned money to companies you can trust. By doing so you'll increase your chances of getting exactly what you want at the best possible price – no return necessary!