Amazon is one of the largest retailers in the world. When shopping on Amazon, many people seek cost efficiency and convenience.
However, you may make some common mistakes when shopping at the giant online retailer. If you want to avoid losses, avoid these mistakes.
1. Don’t use Honey
Honey is a free browser extension that automatically searches for coupon codes for items in your online shopping cart to help you find the best prices. However, when applied to Amazon, Honey will compare different sellers’ prices for the same item — and even take shipping prices into account and whether you have an Amazon Prime membership.
In other words, when shopping on Amazon, you can be sure of getting the best deals when using Honey.
2. Choose the fastest shipping option
If you are willing to wait a little longer for your item, you can choose rush delivery. In exchange for your patience, Amazon will give you an immediate discount on your current order or a gift that can save you money on future purchases. As long as you don’t need something urgently, no rush delivery can keep more money in your pocket.
3. Lost a ‘secret’ Amazon department
Amazon has several secret departments where you can find some surprising deals on common items. Examples include:
You may be surprised at what you find when you start poking around. Don’t forget to check this department before you make a purchase.
4. Not using Ibotta
You can get cash back for using Ibotta to shop on Amazon. However, to do so, you have to actually shop on Amazon by launching from the Ibotta app. In other words, first open the Ibotta app and from there tap on “Amazon”, which will take you to the retailer’s site.
5. Glued to a color
Did you know that color bias is a thing? Some items cost more because they have popular colors. If you don’t really need the color of a particular item, you may be able to save money by choosing a less popular color. When looking at your options, check to see if a different color costs less.
6. Assuming all reviews are genuine
Be aware that Amazon has a problem with fake reviews. So you might be conned into buying an item because of the good reviews — only to be disappointed and feel like you wasted your money.
Use websites like Fakespot and ReviewMeta to help you avoid that fate. This free tool specializes in analyzing reviews for specific product listings, looking for patterns that suggest the reviews may have been manipulated.
7. Not aware of dynamic prices
Amazon uses dynamic pricing to try to maximize the profitability of multiple products, so be aware that there are times when you may see a higher price. For example, if an item becomes popular and more people search for it on Amazon, the price will probably be higher.
So pay attention, and know that dynamic pricing can play a role. Better yet, use a tool like CamelCamelCamel to get price history—how the prices of items you’re considering buying on Amazon have changed over time. That will help you better judge whether the current price of items is worthwhile.
8. Assuming Amazon has the lowest price
Many people immediately assume that Amazon has the lowest prices. Such assumptions may deter you from shopping. Don’t make this mistake. Amazon doesn’t always have the best prices, so consider shopping around. Your preferred internet search engine can help you quickly and easily find various offers.
9. Get the latest products as they come out
Just like other retailers, Amazon generally offers lower prices on items from previous seasons. This applies to gadgets and electronics, but also applies to other items. If you want to shop for clothes, homewares, and other items out of season, you may be able to find better deals, even on Amazon.
