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Whether you shop online or at a store, you expect a seamless experience. Ideally, you should be able to find the items you want easily, checkout hassle-free, and readily access customer service when needed.
Unfortunately, many customers end up frustrated when they soon find out that some companies are not reliable.
5 Tips to Avoid Common Consumer Issues.
According to a 2025 consumer trends report, the most commonly reported issues include poor customer service, misleading product descriptions, delayed deliveries, and unfavorable return and refund policies. So, let’s have a closer look to understand how to avoid these issues.
Verify sellers and check their reputation
An online shopping report indicates that 70% of Americans shop online. With the rise of online shopping, scams, and fraud, such as fake sellers, have also increased. Often, fake sellers sell counterfeit products or fail to deliver items. They are becoming smarter in their approaches, attracting thousands of unsuspecting customers.
To avoid scammers and protect yourself from fraud:
- Shop from well-known, reputable platforms that offer consumer protection.
- Be skeptical of extreme discounts. If the deal seems too good to be true, it most likely is.
- Use secure payment methods such as credit cards rather than direct bank transfers or wire payments when making purchases.
Be wary of poor customer service
Recent consumer insights indicate that some brands repeatedly fail to meet customer expectations. According to the PissedConsumer’s best and worst customer service report, brands with the worst customer service do not resolve over 60% of customer complaints.
To avoid incidents of poor customer service:
- Research a company’s reputation before purchasing. Visit their website and social media pages to find out the channels available for customer support.
- Read online reviews to find out whether their representatives are easily accessible and responsive on the provided customer support channels.
- Avoid businesses with numerous customer service complaints or a low rating.
Research companies’ return and refund policies
Another recent consumer trends survey found that 62.58% of online customers expect retailers to allow returns within 30 days of purchase, with 80% of returns being due to damaged or broken products.
Many consumers assume they can easily return products, only to discover strict or unclear return policies. Some sellers do not allow returns, others charge high restocking fees, and others claim to allow returns but refuse to issue refunds or exchanges.
To avoid getting stuck with an item you cannot return:
- Check a company’s return policy before purchasing, especially for large, expensive items.
- Review the return policy in detail to establish return time limits, eligibility conditions and exclusions, applicable fees, refund process, whether they issue a full or partial refund, refund methods, and timelines.
- Use a credit card for your purchase. Credit card companies offer added customer protection and allow you to dispute charges in case of fraudulent sellers.
- Inspect items before buying—for in-store purchases or immediately after delivery for online purchases—to ensure that they are in good condition and that all parts are included.
- Report any discrepancies immediately and return the items as early on as possible within the return period.
- Keep all packaging and receipts, as most companies require items to be returned in their original packaging.
Be on the lookout for hidden fees and unexpected charges
Another frustrating issue that customers regularly encounter is hidden fees and unexpected charges at checkout or afterward. Some retailers and providers advertise low base prices as a way of attracting customers, only for you to find out later that there are additional costs, such as processing fees, service charges, or inflated shipping rates.
To avoid hidden fees and surprise charges:
- Compare prices with other sellers to ensure you are getting the best deal.
- Review the full cost of your purchase before checking out. Check if there are extra fees, such as handling charges or automatic add-ons.
- Clarify subscription terms and recurring payments. Carefully read the terms for opting out if necessary. Ensure that free trial subscriptions are canceled before the trial period lapses.
- Regularly review your bank or credit card statements for any unexplained charges.
Understand your consumer rights.
Federal and state laws protect you from violations such as defective products, misleading advertisements, hidden fees, unauthorized charges, and unfair business practices, among others.
However, many consumers are unaware of their rights and how to protect themselves.
To safeguard yourself:
- Take the initiative to educate yourself about consumer protection laws in your region. Check the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines on consumer protection.
- Familiarize yourself with dispute resolution options available in case a company violates your rights.
Stay Informed and Shop Smart
Smart shoppers ensure a good shopping experience by familiarizing themselves with common consumer issues and taking measures to protect themselves. Research prospective sellers, understand their policies, and use secure payment methods. Buy from reputable businesses only and avoid those that have numerous complaints and low ratings. Also, empower yourself by understanding your consumer rights and what to do if a company violates them.
