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the last word on returns

This article from the SeattleTimes.com points out yet one more "downer" for the online shopper. According to author Gordon Black, web return policies and procedures are obscure, difficult to figure out, and may differ product to product from the same retailer. Luckily for consumers, Mail Boxes Etc. is offering return information and assistance, at least for the "top 40" websites. A few others with brick and mortar locations will actually take merchandise back at the store, saving time AND shipping charges (unless, of course, you live in the hinterlands--which is one reason to use the Web in the first place). In the "real world," I shop where I know return policies are liberal, fast, and easy. I'm afraid that the web retailer who fails to provide me with the return service I expect will not see me next year!

Wed, 29 Dec 1999 09:27:16 -0800