Sometimes when you’re browsing on the internet, you might discover a few things that you might be interested in buying. But this particular product might not be available in your country.
Thankfully, there are trusted websites that make it possible to order whatever you want online, often for an incredibly cheap price.
However, depending on where you do your shopping, you might have to pay more for shipping fees, but not all sites require this.
Nonetheless, websites offer a cart where you can select what you want and as soon as you’re done, you can sign in to the particular website and enter your debit or credit card information. They usually deduct the money immediately and once you’re done, it takes a couple of weeks for your product to arrive.
There are some benefits and disadvantages to this.
The up side to online shopping is that you have much access to items you wouldn’t have in local stores. Also, you get to shop in the comfort of your home, or wherever you have internet access – without having to deal with salespersons and so forth.
Also, it saves time and energy – you don’t have to walk around from shop to shop. All it takes are a few clicks.
Many promotions are available for products, which reduce the prices significantly.
There are downsides to this, though. Unfortunately, you can’t properly examine your product, so the company could send a copy of a book, for example, with a tear that they might not have seen.
Also, it’s easy for your product to become damaged while it’s on the way to you, so there’s no guarantee that you will get your item in one piece.
There might also be a few parts missing.
Another issue you will have to face is the amount of time you have to wait before you get your product. Shipping takes quite a long time – so if you’re not patient, this might not be for you.
And do remember to use secure payment channels otherwise your card information can be stolen.
As Bank Windhoek’s manager of forensic services said: “Scammers have evolved and updated their tactics”, so be warned and be careful of where you shop.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!





