Online shopping has become an increasingly popular trend in Pakistan in recent years. According to a 2021 report by Statista, the number of online shoppers in Pakistan is projected to reach 97 million by 2025. This trend is largely driven by the increase in mobile phone users, which is expected to reach 161.4 million by 2025.
However, despite the growth of e-commerce in Pakistan, some people are still hesitant to shop online due to concerns about the security of their personal and financial information. In a survey by Gallup Pakistan in 2019, 31% of respondents cited security concerns as a reason for not shopping online.
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable online shopping experience in Pakistan, we have some tips for Pakistani online shoppers.
1. Shop at a Trusted Platform
There are dozens of online shopping platforms in Pakistan, but not all of them are reputed or credible. Always buy from a registered and reputable online store with a track record of delivering quality products and services. There are various platforms, some are pure online stores of companies where you just buy their products online. Others are marketplaces like Daraz and Tijarat, where any seller can list their products for display and ship them to buyers after purchase.
You can find helpful information about these stores and companies on the internet particularly search and social media platforms.
2. Learn About Product Specifications and Details
Before purchasing, get all the details about the product you’re interested in. This includes the brand, model, features, size, country of origin, date of manufacturing, and any other information relevant to your purchase. You can do this by reading the description, calling the seller, or using a live chat/email facility to communicate with the platform or seller.
Additionally, you can ask for the product condition (new or used) as well as the expected delivery date of delivery. If the platform has flexible bidding like eBay or Tijarat, make sure to check if the price is fixed or negotiable.
3. Confirm Warranty, Return, and Refund Policies
Confirming the important policies is very crucial. Always ask about the store’s policies on delivery, return or refund, and any extra charges. It is also essential to ask about the store’s warranty, return policy, terms, and conditions. Make sure you fully understand these policies before making a purchase. Also, double-check with the platform and seller about particular policies (like returns) in your case.
4. Keep Records and Receipts Safe
It is essential to keep records and receipts of your online transactions. You can save receipts and records of your online transactions electronically to keep a record of delivery dates and as a reference for future use in case of any issues or disputes. This will help avoid any losses in case of any disputes.
5. Visit Local Markets
Before ordering a product from an online shop, check its availability and price in your local market. You can employ your network and friends to your advantage and get market intelligence through them as well.
Sometimes, the same item is available in a market near your home. In this way, you can save yourself from the hassle of purchasing on the internet, waiting for delivery, and refunding in case of any damage.
6. Check Prices in Other Online Stores
It is always a good idea to check prices from other online stores. Different stores may have a price difference, and you can get a good deal. In addition, some stores announce a sale on their items from time to time, while some offer discounts when you buy their products in bundle offers.
7. Review the Store’s Privacy Policy
Read the store’s privacy policy and ensure they will not use your personal information (e.g., name, email, address, phone number, credit card number, etc.) for unnecessary third-party transactions. Additionally, only provide them with the necessary information to protect your data.
8. Use a Secure Internet Connection
When making payments via credit card, always look for the “https://” before the website address and a lock sign on the transaction page. This shows that the website is secure for online transactions. You should never give your financial or personal details via email or use a public computer or internet cafe for online shopping. Always use an updated version of a good Anti-Virus Program.
9. Inspect the Product as Soon as Possible
If you’ve purchased via “Cash on Delivery,” inspect the product before paying for it. If you find any problems with the product, contact the representative of the respective store or reseller for a refund or return. In case of any problems here, seek help from the store/platform’s customer support.
10. Seek Advice
If you aren’t sure about the product’s version or models, feel free to reach out the customer support. Otherwise, you can also copy the model number from the description and do a Google search to confirm if you are buying the right specs. This is particularly important and valuable in the case of electronics where models and specs are quite different for different geographies and ranges.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a safe and hassle-free online shopping experience in Pakistan.
Shopping at Tijarat.com
At Tijarat.com, we believe that online shopping should be easy, convenient, and accessible to everyone. Our user-friendly marketplace is designed to offer a seamless experience, connecting buyers and sellers from all over Pakistan.
However, bear in mind that Tijarat is not a traditional online store, but rather, a solid online marketplace (like eBay) where we aim to connect buyers and sellers and offer a whole bunch of unique features. There is 24/7 customer support in case there is any conflict or dispute.
You get a diverse product range, where buyers can bid on the listing to get the product at the rate they find appropriate. With a review/feedback system after every transaction, the buyer/seller can rate each other, helping others with future purchases. To get started on the platform, register yourself and start buying and selling with more control.
