Online furniture buying can be a great tool for furnishing your cafe or restaurant. However, many of us write off the idea of buying online without physically seeing the product, deeming it to be too risky. How do you know the piece will work in your space if you haven’t had a chance to see it first? How can you tell if what you see is actually what you get?
As experts in the furniture field, we’ve put together a fear-free guide to buying furnishing items online.
Measure your space
Measuring is crucial to the process of buying online as the physical element of seeing the item you are buying is removed. Measuring the space in which you intend to place the item as well as its dimensions are key. If your furniture expands somehow —a recliner or extendable dining table for example— make sure you have accounted for the largest version.
Bear in mind you are likely to need extra measurements as your furniture may not be delivered to you already assembled. Don’t forget to measure any relevant doorways and stairways to make sure you can actually get it to where it’s supposed to go.
Read other reviews
Product listings are supposed to sound complimentary, and it’s likely that a piece of furniture is pitched exactly to meet your needs. Often, though, reviews tell a slightly different story. Reviews are key to your success and we suggest focusing your shopping on items that have lots of available reviews.
Ask for swatches
Online photos of the product are oftentimes hard to judge. Although it may show the shape and style of a product, photos are usually taken in good lighting and can be retouched or edited prior to appearing on a website. Colours and especially textures can look really different on a computer screen than they do in person, so it's always a good idea to ask for swatches if viewing the product in person is not at all possible.
Check the return policy
Before you buy, make sure to read the fine print so you know exactly what you're getting into. Some retailers will allow you to return large items as long as you pay for the return shipping; others charge a restocking fee. Some items, like upholstered pieces in non-standard colors or products that were made to order, may not be returnable at all.
Postage and Shipping Costs
Most online shops charge a delivery fee, either in addition to or in place of normal shipping fees, for oversized items. While you're shopping, check delivery fees, and factor this into the cost of your furniture.
Buying furniture online doesn’t have to feel like you’re taking a big gamble. Keep these tips in mind for the next time you’re ready to make a big purchase.