Match the exact item before comparing prices
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission advises matching the exact item details, such as manufacturer or model number, size, color, and shipping fees, when comparison shopping.
Calculate the total checkout cost
The FTC says shoppers should learn the total product cost, including shipping, handling, delivery, taxes, and other fees. The agency advises reading the full terms of an advertised deal and the complete product description, including fine print. The FTC recommends checking whether a seller has a price-matching policy and contacting the seller to request a match.
Read delivery and return terms
Shoppers should check delivery promises and the seller’s return and refund policies before buying. The FTC highlights questions about return shipping, return deadlines, and restocking fees. The agency advises keeping purchase records, including what was ordered, what was paid, the return policy, shipping promises, communications, and payment statements.
Treat sale and reference prices as claims to verify
A reference price, crossed-out price, or sale label does not by itself prove savings. The official page does not establish the current price, inventory, delivery date, or refund eligibility for a specific seller. Any recommendation must distinguish a comparison checklist from a claim that one offer is cheapest or best.
