The Better Business Bureau serving Central Virginia says the COVID-19 pandemic has driven a big jump in online furniture sales.
According to a release, online purchases of home products and furnishings have nearly doubled, while the online sales of outdoor furniture have increased by more than 400 percent.
BBB says this likely reflects the home improvements many people have been making, parents shopping for home school learning, and employees switching to a work-from-home situation.
However, the organization says making large purchases online should still be approached with care and has offered tips for shoppers.
People are encouraged to shop only with reputable retailers, which provide information about their company and have valid contact information, company reviews and more.
Especially during the pandemic, shoppers should know a store’s return and refund policy because return shipping for large items, such as furniture, can be costly.
Some retailers may have instituted special restrictions on deliveries and returns, so shoppers are encouraged to either read the policies posted online or call the retailer directly.
