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Each year, thousands of Popular Photography readers order merchandise from our Mail Order section with relatively few problems. However, as our Checkrated mail indicates, shopping by mail (actually by telephone) can present problems. In analyzing these problems, we've found that many of them are caused by a failure to use a little foresight which could avoid-or at least minimize-the potential for trouble. Over the years, we've published advice to readers, notably in Herbert Keppler's columns. We have copies which we can send upon receipt of a stamped, self-addressed, legal size envelope. And for your convenience, here are a dozen rules to help avoid undue worry when shopping by mail.
1. Know exactly what you want to buy. If it's a camera, know the model number, the basic features, and, if possible, whether it is a current model or a discontinued one.
2. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER use any form of payment except a major credit card. Do not send checks or money orders-if they get lost or misplaced, tracing them could be a long, slow process.
3. If you are not sure about which advertiser to use, check with the Better Business Bureau of the city in which he does business, with the consumer affairs agency or with friends who have purchased photographic equipment. Check out consumer comments in photo.net, rec.photo newsgroups, and Popular Photography's forums to find out if anyone has had experiences with that advertiser.
Very often, the telephone manners of the salesman answering the phone will provide a clue as to the advertiser's general attitude. If the salesman is rude or curt, refuses to answer questions and tries to pressure you into buying in a hurry, just hang up and try another advertiser.
4. Don't use mail order for purchasing used equipment or for trade-in transactions. Very often, an item offered as a trade-in will have a higher value on the phone than when it reaches the store. As for used equipment, there are too many variables to make it a safe practice. The best places for these types of transactions are local camera clubs or swap meets.
5. Read the ads very carefully including the fine print. Note, for example, that a lens for a "Brand X" camera is not necessarily one made by the camera manufacturer but by another lens company.
Also note that prices for lenses may be for relatively unpopular mounts. The same lens for your camera may be considerably more. Our advice-look for ads that state "same prices for all mounts."
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