{November 21, 2011} It’s time to start planning your Black Friday, that special day after the US Thanksgiving when retailers gear up to offer their best. Our past experience tells us that all deals are not created equal and the fine print is often the most important thing. Before you head out the door or buy online for a block buster, the Better Business Bureau and Consumer Protection BC offer the following tip sheet to help you save time and money and make smart consumer decisions.

Tip 1 – Know before You Go.
In the coming weeks many retailers will release their Black Friday deals online, in social media and other publications. Research where the sales are and make a list of your gift priorities to compare prices and plan your day of deals. Since many advertisements will begin before the actual sale, build up a coupon collection as soon as possible. Remember to bring ads with you on Black Friday just in case the price is not what you expected. 

Tip 2 – Don’t Fall for False Advertising.
Some companies still resort to advertisements that are untrue, misleading, deceptive, or plain fraudulent. Black Friday advertising will be abundant and we urge consumers to watch for red flags. 

Many consumers have experienced frustration and lost money they can’t afford to lose after being lured by prices too good to be true, bait and switch ads designed to bring you in but push you toward more expensive items, fine print return policies, final sales, and deals that end before the day is done. To protect you on Black Friday, we advise consumers to do their own research to confirm the claims being made.

Tip 3 – Maximize Advance Alerts. 
Do you have favourite retailers? Now is a good time to sign up for their email alerts and “like” their Facebook page. BBB Accredited Businesses and other stores are working to reward your loyalty and you may get a jump on special offers.

Tip 4 – Shop with Trust.
If you find a deal – don’t just jump at the first chance to get it. The BBB recommends doing your research on the business – know how long they’ve been in business, look into their customer service track record, check them out at www.mbc.bbb.org. If you have concerns about the type of gift or the right fit – make sure you ask about their return policy too. 

Tip 5 – Comparative Shop Online.
There are dozens of Black Friday websites that claim to capture the best deals around and they can really help you do your comparative shopping online. Before you pick your favourite site, we recommend that consumers find a reputable site that’s not a fly-by-night operation either by checking them out at www.mbc.bbb.org or see what others have to say about the site through an online search.

If you decide to buy online there are a host of security measures to abide by, among them to Start with Trust and know you are dealing with an experienced, reputable retailer; confirm that the site is secure and be certain you have a phone number and physical address should problems arise with your order.

Tip 6 – Look for QR Codes.
They’re square, black-and-white and funny looking – but they can take you straight to a deal. QR stands for Quick Response codes and they’re popping up in many ads and print materials. Several BBB Accredited Businesses use them to help you Start with Trust and they can bring you directly to a special offer or a BBB Business Review. Before you can scan one and view the offer - you’ll have to install a QR app reader. Most newer smart phones are equipped to scan QR codes and if you’re a mobile shopper you could really have some fun.

Tip 7 - Check the Final Price Before Paying if Buying Online.
If you choose to shop online rather than deal with the crowds, always review the final amount due before confirming your online purchase. When shipping and handling charges, fees, or taxes are tacked on, those online prices may not be as attractive as you first thought. Any reputable vendor will provide you the ability to review your order before requiring you to make a payment.  

Tip 8 - Take the Time to Think Through the Details.
When buying online, take a moment to read all the fine print before making your purchase.  Find out what currency you are paying in, American or Canadian dollars? If you are ordering from the United States you may also have to pay duty on items.  If you are shopping for Christmas gifts, check the delivery dates as business get busy for retailers this time of year and it could take weeks to receive your item.

Tip 9 - Check Return and Exchange Policies.
All bets can change for Black Friday deals which means the store policies can change too. Make sure you know what the return and exchange policy is for your Black Friday special and that a return is even possible – especially if you’re buying online. Final sales, a very short return window (like before December 25^th) or in-store or online only credit could leave you with deal gone wrong.

Tip 10 – Shop Safely.
While getting a deal is important, there are ways to shop safely without putting yourself or your wallet in jeopardy. Consumer Protection BC and the Better Business Bureau advise consumers to take their time and plan ahead for the best rewards.

• Make a list and prioritize where you should go and when.
• Bring friends into the mix to help sort through your options, two cars can go in two directions making it easier to get limited quantities and some pals will even wait in line as you trade off shopping in the stores.
• Remember to get gift receipts and keep them organized for those moments when the thought wasn’t quite enough.
• Always read the fine print.

If you have questions about your rights and responsibilities as a consumer in British Columbia, please contact Consumer Protection BC toll free at 1-888-564-9963, or visit our corporate website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca. You can also follow Consumer Protection BC on Twitter @ConsumerProBC, like us on Facebook and read our blog for valuable consumer tips.