The holiday season is in full swing, and online shopping has never been more convenient. One of the most popular sites for scoring bargains and fast shipping is Amazon. From getting the perfect gifts for your loved ones and supporting your favorite nonprofit with ease, Amazon will have you checking off your holiday shopping list in a breeze! Check out these tips to have you shopping like an Amazon pro in no time.
Get to Know the Layout of the Amazon Website and App
Both the Amazon.com website and the Amazon iOS app are accessible with a screen reader and screen magnification software, with the website offering a more reliable experience. The website provides an intuitive layout, including properly labeled elements and easy navigation. This is done through their headings and common shortcut keys to find edit boxes and relevant information.
The Amazon iOS app is also relatively easy to navigate, with an easy-to-locate search box at the top of the app and various tabs across the bottom. Once a search is initiated, product titles are labeled with headings for easy navigation using voice-over and screen magnification.
Additionally, Amazon offers Disability Customer Support options via their website, including obtaining additional assistance via phone and chat.
Read The Product Descriptions Carefully
Once you’ve located the perfect product, read the product information, features, and details sections for the product listing. Sometimes, these sections offer different information regarding the product you are considering, especially clothing items. Some product descriptions are better than others, so our next tip will help you obtain even more information.
Check the Product Reviews and Customer Questions
Amazon is well known for the detailed reviews its customers leave on products. This is arguably where you will find the most valuable information about your product, including quality, fit/feel of the fabric, and even descriptions of how the product looks and operates. Additionally, you will find a customer questions section where you can find answers to commonly asked questions, or you may even submit a question before purchasing the product.
Use Your Resources
Despite all of the detailed information provided on the product information page, it can still leave you with some questions. Luckily, there are now two resources available for on-demand sighted assistance. Aira and Be My Eyes offer sighted assistance via an app on your smartphone. Aira has trained agents that provide visual interpreting, and Be My Eyes has sighted volunteers available to assist. Aira has options for both paid and limited complimentary service, while Be My Eyes is entirely free. Check out the Aira and Be My Eyes websites to learn more about each service.
Review the Return Policy
Sometimes, no matter how detailed your research is on a product, it is necessary to return an item. Be sure to read the return policy for each item you purchase. Most items have free returns; however, some products from third-party sellers on Amazon will require you to pay to ship the item back or, in some cases, may charge a restocking fee.
Support Outlook Enrichment with Amazon Smile
Did you know Amazon donates a percentage of all eligible purchases to your favorite nonprofit? Be sure to learn how to designate Outlook Enrichment as your nonprofit of choice while you shop on Amazon this holiday season! Happy shopping!
