Deal-checking guide
How to check whether an online deal is genuine
A crossed-out price or large percentage does not prove that an offer is the best available. Verify the exact product and complete purchase before deciding.
Identify the exact product
Record the manufacturer, model number, capacity, size, generation, colour and bundle contents. Retailers may shorten titles differently, and marketplace listings can add popular keywords to accessories or older models. A comparison is meaningful only when the products are genuinely equivalent.
Compare the delivered total
Add compulsory delivery and unavoidable charges to the item price. For appliances, include installation or removal services that are essential for the purchase. For electronics, check whether a charger, cable, controller or required adapter is included.
Treat reference prices cautiously
A recommended retail price, previous price or crossed-out figure may provide context, but it does not show what competing retailers charge today. Search the exact model across several retailers and look for consistent evidence rather than relying on a single percentage badge.
Check the seller and fulfilment
On a marketplace, the platform name does not necessarily identify the seller. Check who sells and dispatches the product, the seller’s recent feedback, expected delivery, return address and warranty provider. A lower price may involve a different condition, overseas delivery or weaker after-sales support.
Confirm stock and delivery
“In stock”, “available to order” and “usually dispatched” can describe different situations. Read the estimated arrival date and confirm it again at checkout. Limited-stock language should not replace a careful check of suitability and returns.
Keep a short decision record
- Exact model and essential specification.
- Condition: new, used or refurbished.
- Item price and known delivery.
- Seller, warranty and returns.
- Expected arrival date.
- Date and source of each comparison.
Scout labels authorised live data separately from ordinary retailer-search links. Where a live connection is not available, confirm current price, availability and delivery directly with the retailer.