The Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving this area is warning consumers about shopZoey.com, an online retailer based in Boston.
Complaints from shopZoey.com customers allege they paid for shoes that were unsatisfactory or not delivered. The complainants also indicated that they were unable to reach the business about their refunds or orders.
As of September 12, 2014, shopZoey has received 31 complaints. The business has failed to respond to 29 of those complaints. BBB has attempted to contact shopZoey.com by phone, email and postal mail and has not received a response as of Sept. 12. Postal mail was sent to the address currently listed on their website, according to BBB.
“According to BBB files, this business has a pattern of complaints concerning unresponsive and nonexistent customer service. Consumers state the business ships incorrect or defective items. Consumers indicate that they want refunds or replacements.”
“When looking to purchase from an online retailer, it’s important to do your research and know your rights as a consumer,” said Paula Fleming, vice president of communications and marketing for BBB. “Be sure to check out a business at bbb.org, as well as, on their social media sites and website. All of these options are a good way to look for red flags.”
BBB offers the following tips when shopping online:
- Pay with a credit card. Under federal law, charges made on a credit card can be disputed up to 60 days after the purchase.
- Keep documentation of your order. After completing the online order process, there should be a final confirmation page or an email confirmation. Print and save any receipts for future reference.
- Know your rights. Federal law requires that orders made by mail, phone or online be shipped by the date promised or, if no delivery time was stated, within 30 days. If the goods aren’t shipped on time, the shopper can cancel and demand a refund. There is no general three-day cancellation right, but consumers do have the right to reject merchandise if it’s defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it’s the business’ policies that determine if the shopper can cancel the purchase and receive a refund or credit.
- Do your research. Check the business’ BBB Business Review at bbb.org before making a purchase to see its complaint history, details about complaints and any customer reviews.