Online shopping is becoming more popular, so there are many discounts codes available (e.g. SAVE20 or 25OFF, FREESHIP, etc.) to encourage shoppers to buy online. You’re frustrated: After you fill out your cart, click on the link to proceed to checkout, enter the code and voila.
Terri Lynn is a firm believer in using promo codes when making online purchases. “It’s a part of my DNA. “I’m not obsessive, it’s just something that I do as a part of my buying routine,” Lynn, a media relations specialist in Naples, Fla. says. Lynn loves codes so much she will take a note of anything she sees in a department shop and go back to her computer to look for a coupon code. “In the span of a year I have saved thousands and that is not by shopping excessively.”
Austin Varley rarely makes it into department stores. Self-described as a “huge online shopper”, Varley purchases everything via his smartphone or computer. “I only have a limited amount of time in my day to do things. Varley, the owner of an advertising agency in Scottsdale, Ariz. says online shopping is time-saving and a Voucherful.co.uk discount code can save me even more.
Even if your code has failed before, you might want to do it again. Here’s how you can save as much as possible.
Check to see if the retailer uses codes. Lynn says, “When I go check out, if there’s a box asking me for a promocode, 99 percent chances are that there’s one out there.” I will find it.”
Be sure to use a trusted source. Although you could search for “retailer brand + promo code”, you will likely get hundreds of results. Voucherful and other websites are a better choice. Websites such as Voucherful work with thousands brands and retailers. They also accept submissions from users to increase sales and codes. Before being published, all codes are validated and tested. Additionally, users can give input by giving thumbs up and thumbs down to rate the code’s usability. This allows you to easily see how often it works. Similar sites are available for code-centric topics.
Install a browser Extension. They simplify the process. You can click on the extension icon to go to an online store’s checkout. The extension will attempt every possible promo code within a matter of seconds and select the best deal and apply it. These shopping tools not only locate codes quickly, but they also copy and paste them one at a while. This browser extension has one problem: It tracks a lot of personal information. Make sure to read all the fine print before installing.
Be persistent. Varley suggests Varley’s favorite strategy for finding a code. Choose your items and fill your virtual shopping basket. At checkout, abandon the cart. But bookmark the URL so you don’t forget it. If you leave, most companies will track you over the Internet and offer you discounts on what you had in your basket. This is called a “retargeting ad” and is used in all e-commerce spaces. Once you have the code, click on the saved URL to apply it. Some stores may send you an email encouraging you to complete your transaction.
You can create a unique email account. Although loyalty programs may offer rewards, you will likely be bombarded daily with emails. Amy Chang, lifestyle saving expert at Slickdeals, suggests creating an account such as mynamecoupons@ in order to keep your inbox tidy.
Understanding why codes don’t work. RetailMeNot’s Sara Skirboll said that codes are not always working because of the fine print. An expired code, which may not apply to certain brands, may not transferrable, or be limited to one use, could be the reason. Also, it is possible that your purchase did not meet the requirements of the code. For example, you may have spent a certain amount. Think about the source. Did the code come from the business directly or was it shared by a friend? Most people don’t share codes maliciously. They just don’t know that they were given a unique promo Code.
Loyalty is a reward. You can sign up for the loyalty program of your favorite retailer, restaurant, brand, or local business. Follow it on social media and download its app. Sign up to get promo codes and possibly a bonus code on your first order.
Be old school. More companies are using online coupon codes to insert in magazines and newspapers, as well as the monthly mailers and catalogues you get via the U.S. Postal Service. Bottom line: Don’t throw away Valpaks or Money Mailers before checking for promo codes.
Take your time. Roloson states that each retailer has its own strategy to cycle through coupons. It is worth signing up for loyalty programs, and to keep all email codes that you receive even if you do not plan to purchase the coupon code at the time of receipt. “A large part of the strategy involves checking your email to determine if a particular code is still available. This is based on past history.” Shopping experts agree that it is important to be patient and look for codes or deals before making a purchase. Lynn states, “Never feel embarrassed. Do not be ashamed to save money on purchases. Don’t feel ashamed to take advantage of the discounts available. Online shopping can be very competitive. Many merchants offer tempting deals to make your purchase more profitable.
