BBB Halloween Tips: Pop-up Store Frights and Web Entanglements

With all of the activity expected in the marketplace surrounding Halloween, Better Business Bureau Serving Wisconsin believes it is important to check companies before you purchase merchandise to enhance your celebration.

Halloween definitely isn’t small potatoes, or pumpkins as it were. According to the National Retail Federation, spending on Halloween festivities, including candy, costumes, and decorations is expected to reach $6.9 billion. 157 million Americans are expected to celebrate Halloween this year, making Halloween the second largest shopping season of the year.

BBB advises consumers to spend Halloween shopping dollars wisely.

Pop-up stores

Complaints are received each year by BBBs regarding the temporary retail outlets that suddenly show up in our neighborhoods this time of year. Those complaints range from issues about unclear return and exchange policies to products that are damaged or have missing pieces. Some customers say that when they go to return a product or express a grievance, they find the store is packed up and long gone.

Here is what you should keep in mind when shopping at pop-up stores:

■ Check the company’s business review with the BBB at BBB.org.
■ Buy from companies that have been around long enough to have a clear track record.
■ Stores with a spotty past may change their name from year to year.
■ Ask the store how long it plans to occupy the building. If you cannot get an answer, ask to speak with a manager.
■ See if they have a website in case you need to contact them later.
■ Inquire about the return policy in detail.
■ Save your receipts.
■ Use a credit card. You’ll have the most protection if you must dispute a problem with the card’s issuer.
■ Some recommend shopping nearer Halloween. Retailers may lower prices on candy, costumes and decorations to move them out.

Online shopping

It is getting late for online shopping but still possible if you pay attention to promised shipping dates. (It is unlikely, of course, that you would have time between now and Halloween to return an item and get a replacement sent.) Here is some advice about online Halloween shopping:

■ Check the company’s BBB record at BBB.org.
■ Use your browser to search for the company’s customer reviews by typing their name plus the word “review.”
■ Services like Pay Pal are useful because they keep your credit card number from the seller.
■ With reputable retailers, pay by credit card.
■ Know the return policy and read it carefully.
■ Print out and save all email notifications regarding the transaction.
■ Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the price and any shipping and handling charges.
■ Check a site’s security settings, being sure the web address is secure and begins with https://.

To read or post customer reviews, file a complaint and check on companies and charities, visit bbb.org.