Table of Contents
Do you do the majority of your shopping on Amazon because of their fast shipping and affordable prices?
You will be happy to learn that there are ways you can save even more money with absolutely no extra effort—no coupon codes needed.
Read on to learn how to save big on Amazon open box deals— it is all about being a smart and perceptive shopper.
What Does Open Box Mean?
The “Open Box” of the Amazon Warehouse Deals division offers discounted like-new, used, and refurbished items.
These items may have been returned by an unsatisfied buyer or the packaging was damaged during shipment. Regardless of the reason, all these items will still be functional and in good condition due to Amazon’s standards.
There is also the more vague definition of open box when it comes to third-party sellers. In these cases, you will see “open box” as a description of computer games and software. These items will be missing their original case or UPC symbol, however, they will still work.
Do Your Research
If items are not computer games or software, the term “open box” will be determined by the third-party seller. You will need to do some research and read their reviews to ensure you are getting the quality product you are expecting.
Amazon recommends that you contact the seller directly to confirm what they mean by the definition of “open box.” To contact the seller directly, all you need to do is:
Click on the seller’s name in the item listing page
Click the “detailed seller information” link
Click on the link that allows you to contact the seller
Even if you do your research and you receive an item in poor condition, it is not the end of the world. Amazon offers an A-to-Z Guarantee that provides buyer protection.
Where to Find Amazon Open Box Deals
Ready to do some open box shopping?
You can find Amazon’s open box deals in its section called “Amazon Warehouse Sales.” The easiest way to find what you want is to go to the dedicated Warehouse page and do your search there.
If you are just browsing, you can simply click on the different categories Amazon offers, such as:
Computer & Tablets
Home Improvement
Furniture
Kitchen
Baby
You can also find open box deals during your regular browsing by scrolling down and checking out the “used & new” link at the bottom of each listing.
If one of these items has an Amazon Prime logo, this is an indication that they actually have the item stored in their warehouse and not with a thirty party seller.
What to Consider
If you have found the item you want that has an open box deal, here are a few things you should consider before purchasing.
First, if it is a third-party seller, you will want to check their reviews and what their description is for the quality of the item.
If this is a significant purchase, it will be worth your time to contact them directly. If they respond quickly and in a polite and professional manner, that is a big sign you are making the right choice.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
How Big Is the Bargain?
Are you saving only $10 or $20 on an item that you will probably be using for years?
Maybe it is best to invest the money in a new item instead.
How Much Wear and Tear?
Besides speaking with the seller and reading the description, be sure the item has lots of photos so that its condition is well-documented.
Consider how much wear and tear is accepted for the item you are purchasing. Amazon rates them as:
Like-New
Very Good
Good
Acceptable
For instance, if it is something like a watch or earphones that you will be using frequently, it would probably be a better investment to find something that is like new or very good.
However, something like a piece of outdoor furniture or a WiFi router can be in good or acceptable condition and still function perfectly.
Amazon Condition Types
Last but not least, you will need to know what each of the Amazon condition types means in order to make the most informed purchase.
Like-New
Even though their protective wrapping might be missing, the packaging itself may be in good quality. Instructions are usually included.
Very Good
These items have seen limited use and are still in great condition. It may have some light wear & tear along with some missing accessories, but the seller should let you know about any missing parts.
Good
This item has been used frequently but is still in working condition. The packaging may also be damaged.
Acceptable
This item has been used so frequently that it is almost worn out, however it is still in working condition. It may have parts missing along with a number of aesthetic issues, such as scratches and dents.
Saving Money on Amazon the Smart Way
Taking advantage of Amazon deals is all about knowing where to go and what your expectations are. Unlike buying a new item, there is always some risk that the conditions you see in the description are not guaranteed.
You will need to do a little research to ensure that you will not be creating problems for yourself in the future, but this little bit of leg work can lead to huge cost savings!
Ready to save more money effortlessly while you shop online?
Download our Chrome app extension today and watch your savings increase!