www.IKEA.com

Ikea.com-Hit a local store; give the online store a miss

I figure you are reading this review cuz you're probably looking for stuff for your home or a gift, but essentially on a shoestring budget. So, you're aware that Ikea is the place-you'll find stuff that matches (now that's a blessing) and you'd get all that for a lot lesser! Sadly, it ain't all good news I'm about to give you.

I agree Ikea has some really fantastic products to offer. The categories are wide and each one is well replenished. You can either search for products based on the rooms you wish to furnish-bedroom, children's room, living room, dining room, et all, or you could click on the All Products link that displays numerous subcategories such as sofas & armchairs, rugs, lighting, tables, storage furniture etc.

If there isn't a store in your town, there will be some disappointments you may have to face. To start with, certain products are not open for online shopping. While the product is featured on the site, a little message will tell you that it is not for sale on the website but is available in your local store. I doubt if this is a tactic to get us to visit the store but if Ikea officials are to be believed, the website's chief purpose was to reduce the rush in its stores.

Anyway, if you're lucky, you'll find what you are looking for. And it's most likely that you'll love the price; after all that's where Ikea is a winner. The next step is to place your order. Strangely you are not given the shipping details. I found later that the shipping charges can take you by surprise (I have hated surprises since). If you survive through the tedious ordering process and checkout (congratulations!), your long wait for the order starts here (my best wishes!). Although, don't wait for confirmation emails or any communication, for at least a couple of days, if not weeks.

They'd call you; probably to tell you there's a problem with your order. Changes in delivery dates or out of stock goods, it could be anything to spoil your shopping experience. When you finally get your product, hope like hell that the instructions are clear enough for you to put it together (of course you should know by now that one of Ikea's cost cutting techniques is DIY assembly of goods). If the order is damaged, and you're looking for replacement or refund, you've a long battle ahead with a difficult-to-handle customer service. They even get hard of hearing at times!

The long and short of it is, avoid shopping via Ikea Online as far as you can. The store is no doubt great. And even if it takes some driving out of town, it's best if you get yourself an Ikea catalog and head straight to the nearest store for shopping. That said, I can add, Happy Shopping!