BadCetera Experience

January 10, 2008 8:26 AM

Recently, I was shopping at BedCetera.com and ran into some trouble when their website stated shipping time of five days but was then told that things take around a month. Is this a scam to pull people in hoping that they'll pay and then just be bare the extra time? I tried to ask them, but they told me that if I didn't like it to shop elsewhere. If they know of the extra time, shouldn't it be reflected on the website? Is this something that would go to the Better Business Bureau? (I'm in Vancouver Canada) If this issue is justified for a complaint, are there other places that I could warn other consumers. Are there other consumer websites that I could investigate a company before I buy something from them?
posted by Knigel to law & government (8 comments total)

I would complain, if I had legitimately expected a shipping time of 5 days based on the website, and then it changed to a month, and I determined this was standard practice. The Better Business Bureau, yes, would be a good place to go. However, if you ordered something of a custom nature (I have no idea what you purchased), and the delay is not the norm, I think you will just have to suck it up and wait.

Incidentally, the "shop elsewhere" comment would have incensed me, too.
posted by misha at 8:34 AM on January 10, 2008

When I'm shopping online, I find it useful to just google "company name" and "review" I frequently find reviews of the company/website.

But... the best "opinion" you have is your wallet. Cancel the order, buy it someplace else.
posted by HuronBob at 8:45 AM on January 10, 2008

I think you're overthinking it. I've waited 2-3 months for beds to come in, so I don't think 1 month is unreasonable. What else is the company supposed to do to speed up your order?
posted by mphuie at 9:16 AM on January 10, 2008

...but they told me that if I didn't like it to shop elsewhere.

Unless you're actively interested in helping/protecting others, that's your answer.
posted by SpiffyRob at 9:18 AM on January 10, 2008

When I'm shopping online, I find it useful to just google "company name" and "review" I frequently find reviews of the company/website.

Agreed, and I often find myself here (resellerratings.com) after such a search.
posted by rooftop secrets at 9:59 AM on January 10, 2008 [1 favorite]

Is it possible that you misinterpreted the website? When I look, I see "minimum 3-5 days" for the beds.
posted by acoutu at 1:32 PM on January 10, 2008

Acoutu, where do you se that?

In the FAQ I found this:
"How long does it take to get an item from placing an order?
Depends on the item you purchase. Some are in stock and usually next day shipping. But some are build to order, like our sofas, and take up to six weeks. Please click on product of your choice and scroll down till you see 'Delivery Time'."

http://www.bedcetera.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=3451
Delivery Time:
5 business days
posted by Knigel at 8:48 PM on January 10, 2008

Oh, that's odd. The other sections of the site have the word "minimum". If they refuse to stand by what their website says, you should be able to back out of the deal.
posted by acoutu at 10:08 PM on January 10, 2008