Refurbished Buying

Many people get nervous when it comes to refurbished buying for a number of reasons mostly stemming from their beliefs that: 1. used merchandise is sub par in quality to new merchandise and 2. there are no guarantees that they are getting their money’s worth. But, this is just paranoia from a lack of understanding as to what “refurbished buying” truly means.

Examples of Refurbished Buying:

  • Product returns by consumers after trial or money back guarantee time period expires — These items are returned to the manufacturer, inspected and repackaged like new.
  • Items where the box or casing was damaged in shipment.
  • The item was returned to the manufacturer because of a slight defect. The part that was defective was replaced by the manufacturer, tested and then repackaged just like new.
  • The item was returned because of a minor cosmetic blemish on the casing that was corrected.
  • Display items that are inspected, tested and repackaged.
  • Items within a box that were simply opened.
  • Brand new overstocked items.

Top Refurbished Buying Depots:

  • TigerDirect
    Wide selection of electronics from just about every category, including cameras, security surveillance equipments, television, motherboards, home theaters and much more.
  • RefurbDepot
    Outlet for manufacturer refurbished merchandise — has virtually everything electronic; including televisions, cell phones, cameras, laptops, desktops, gps, ipods, printers, scanners, refrigerators, air conditioners, video game consoles, power tools, and much more.
  • Tech for Less
    As the name suggests, they stock computers and almost everything electronic, including televisions, servers, mp3 players, and much more. Items generally and ideally come with manufacturer warranties.
  • Overstock
    Has items from every category imaginable, including electronics, furniture, clothing, jewelry, books and for the home. Usually sweetens the pot with sales and no to low cost shipping.

Refurbished Buying Considerations

  • Merchandise has warranty – typically 45 – 90 days parts and labor
  • Return or exchange – just in case you are not 100% satisfied.

Your experiences or additional tips about refurbished buying are welcomed.

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