Your go-to-guide for shopping at a scratch and dent store
We all love a good bargain. Much like a cheetah crouches in the bush hunting a herd of impala, so many of us scour the aisles of Makro looking for a ridiculous discount on a dishwasher – some would say it’s in our nature! If you’re big on bargains, then you know that scratch and dent appliances are some of the biggest savings you will find.
Whether it’s a Defy washing machine or Samsung TV set, scratch and dent stores sell a range of spanking new branded appliances at a radically discounted price. The catch? They’ve all got a little ding, dent or scratch that renders them worthless to large outlet stores. If cosmetic damage doesn’t bother you, then this is a great way to shop and get your hands on the latest appliances without having to pay the steep price that comes with them.
Before you start searching for scratch and dent products, there are a few things you should look out for to ensure you don’t walk home with a busted item you can’t return or sell. Follow this go-to guide for bargain hunters to get the best value for money on your next shopping spree.
1. Narrow down your search
Shopping at a scratch and dent store can be overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Retailers usually have rows upon rows of appliances, each with its own unique features, warranties, and of course, damage. Do some research and decide on a brand you prefer as well as the features you need. This will make your shopping experience far less stressful and save you hours when searching for the right appliance.
2. Research the retailer
Scratch and dent distributors are usually quite reliable and some even offer their customers a warranty for added peace of mind. However, this doesn’t mean that they are all trustworthy, and the last thing you want to do is buy a banged-up appliance that doesn’t work. Look into a few retailers in your area and read through their reviews online to get a better idea of how they do business. Find one that is trusted, reliable and willing to offer support if you run into a problem with the appliance down the line.
3. Closely inspect each appliance
Shopping at a scratch and dent store requires a good eye, so get your best spectacles out or bring along a friend or family member who can spot a blemish from a mile away. When determining the extent of the damage, be sure to not only inspect the outside but the inside as well. Look out for serious issues like broken power cables, cracked glass and badly dented doors that won’t simply be a ‘quick fix’ and could even cost you more money.
4. Ask about the warranties
While some items come with a full manufacturer warranty from the supplier, others don’t. As you are knowingly purchasing an appliance that has some damage to it, it’s wise to ask about the warranties. If a retailer doesn’t offer one, then it might be best to shop somewhere else. It’s also important to ask questions about their return policy and read the fine print before sealing the deal as scratch and dent shopping comes with a number of risks.
5. Compare prices
Once you’ve found your bargain, it’s probably a good idea to make sure it’s even a bargain at all. Some stores might make it look like you’re getting the discount of the decade, but in actual fact, it’s not much cheaper than a brand new, out-of-the-box appliance. Shop around and find out what the value of a brand new product is before making your decision.
Are you looking for a branded appliance without the steep price tag? Head to Demo World’s Facebook Page to browse their wide range of discounted products.
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