What are the important factors to consider when shopping online in Georgia as a foreigner?

Georgia has a thriving e-commerce industry with a variety of retailers offering a vast selection of products. But before you start clicking “add to cart,” there are a few important things to keep in mind.Are you planning on doing some online shopping in Georgia? Well, then you’re in luck!

Currency exchange rates

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that you’re familiar with the currency exchange rates. Georgian Lari (GEL) is the official currency of Georgia, and it’s important to understand how it compares to your home currency. Some online retailers may only accept GEL payments, so it’s a good idea to check beforehand to avoid any surprises.

Delivery Options

When it comes to delivery options, there are a few things to consider as well. Some retailers may offer express or standard shipping, while others may not offer international shipping at all. If you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb, you may be able to have your package delivered directly to your accommodation. Just make sure to check with the retailer first to ensure that they can accommodate this.

Payment Methods

Payment methods can also vary depending on the retailer. Georgian retailers may accept credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, or even digital wallets like PayPal. If you’re a foreigner living in Georgia, you may want to consider opening a Georgian bank account to make online shopping more convenient.

Potential scams

When it comes to online shopping in Georgia, it’s also important to be aware of any potential scams or fraudulent activities. Some common scams include fake websites that mimic legitimate retailers, phishing emails that trick you into revealing personal information, and counterfeit products that are marketed as authentic. To protect yourself from these risks, it’s essential to verify the legitimacy of the retailer and to avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown software.

Reading Reviews

Of course, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and ratings of the product and the retailer before making a purchase. Reviews can provide valuable insight into the quality and reliability of the product you’re considering purchasing, as well as the level of customer service offered by the retailer. This can help you avoid any potential scams or fraudulent retailers. If a product or retailer has consistently negative reviews, it’s a red flag that you may want to consider purchasing from another source. Additionally, if a product has overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s a good indication that it’s a quality product that has satisfied many other customers. It’s also important to check if the retailer has a return policy in case you’re not satisfied with your purchase.

Security

Another important consideration for online shoppers in Georgia is the security of their personal and financial information. When making an online purchase, it’s essential to ensure that the retailer has a secure website and payment gateway that uses encryption to protect your sensitive information. An important security consideration is the payment gateway used by the retailer. You’ll want to ensure that the payment gateway is secure and that it uses encryption to protect your credit card or other payment information. Some common secure payment gateways used in Georgia include LiqPay, Payme, and Bank of Georgia’s payment gateway. You can also consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to add an extra layer of security to your online shopping activities.

Customs regulations and fees

If you’re ordering items from outside of Georgia, you may be subject to customs regulations and fees. These regulations and fees can vary depending on the item’s value and the country of origin. It’s always a good idea to check with the retailer to see if they offer any assistance with customs clearance, as well as to determine if you’ll be responsible for any additional fees.

Local taxes

Lastly, don’t forget about local taxes. The Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate in Georgia is currently 18%, and this tax may be included in the price of your purchase. However, some retailers may exclude the VAT from the listed price, so be sure to double-check the final price before making a purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, online shopping in Georgia can be a convenient and enjoyable experience, but it’s important to keep these factors in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience. Whether you’re a foreigner living in Georgia or just visiting, taking these steps can help you make informed decisions when shopping online in Georgia. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing and happy shopping!