Amazon used books: pros and cons

This article will discuss buying used books from the online giant, Amazon. It will endeavour to weigh up the pros and cons about buying second-hand literature, and to give quality consumer advice.

Introduction

When shopping online, it is important to assess your options in order to make the most of the sheer amount of shops available. Buying books should follow the same process. You need not purchase brand new books only from retailers such as Waterstones or HMV, there are brilliant alternatives where you can get used books at a huge discount. Amazon.com, and its international partners offer a brilliant selection of used books from a plentiful supply of sellers, allowing you to get the book you need at the price you want.

The Pros

Online bookstores have a great advantage over high street shops, as buyers can peruse every single item that the company sells in the comfort of their own home. Second-hand books are often well kept, having only been read once or twice, and even those that are worn more considerably, the price will reflect the condition. The Amazon bookstore has an extensive range of novels and textbooks, it is a great place to buy rare books, and for selling textbooks. Indeed, most students search through Amazon's used books in order to get their next year's material at a much cheaper price.

The Cons

Unfortunately, with any purchase that comes from a seller online (who is not a store), buyers may experience receiving a book that does not meet its description. It may not even turn up at all, should the seller be irresponsible. Amazon will assist you with any problems you may have with sellers, but it could still be time and hassle for you. Also, when buying used books, it is essential to make sure that if you require a particular edition of a book, such as a textbook for a university course, that the one you purchase is the right one. It can be very easy to buy a book without noticing the year it was released or the edition number, and be left with the wrong book.

Conclusion

Buying used books from Amazon is an excellent way of getting the literature you need and saving money. The vast majority of sellers are trustworthy, and Amazon have a great reputation for making sure you receive the best service possible. While there are benefits to buying used books elsewhere, or new books, very few companies can compete with the volume of books on offer, and the competitive prices.