Buying textbooks online

Laura1013
Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:49:58 +0000

Buying books online is the way to go! Amazon.com and Half.com are the two I usually go through, sometimes eBay.com or a random online bookstore that pops up in a Google search.
It depends. Some companies and sellers are quick and you’ll get them within a few days, some take closer to two weeks. It should never take over a month unless there’s a serious problem with the order. If you’re ordering two months ahead of time, definitely just pay for regular shipping.
Also depends. If it’s a common book that lots of students own, it will be very hard to re-sell it online, and you’re better off trying to sell it to another student at your school. If it’s a less common book, you may be able to sell it and make most of your money back. I’ve even made a slight profit by buying and selling a textbook online.
The professor usually sets the book. If there’s a change in professor, there may be a change in book, but probably not. You should be fine going by what the bookstore lists. If you’re really concerned, email the professor to double-check.
Be wary of buying from personal sellers online. Most of the time, sellers are honest, but I have been screwed over several times by dishonest sellers who take my money but never send me the book or who send me a book in poorer quality than what I purchased. Major websites will usually protect you from bad sellers, but it will take time and it’s a hassle.