Macys.com

Full review
Macys.com includes standard fare department store categories so it's convenient for one stop shopping. Need a new vacuum, a pair of pumps, tie for your hubby, jeans for your teens? While you're at it, throw in a bottle of Chanel no.5. I like the options the site offers, but the selection is fairly basic. My local Macy's carries significantly more inventory.

Frequently, macys.com pricing is different than in store pricing. Occasionally, if my store is out of a size I need, I'll check the website. More often than not, the pricing is inconsistent on SALE items. It has been my experience that better deals are usually available in store, not online. That's IF I can find the item online to compare.

Common to all online retailers, macys.com offers sales and clearance categories. As a frequent shopper, I like to frequent these categories! I am often frustrated with Macy's site when I click on item after item after item ... only to receive the message "this item unavailable".

The website is very easy to navigate, and does load quickly. Item images are displayed well and can be manipulated. Often there is more than one view available. Not particularly exciting, but performs well.

Macys credit card holders will be alerted to online events, special pricing. If I didn't have a Macy's credit card, I don't believe macys.com offers enough to persuade me to shop online. Because I do receive email alerts for specials, I do use macys.com at least once a month. Macys.com enables you to manage your credit card online including a variety of options for bill pay. I use a free option and find this service very convenient.

You don't need a Macy's credit card to shop online. Macys.com accepts all major credit cards.

Going back to my imaginary shopping list from above; what would shipping be on an order of this amount? Well, maximum shipping charges are $23.95 for an order of $400.00 or more. Minimum charges are $5.95 up to a $24.99 order. Again, standard fare for comparable sites. (there is a table with specifics at macys.com for a complete breakdown) I HATE to pay any shipping charges, and wait until I receive an email alerting me to free shipping with purchase of (featured item).

Placing an order is easy. Simply add items to your shopping bag and at checkout, set up an account which is quick and painless. An email confirmation of your order will be sent to you. An email confirmation of shipment including tracking information will be also be sent to you. Communication is prompt and accurate. Orders are received promptly and accurately. Order history will be retained in your account.

Returns can be made at your local Macy's, or for a small fee deducted from the amount of your return, can be returned with a shipping label provided with your shipment.

If you need to contact Customer Service, I would anticipate your experience to be similar to mine, which is reliable and first rate. Customer Service will also be happy to issue credit if any of the items purchased are further reduced within 10 days. Phone number is 800-289-6229. Most important, the customer service associates are readily available. No waiting. Manageable menu.

A particular favorite service of mine, is the ability to purchase E-gift cards at Macys.com. OOOPS! Forget someone's birthday? There is a large selection of E gift cards available in any amount between $10.00 and $1000.00. denomination. You can customize, personalize, and have it delivered to the lucky recipient within 24 hours. Not a fan of the E-Gift? How about a good old fashioned plastic gift card? One which can be customized and personalized, and mailed to you for free.

Another favorite service is the ability to create a wishlist. I have no problem spending money, but I don't like to spend money I don't have to! I'll place items I'm considering on the wishlist and then check it daily to see if the item has been marked down. Your wishlist is updated with sale prices automatically.

Macys.com has a better than average selection of makeup (still prefer Sephora), and a good selection of women's shoes. (still prefer Piperlime.com) Most of the other departments are ho hum. I like Macy's private label INC, but the online selection is scarce. I'm focusing on the areas I prefer, but macys.com does offer menswear, juniors, kids, baby, housewares, jewelry, etc.

Overall, it's just an average experience. Macys.com meets or exceeds my expectations of an online retailer with the numerous departments, pricing, online services, and ability to deliver an order promptly and accurately. However, the selection leaves much to be desired and generally my local Macy's offers better sale prices. (not always! I bought a cashmere muffler online for less than $20.00 --- about what I'd pair for 2 pair of stockings!!)

Despite the shortcomings, I continue to shop this site for the following reasons:

*the site is reliable
*sometimes it's easier to locate your size. My Macy's is a disaster, too full of merchandise and sloppy.
*services offered
*customer service
*and the number one reason, CONVENIENCE!