These days we are all trying to save money and stretch our hard-earned wages as much as possible. For this reason, it’s exciting when new apps with budget friendly shopping options open up. One that has been making headlines recently is Temu, the app that sells useful everyday items for fair prices which the big box stores can’t beat. However, are these markdowns too good to be true? Is Temu legit? Let’s find out why exactly the items are so cheap.
The Truth About Shopping Apps
As a disclaimer, you should know that any mass-produced item found on apps like these is inexpensive for that reason. Sure, you’ll be saving money, but nothing there is going be of top quality or likely last long. Or it’s bootleg. In fact, it’s usually bootleg. It does come in use when you need something you won’t expect to be using very often or need for a one-time purpose.
What Temu Is
For those unfamiliar, Temu is a shopping mobile app similar to those of AliExpress and Wish. They sell low-cost goods made in China, though Temu’s headquarters are in the States. The company is owned by the Chinese company Pinduoduo Inc.
Is Temu Legit?
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Temu is very safe to order items from in the sense that it isn’t a fake company that will take your money or steals your information. However, their customer service seems to be something left to be desired. There are several reviews with complaints of packages arriving late or not at all. Many claim the customer service department is difficult to reach. Their return policy is on the wishy-washy side, and you should definitely review it before making any purchase decisions.
Basically, you can only return things that come damaged, don’t come at all, or are the wrong size or item. Only your first return is free and after that, you have to pay for the shipping. The costs are taken out of your refund. All in all, it’s a gamble. You won’t get your identity stolen, but don’t expect Amazon Prime tier shipping or customer service either.
Why Are The Items So Cheap?
When it comes to the legitimacy of the items on this app, common sense should come into play. For example, if you see a Nintendo Switch there for five dollars, there’s absolutely no way it’s a real one. The same goes for anything that looks like a popular designer bag. These items are inexpensive because they are likely mass-produced with cheap ingredients and likely use the same factories its competitors do. They typically get away with low prices because the items do not have a brand name label. By cutting out the middleman, you can keep prices low.
All in all, Temu is a fun and legitimate way to get some cheap items. Just don’t buy any gaming consoles on it. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.