8 things to know about sample sales sites

Do your homework. Sites almost always offer previews of what they’re selling, so you can comparison-shop at other retailers to make sure you’re getting a deal.
Don’t sleep in (as if you were anyway!). Many sales start at noon.
Pick your spots. Sign up for too many sales and your inbox will quickly be overwhelmed with bulletins.
Website merchandise is likely not to be “sample” at all, but mere unsold inventory, or even pieces specifically ordered after administrators gauge shoppers’ interest, hence the long wait times – over two weeks in some cases – to receive packages.
Unlike live sample sales, most of the sites let you return goods, often selling them later in “blowout” sales (though kids’ clothes tend to be returned less).
To simulate the aura of exclusivity and heart-pounding excitement of in-person sample sales, some sites have countdown clocks for items and call subscribers “members,” even though anyone can join.
Things can sell-out quickly. As a friend told me, “I bookmarked something the other day, adorable shoes with frogs for $16 instead of $30 and then went to do something and they were gone.”
Watch for shipping and possible return fees, which can turn a deal into a dud.

Babble babble.com