Mail-Order Know-How

For a hassle-free catalog experience, the New York-based Direct Marketing Assn.--the largest organization of direct marketers in the world--offers these tips:

* Make sure your order will be delivered in time for the holidays. Many catalogs have order deadlines during the peak holiday season.

* Know the various shipping options available.

* If your order is a gift, make sure the person taking the order knows because frequently catalogs offer gift wrap and cards.

* Make sure you know the company’s return policy and satisfaction guarantee before you order.

* Keep a record of your order: company name, phone number, item you ordered and any confirmation number.

* Find out the total price of your purchase before you finalize the sale, including sales tax, and shipping and handling and other charges.

* Find out if services such as monogramming, personal shoppers and hemming are available for free or a nominal fee.

* Keep all receipts.

* Contact the catalog company immediately if the merchandise arrives damaged.

* If you are ever in doubt about a company’s products, policies or services, just ask. Catalog companies will want to ensure that you are absolutely satisfied.