Temu. Chances are, you’ve heard of this shopping app since it launched last year. As prices of everyday items grow, so does Temu’s popularity. You may be skeptical, you might have questions, or you could just be procrastinating on downloading the app. Sharky is here to answer your questions, let you know what we think of it, and even tell you some secrets about how to maximize savings with the app!
What is Temu?
Temu (it’s pronounced “tee-moo”) is a shopping app and website for third-party vendors. That means that retailers from around the world can sell their products on Temu after being vetted & approved. They sell just about everything! From phone cases to cat clothes, and small kitchen appliances to jeans, Temu really has it all.
Is it legit & reputable?
Temu is actually based in Boston, backed by a very legitimate corporation, and are able to use secure payment methods like Apple Pay, PayPal & others. And if you are a finance person, you’ll understand the importance of Temu’s multinational commerce group that founded them having a market cap exceeding $120 billion. So, yes, Temu is 100% legitimate. Reputation depends on the customer. We give it 5/5 star rating, have never had a shipping issue or concern about products, and have always been happy with our purchases.
Why is it so cheap?
Temu is able to sell products for SUPER cheap (many times cheaper than Amazon!) because of a few reasons. Prices are constantly being negotiated between suppliers around the world, and Temu’s parent company. These suppliers are competing with each other for your patronage, which means they keep lowering prices. Plus, there are lightening deals, promotions, discounts and sales constantly going on thanks to that parent company’s deep pockets.
Do they have quality products?
Receiving items from around the world can definitely raise eyebrows. When you aren’t sure about the quality, you may hesitate on purchasing. The good news is that each seller has a rating on Temu from verified purchasers. Real customers leave reviews & sometimes photos, so you can research before buying. The short answer is YES. We have found that the products we buy from Temu generally match the quality we buy from Amazon! As we continue to receive Temu orders, we are always happy with the products – there are no surprises, as long as you read the descriptions and keep your expectations in check.
Does shipping take forever?
Most of us are spoiled and used to being Amazon Prime members – enjoying that free 2-day shipping. Temu orders take a bit longer, since they are curated from global companies. You’ll get your bright orange package in about 7-15 days. On average, it has taken our orders about 10 days to arrive. You’ll get a window of time, and if it’s delivered after that window, you’ll get a free $5 credit! You’ll also be able to track your shipment and get text or email alerts every step of the way.
Spill the secrets!
Now for the fun stuff! Here are some awesome tips and secrets we’ve been using on Temu to get the most bang for our buck:
- Some sellers will allow you to keep an item you wish to return, AND refund the money for it. You won’t know until you attempt to return them. Our guess is that it’s cheaper for them to let you have it and refund, rather than ship it back.
- Request Price Adjustment – when Temu sells the same item you purchased for less within 30 days, you’ll be offered the difference! To get it, in the app, go to: YOU –> YOUR ORDERS –>> click on a specific order. If you see “request price adjustment” near “leave review” and “view receipt,” then you can get some money back! Just select the method: original payment, or Temu credit (which takes seconds). Be sure to frequently check back as price adjustments can happen any time.
- Savings bundles – you may be offered these when you make a purchase. These bundles will be multiple coupons for discounts on minimum amounts ($7 off $30 purchase, etc.). You can use these coupons for subsequent orders, but be fast, because they only last a few days. If offered a bundle, consider splitting up your larger order so you can use a coupon on the second order! These bundle offerings will show up in your coupons & offers section if available.
- Free gifts – You might also be offered a free gift – usually an item under $5. There are pages and pages of free gift options, making this a great perk! This free gift offering will show up in your coupons & offers section if available.
More tips
- Always look at the sizes and measurements before ordering – customers who are disappointed or surprised by their order usually did not read the description.
- Remember that if you’re paying $5 for an item, it will not be the same quality as if you paid $50 for a similar item. Be realistic when you shop.
- Purchase Protection Program: Temu will give you a FULL refund if your item is damaged, missing, or does not arrive as described.
- Returns: up to 90 days to return a purchase. Shipping is FREE on the first item of each order to return. Pick original payment or Temu credit (which is much faster)
- You CAN create a wishlist, but you cannot share the wishlist.
GET THE TEMU APP! iOS/Android
This is our very honest experience with Temu and multiple orders over the last 6 months. We heard both good and bad before shopping and have been very happy with our Temu orders. You may have a different experience.
