Navigating the burgeoning world of online dispensaries can be as daunting as it is exciting. With legality and acceptance of cannabis usage on the rise globally, the availability of online dispensaries has followed suit. But with choice comes the critical task of ensuring you’re getting products from a reputable source. And one way of making an educated decision is by perusing online dispensary reviews. However, not all reviews are created equal. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for.

Authenticity of Reviews

The authenticity of the review is paramount. It’s not uncommon for online businesses, including dispensaries, to ‘seed’ their reviews with artificially positive comments. Authenticated reviews, where the reviewer provides evidence of their transaction, are becoming more popular and provide reassurance that what you’re reading is genuine.

When checking for authenticity, look for details in the customers’ experiences that feel real. Qualifiers such as last Tuesday, I purchased… or the package arrived with a tracking number (123456) lend weight to the review. Genuine reviews often include both the good and the bad, so an overly glowing review, without a hint of criticism, could be a red flag for inauthenticity.

Quality of Products

The main reason we read reviews is to gauge the quality of the products. This is especially important with cannabis, where potency, flavor, and effects are deeply personal and can differ significantly from person to person.

Reviews that discuss the potency of the products and how it aligns with the seller’s description are invaluable. Look for descriptions of flavors and aromas, and any inconsistencies between batches. Detailed reports on the product’s effects are also helpful — not just whether it worked but how well it worked and for how long.

Customer Service

Having good customer service can be the difference between a one-off purchase and a loyal customer. Reviews that go into detail about customer service — both the good and the bad — offer a window into how the dispensary treats its customers.

Keep an eye out for how issues were resolved. Did the dispensary respond to complaints quickly and professionally? Were customers treated with respect? Were offers of compensation, refunds, or exchanges made? Positive reviews of customer service can be a good indicator of a dispensary’s integrity.

Shipping and Packaging

The experience of ordering from an online dispensary doesn’t end with the product you receive. The shipping and packaging are crucial parts of the transaction. Reviews that document the speed and quality of the delivery service are helpful, particularly if the reviewer is comparing it to other online dispensaries.

The discretion of the packaging is also important, especially given the stigma still surrounding cannabis use in some areas. Dispensaries that package their products carefully, not just to protect them from damage but also to keep the contents private, often receive high praise in reviews.

Website Functionality and Ease of Use

A well-designed website that is easy to use can enhance the overall experience of buying from an online dispensary. Positive reviews of website functionality often mention how easy it is to find products, the quality of the images and descriptions, and how smoothly the checkout process runs.

Watch for reviews that discuss problems with the site, such as pages not loading, products not being in stock as indicated, or difficulty in checking out. These can be a sign that the dispensary is not as professional as you’d like.

Community Engagement and Reputation

A dispensary that is truly engaged with its community, and has a good reputation, is likely to be well-reviewed. Look for comments that discuss the dispensary’s involvement in the wider cannabis-using community, such as supporting local causes or engaging in educational programs.

Reputation is built over time, and a dispensary that has been operating for a while will likely have a good base of reviews and a stronger reputation. Negative reviews should be taken in context with the overall trend.

Conclusion

Online dispensary reviews can be a goldmine of information, but like any review, they should be read with a critical eye. By looking for reviews that offer specific details and cover a full range of experiences — not just the pleasant ones — you can make informed decisions about which online dispensaries to trust. Remember, the more information you have at your disposal, the better your online dispensary shopping experience will be.