BBB Tip: How to handle door-to-door sales
St. Louis, Mo., April 21, 2025 – Warmer weather means everyone is getting out more, including door-to-door salespeople. Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) advises consumers to make safe, smart decisions about door-to-door offers.
Read more or hear from Better Business Bureau Regional Director Pamela Hernandez below:
March through September is prime time for door-to-door sales, so now is the best time to form a plan for how you will respond if someone knocks on your door.
Plenty of legitimate companies use door-to-door sales, including industries like telecommunications, energy, security and magazines. While they’re not selling a product, political, religious or charitable organizations often go door-to door to talk about their cause or ask for donations.
However, some salespeople may not be properly licensed or are not selling a legitimate product. Multi-level marketing businesses sometimes recruit new employees by knocking on doors, and while these programs are legal, there can be a fine line between multi-level marketing and illegal pyramid or Ponzi schemes. So, how do you know when to put your guard up?
How do I know if a salesperson is from a real company?
Check identification. Reputable salespeople will be able and willing to provide a company photo ID or business card. If a salesperson is not wearing a uniform, arrives in an unmarked vehicle or does not have company letterhead or business cards, there may be cause for concern. If you’re uncertain, you can call the company to verify the employee.
Check the company’s BBB Business Profile. You can look up the company at BBB.org to see their accreditation status, rating, customer reviews and complaints. This can help you decide if you feel comfortable doing business with them.
Ask about licensing. Many cities require door-to-door salespeople to have a peddler or solicitor license. Ask the salesperson about their license or call your city or township offices to verify.
How can I avoid being pressured into a sale?
Don’t be afraid to say no. Door-to-door marketing scripts are designed to keep potential customers engaged in a conversation as long as possible, but a legitimate salesperson will understand if you politely and firmly tell them you’re not interested. You don’t owe anyone your contact information or a purchase.
Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, like insisting that you must make a purchase immediately or refusal to take no for an answer. You can always take more time to think about a purchase and get back in touch with the company later.
Don’t sign on the spot. If you’re interested in a product or service, get everything in writing — including price, contract details and all terms and conditions — before you sign or purchase anything. Tell the salesperson you will review the information and follow up. Be wary of anyone who insists you decide on the spot. Verify the address and contact for the company are included and review all terms carefully before signing.