Many members of the cannabis community know the feeling of getting ripped off during a sketchy transaction for a couple of grams.

You’d think it’s just the quality or the quantity of the cannabis, but new customers can get ripped off in a multitude of different ways. Here are six techniques that you should utilize for your first purchase with a new weed dealer. They aren’t only going to protect the value of your purchase, but they’ll also keep you safe.

1. Always inspect before you hand over the cash

An easy way to check the quality of the cannabis is simply by the way it looks and feels. Does it feel dry and crumbly? Are their substantial trichomes and resin? This is a proven and simple guide for determining the quality of your cannabis!

2. For your first purchase, bring some friends

This one seems especially important for that first-time purchase. Having a couple of friends who are seasoned in cannabis buying will be another great way to avoid being ripped off. A dealer will be much less likely to do something shady in front of a group of people. Your friends can easily help you determine if the price matches the quality of the product if you are unsure.

3. Stick to a small pickup initially

This is a great way to not only test how accurate the new dealer is with a weight scale, but it will also be like a trial run for testing the quality. It also prevents you from losing much money if things don’t go well. The worst case scenario is you lose 10-20 bucks.

4. Bring exact change

This seems like a no-brainer, but showing some random person how much cash you have is never a good idea. However optimistic you are about society, there are always a couple of bad eggs. Save yourself any unnecessary drama and bring enough cash to cover your purchase without too much extra.

5. Utilize a weight scale

A great way to determine the authenticity of a dealer is to check if they accurately weigh out their products. Bringing a scale can guarantee you get exactly what you are paying for. Sometimes, dealers will throw in some extra for new customers, a simple gesture that can start a lasting partnership.

6. Stick to referrals and avoid complete strangers

Finding a new dealer already supplying your friends or anyone you know is always safer. This ensures that the person you are meeting with has a reputation for being consistent and reliable. Like most companies, a 5-star referral can be worth much new business.

For more information on a novice’s guide on handling dealers, please enjoy here. 

1. They Have a Variety of Stock

A good weed dealer will have a broad range of products, not just the buds themselves. These could include different strains of cannabis, CBD products, edibles, tinctures, and more. It’s also a good sign if they have both THC-rich and CBD-dominant strains. Having a diverse product line shows that they have established relationships with quality growers and can cater to a wide range of customer preferences. This is common among dispensaries and medical marijuana providers who value providing their customers with options and quality products.

2. They Sell More Than Just Weed Flowers

While the flower is the most common part of the plant that people smoke weed, it’s far from the only part. Other plant parts can produce concentrates, edibles, and topicals. Your dealer should have knowledge about the full spectrum of cannabis products. For instance, a quality dealer can recommend CBD products for those seeking potential therapeutic benefits without the high that THC provides. This way, whether you’re a medical marijuana patient or a recreational user, they will have products tailored to your specific needs and wants.

3. They Have Delivery Services

In the Uber Eats and Amazon Prime age, delivery services have become a standard expectation for many businesses, and your weed dealer shouldn’t be an exception. It’s a great sign if your dealer can deliver your order to your doorstep. This feature demonstrates professionalism and consideration for customer convenience. Moreover, it’s even more crucial in the case of medical marijuana patients who might not be able to easily travel. Additionally, with the legalization of cannabis in many regions, many legal dispensaries now offer delivery services.

4. Their Prices are Consistent

One major red flag is inconsistency in prices. A reliable dealer or dispensary maintains consistent pricing, reflecting the stability of its supply chain. Inconsistent prices can indicate unreliability or dishonesty. It’s always recommended to do some research and understand the market price for various strains and forms of cannabis to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

5. They Always Answer Texts or Phone Calls

Communication is key in any business transaction. A good weed dealer will respond promptly to inquiries or concerns by text, call, or email. They should also be able to answer questions about their products, especially concerning their source, the strain’s potency, and the effects they might have. While drug dealers from the past might have been elusive or hard to reach, a good weed dealer, especially in regions where weed has been legalized, should place a premium on customer service.

6. They’re Punctual

Your time is valuable, and a good weed dealer should respect that. Whether meeting in person or expecting a delivery, your dealer should be on time. Any delays should be communicated and explained. Punctuality is a clear sign of professionalism and respect for the customer.

Finding a good weed dealer can feel like navigating a minefield. However, in places where cannabis is legal, many safe and reliable dispensaries provide an array of products for every need. If you need guidance on finding a legitimate weed source while traveling, check out this article here. We also got you covered for advice on finding reliable weed dealers online! Read here. 

So, whether you use cannabis for medicinal purposes, prefer to smoke weed recreationally, or are a connoisseur of different strains and growers, these signs should guide you to a reputable source. Stay informed and stay safe!