Before you hit the stores, check out these 8 highly-rated retailers

If you're about to embark on this year's holiday shopping adventure, you may want to jot down the retailers that our readers gave high marks to based on their own shopping experiences.

Whether you want to hit the big stores, or are shopping for small appliances, check the list below for top retailers from our survey of more than 22,000 readers. Overall, independent walk-in stores were also highly rated by our readers.

Big retailers
Costco got high marks for product quality.
Dillard's also got high marks for product quality, and was also praised for service and checkout speed.

Small appliances
Amazon.com was noted for easy checkout and good shipping policies.
QVC.com was also praised for easy checkout and good shipping policies.
Independent stores stood out for their service.

Electronics
Personal advisers at Crutchfield.com will help with your order.
BHPhotoVideo.com was noted for selection.
Newegg.com got top scores for price.

Computers
Amazon.com got a shoutout for its selection.
Newegg.com also got a shoutout for computer selection.
Apple.com was praised by survey respondents for both its selection and service.

For more savvy shopping advice, check out Hassle-free shopping: Tips to help you—and your finances—survive the holidays, first published in Consumer Reports Money Advisor.

—Maggie Shader