Holiday Free Shipping
A lot of shoppers like to do their shipping online during the holidays. And even though online prices may be lower, there's still the obstacle of shipping fees. Kelli Grant, Senior Consumer Reporter for SmartMoney.com, offers some tips on how to avoid those extra chargers.
First, check for online codes. Free shipping has been one of the most popular promotions this holiday season. Check deal sites like RetailMeNot.com and CouponCabin.com for codes to use at checkout. But don't automatically go for those deals. Some stores are offering codes for discounts of 20% or more, which will likely be more valuable than saving a few bucks on shipping.
It's also good to consider site-to-store shipping. Wal-Mart, Radio Shack and Payless are among the stores that let you order an item online and have it shipped free to the nearest store, instead of paying to ship it to your home. You'll find better selection online and you can often find coupons that wouldn't be available in store. Just make sure the pickup is convenient. Sometimes you'll need to go to a special counter, or present a few forms of ID.
And take advantage of free shipping day. Thursday, December 17 is the second annual free shipping day. Check out FreeShippingDay.com for offers on ground and expedited shipping from major retailers. Most are free with any purchase. If there's a minimum required, make sure you aren't spending $10 to save $5.
Don't be afraid to ask about in-stock guarantees. If you're in store and they're out of an item you want, ask if there's an in-stock guarantee. Borders and Sears have promised free shipping this holiday season for select items if the store doesn't have them.
And finally, picks gifts where you can get electronic delivery. Most stores have shipping deadlines posted on their site for holiday delivery. Eleventh-hour shoppers can still get free electronic delivery for things like gift certificates, magazine subscriptions and event tickets.
For more tips on shipping and other consumer topics, click here.
by Jenn Eaker and Kelli Grant