The Ultimate Guide to Getting Free Shipping on Smaller Websites without Spending Too Much

Looking to save some money while shopping online? Online shopping carts abandon purchases due to shipping charges, which can be a significant barrier. However, there are several cost-effective ways to get free shipping on smaller websites. Here, we'll explore strategies to help you achieve free shipping without spending a lot of money.

1. Chat it Up

Save Your Sale: Shipping charges are often the reason why customers leave an online shopping cart behind. Retailers are aware of this and may be willing to offer a discount if you ask to avoid abandoning your purchase. Keep those live chat windows open and ask about free shipping incentives. Even if they say "no," they might provide you with coupon codes that can still offer significant discounts.

2. Apply a Coupon

Use Coupon Sites: If reaching out to customer service doesn't get you the discount, don't hesitate to use one of the numerous coupon sites online. These platforms offer a wide range of discounts and deals that can save you money on shipping costs. Always check these sites before finalizing your purchase to ensure you receive the best deal possible.

3. Buy in Bulk

Meet Minimum Order Requirements: Many merchants require you to meet a minimum order threshold before offering free shipping. While it might not make sense to spend more than your planned budget just to meet the threshold, you can still strategically plan your purchases to meet these minimums. For example, if you're buying gifts for multiple recipients, consider purchasing everything from one or two retailers to save on shipping costs.

4. Get a Subscription

Save with a Subscription Service: Regular online shoppers might find it worth paying a small annual fee for free shipping. Services like ShopRunner offer free two-day shipping from most major merchants. While there's a $79 annual fee, you can opt for a free 30-day trial to enjoy the service during the holiday season. Remember to cancel before the trial period ends to avoid being charged the annual fee.

5. Pick Up in Person

Site-to-Store Shipping: In recent years, site-to-store shipping has become increasingly popular. Major retailers such as Best Buy and Walmart offer the option to have an online order delivered to a local store for no additional cost. Simply stop by to pick it up at your convenience. This can be a great way to get free shipping and enjoy local store pickup.

6. Compare Costs

Compare Prices: While free shipping is ideal, sometimes it's actually more cost-effective to pay for shipping. Merchants know that free shipping is highly desirable and may increase product prices to provide this offer. Before making any purchases, take the time to compare prices across different websites. Combining lower shipping costs with a lower total price can often save you more than free shipping alone.