Free Shipping - Deal or No Deal?

According to USA Today, shoppers have switched their thinking about receiving free shipping for their online purchases. With money being as tight as it is, shoppers now figure that free shipping is not a deal really, but rather a mandatory service in exchange for their business. And, the free shipping expectation includes a "no strings attached" clause.

That means the average online shopper now expects to get free shipping, regardless of what they purchase or how much they spend.

It is doubtful that most online retailers will give up mandating a minimum amount of the purchase before giving free shipping, although the minimum amount will likely decrease during the holiday season.

Speaking of the holidays, most online stores will begin their free shipping offers beginning Monday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 30, although a substantial amount of stores have already begun offering free shipping deals early.

Avoid Hidden Costs:

• The Small Print On Return and Free Shipping Policies
• The Hidden Costs of Restocking Fees
• Is Shopping Online Really Cheaper?