When it comes to shipping shoes, a girl should always look for ways to have them delivered to her door for free. Since not all shipping policies are alike, here is a breakdown of the most common types, including "Free Shipping," "Free Overnight Shipping," "Free shipping both Ways" and "Flat Rate Shipping." Please note: Shipping policies vary by retailer, so please refer to each retailer’s website for detailed information regarding their specific shipping policy.
Free Shipping
As most retailers are aware, Shipping can usually be the main hurdle for a potential shopper to purchase an item online vs. in-store. To combat this hurdle, many online retailers have begun providing users "Free Shipping" on orders with varying minimum values. This encourages shoppers to spend a little more in order to save on the regular priced shipping costs, which can often add up quite a bit. Minimum Orders also ensure that retailers are still maintaining profitability while covering the delivery expense for their shoppers. Free Shipping is one of the first things savvy shoppers should look for in order to maximize savings and convenience.
Free Overnight and 2nd Day Shipping
Not all free Shipping offers are alike. Some retailers may provide Free Shipping via USPS Ground, while others use FedEx or UPS. It is always smart to look at their "standard" shipping provider to know how long it will take your shoes to be delivered. One exceptional offer we see is "Free Overnight" Shipping. These offers are less common, but are a wonderful way to buy shoes at the last minute when you need them. Free Overnight Shipping usually has a cut-off time on the day before, so always try to place the order by this time.
Free Shipping both Ways
Many retailers also promote "Free Shipping both ways." This means the retailer is willing to pay for the return shipping in the case the shopper is not satisfied with their shipment. It is a great incentive to shoppers to choose them over another retailer and give them the confidence to "try" shopping at their site. Free Shipping on returns is a great way to take the risk out of shopping online and allows shoppers to be willing to try more (knowing that the return won't cost anything and be hassle-free). Retailers providing free shipping on returns often include the return label with the shipment or provide an easy way to print a return label online.
Flat Rate Shipping
Similar to Free Shipping Promotions, Flat Rate shipping is a promotion where a single price is used on all orders, irregardless of how many items they buy, how much everything weighs, etc. This is the simplest method of shipping calculation (only second to "free") and allows shoppers to shop without worrying about how much shipping will add to their order.