How to Avoid Shipping Charges
You finally found it! That special item you've been wanting to buy for ages. But wait---the shipping cost is ghastly. Shipping charges can easily add an additional $10 to the cost of your item, and if the item is heavy, oddly shaped, or you live overseas, you may face even higher costs. With a little research and planning, there are a number of things you can do to avoid shipping costs when making a purchase.
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Instructions
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Buy items locally. For smaller items, you may be able to find them in a local store. You'll have to spend the time visiting the store, but you won't have to pay the shipping charges. Call ahead to make sure they have what you're looking for to avoid wasting time.
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Select the "site to store" option when purchasing online. Many retailers have an option that allows you to buy an item online, but pick it up at the local store. The cost of this is usually free.
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Spend enough money with a retailer. Many retailers offer free shipping for orders that are over $50 or $100. Save up your purchases and make them in one order so that you spend enough to get the free shipping.
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Use a free shipping coupon code. Some online stores offer coupon codes that you can use to save money. You can get these codes by joining the mailing list or by visiting a site like FreeShipping.org.
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Ask local store owners if they ever run free shipping promos. When you're purchasing large items, such as furniture or appliances, the store may charge a small fortune in shipping costs. It's not uncommon for them to offer a few "free shipping" sales every year. Wait to buy until this sale.
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Tips & Warnings
Always check the cost of shipping when making a purchase online. Some companies will hide the shipping cost until the end, leaving you with a big surprise.
References
- Photo Credit carrying packages image by Alexander Ivanov from Fotolia.com
