National Free Shipping Day

A joyful person surrounded by packages, wearing a fashionable outfit, with a whimsical cityscape in the background.. — National free shipping day illustration

Hey there, fellow internet explorer! Have you ever been scrolling through your favorite online store, clicking 'add to cart' with reckless abandon, only to come crashing back to reality when you see those dreaded shipping fees? Well, fret no more, because National Free Shipping Day has got your back! This joyous internet holiday celebrates the wonders of free shipping and all the joy it brings to our online shopping adventures.

When is Free Shipping Day?

It's national free shipping day on the 18th December.

The Birth of a Shipping Revolution

Picture this: it's December 18, 2015. People all over the internet are eagerly refreshing their screens, waiting for the stroke of midnight to strike. No, it's not New Year's Eve; it's National Free Shipping Day! This glorious day was born out of the collective frustration of millions of online shoppers who longed for the sweet, sweet sensation of free shipping. And thus, an internet revolution began.

Online retailers everywhere took notice of this growing movement and decided to embrace the power of free shipping on this momentous day. They waived their shipping fees and opened the floodgates to a flurry of online shopping madness. It was a sight to behold, with shopping carts filling up faster than you can say 'add to cart.'

Word spread like wildfire, and soon, everyone and their grandma (literally) were taking advantage of this incredible offer. People stayed up past their bedtime, eagerly awaiting the stroke of midnight. It was like Christmas came early for all the shopping enthusiasts out there!

In the Internet Age, Shipping's All the Rage

Since then, National Free Shipping Day has become an annual celebration that brings joy to the hearts of online shoppers far and wide. It's a day when you can freely browse through your favorite e-commerce sites, knowing that the cost of shipping won't put a dent in your wallet. It's a day when you can stock up on essentials, treat yourself to a little something special, or maybe even check off some items from your holiday shopping list.

But National Free Shipping Day isn't just about snagging that shiny new gadget or that cozy sweater without paying extra for shipping. It's also a day to appreciate the convenience and wonder of online shopping. Gone are the days of battling through crowded stores or searching high and low for that perfect item. With a few clicks and a little internet magic, your heart's desire can be on its way to your doorstep, without breaking the bank.

So, whether you're a savvy shopper who loves a good bargain or someone who just can't resist the allure of online shopping, National Free Shipping Day is a time to celebrate the magic of free shipping. So go ahead, indulge in some retail therapy, and let the world of online shopping be your oyster!

History behind the term 'Free Shipping'

1979

The birth of online shopping

In 1979, Michael Aldrich invented online shopping. His system allowed transactions to be conducted electronically using a Videotex terminal or television. Although this early form of online shopping did not have the concept of 'free shipping' yet, it laid the foundation for future developments in e-commerce.

1994

The rise of e-commerce giants

In 1994, Jeff Bezos launched Amazon, the online bookstore that would later become the e-commerce giant we know today. Amazon played a significant role in popularizing online shopping. However, at this point, shipping charges were typically incurred by the customer, as free shipping was not yet a common practice.

2000

The dawn of free shipping

The year 2000 marked a turning point in the concept of 'free shipping.' During the dot-com boom, many online retailers started experimenting with free shipping promotions to attract more customers. While such promotions still had conditions or minimum purchase requirements, it was a step towards the eventual widespread adoption of free shipping policies.

2005

Amazon Prime introduces free two-day shipping

In 2005, Amazon launched its membership program called Amazon Prime. Along with various benefits, including streaming services, Prime offered free two-day shipping on eligible items. This move revolutionized the e-commerce landscape and put free shipping at the forefront of customer expectations and priorities.

2008

Free shipping becomes a competitive advantage

By 2008, free shipping had become a significant competitive advantage for online retailers. Many businesses realized that offering free shipping could drive higher conversion rates, reduce cart abandonment, and increase customer loyalty. As a result, more and more retailers started adopting free shipping policies in various forms.

2013

Free shipping day

In 2013, the concept of 'Free Shipping Day' gained popularity in the United States. This designated day, usually in mid-December, offered retailers the opportunity to offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery before Christmas. Free Shipping Day became a marketing event to boost holiday sales and provide last-minute shoppers with an incentive to buy online.

Present

The ubiquity of free shipping

Today, free shipping has become an expectation for many online shoppers. It has become a standard offering for numerous retailers, with some even providing free shipping on all orders or through membership programs. Free shipping continues to play a vital role in shaping consumer behavior and driving the growth of e-commerce.

Did you know?

Did you know that the concept of free shipping is believed to have originated in a small, secluded village called Internetopia, where kind-hearted merchants decided to offer free delivery as a gesture of goodwill to their customers? And thus, the legend of free shipping was born!