What the Tech: Amazon shipping
More than 200 million people pay $139 a year for Amazon Prime. For many shoppers that price is worth it. But if you only use Prime for free shipping the value disappears quickly. You would need to place around 20 orders a year just to break even on shipping alone.
The good news is that you do not need Prime to get free shipping. Amazon offers free delivery once your order reaches the minimum amount, usually $35. Sometimes the threshold changes depending on the mix of items in your cart. When I tested this with a combination of products, Amazon told me I needed to spend at least $50 to qualify for free shipping without an Amazon Prime subscription.
The Trick to Hitting the Free Shipping Threshold
The challenge is reaching the right number without overspending. If your cart totals $47.97, Amazon adds a $6.99 delivery charge. Add one more item worth just over one dollar, and the delivery becomes free. It is one of the easiest ways to avoid paying for shipping during busy shopping seasons.
There are websites such as Filler Checker that try to help by finding low-cost items that will nudge you over the line. In my testing, the tool was not always accurate. Some recommended products were unavailable or did not qualify.
A better method is to search Amazon for inexpensive essentials. Pens. Batteries. Small toiletries. Travel-sized over-the-counter medicine. For example, Amazon sells a small pack of Tylenol for $2.49. Adding that to my cart removed the $6.99 delivery fee. I saved money and picked up something I will actually use.
This strategy also works for Prime members who need to reach $25 to unlock free overnight shipping on eligible items.
Set Yourself Up Before Black Friday
If you shop on Amazon regularly, it helps to keep a few cheap items saved in your cart or wish list. Then, when you are just short of the minimum for free delivery, you can add one instantly without searching. This is especially helpful during Black Friday lightning deals when items disappear quickly and you do not have time to hunt for a filler item.
Important Exceptions to Amazon Free Shipping
Amazon’s shipping rules include a few exceptions. Orders must contain items that are fulfilled by Amazon or by a qualified seller. Some oversized or restricted products may not qualify. And the two-day clock does not start until the item is shipped. If an item takes a day or two to leave the warehouse, your delivery may arrive later than expected.
Final Takeaway
With a little planning, you can avoid delivery fees without paying for Prime. Keep a handful of low-cost essentials saved, watch your cart totals closely, and use the savings to your advantage during the busiest shopping season of the year.
