The Banana Republic
, GAP, & Old Navy Free Shipping Trap.
Don’t know what that fishy/squid guy is doing up there? Click here for an explanation of the “It’s a Trap!” Admiral Akbar Internet Meme. Scene originally from Return of the Jedi
Sneaky. I was impressed when The GAP family of brands recently decided to offer up free shipping on any order over $50. You can even cross pollinate between Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, etc. by using the handy tabs at the top of their websites. If there’s $50 worth of GAP inc stuff in your bag/cart, it’ll ship at no charge.
As long as you make sure to CHOOSE the free shipping option.
I just recently noticed this. When you place anything in your shopping cart, the default shipping method is the 3-5 business days option that costs $7.00. If you place an item that costs more than $50 in your virtual shopping bag it DOES NOT automatically choose the free 7-9 business days option. It still defaults to $7 shipping.
Happens on all three clothing sites. You get free shipping via Piperlime, so, you’re safe there.
Is it a big deal? Nah. But I do wonder how many people neglect to actively choose their shipping option, and instead just assume that free shipping automatically applied to their order of over $50 or more.
And now… the video:
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Thanks for pointing that out. I don’t buy *anything* online that doesn’t have free shipping and free returns (and/or a return-to-store policy). Have you seen the site http://www.freeshipping.org? It’s pretty good for this sort of thing, though I haven’t checked to see if it singles out the nuances the way you do. Good going!
IT’S A TRAP
Thanks for the heads up. I probably would have missed it although I try to check all the shipping price options.
Now I have to say it… Star Wars? Nerd. Ha!
Nice catch! Personally I find websites that force you to enter your credit card info before entering promo codes and before they factor how much shipping/taxes are more annoying.
All I wanted was the merino sweater vest. But at $49.50 (pre-promo code), I was denied free shipping by a mere .50
A lot of online retailers require an opt-in for free shipping. Amazon does the same thing. I don’t think it’s a friendly policy, but I wouldn’t call it a trap.