Wednesday marks Free Shipping Day for those who want to take advantage of not having to pay for their gifts transportation The Street reported.
"This is not something every store is willing to do and so some opted not to participate," Kendal Perez, spokeswoman at Freeshipping.org told The Street. "We knew it was a risk to make requirements [stricter], however we're focusing more heavily on user experience and we know shoppers want real free shipping."
The site is in its fifth year, and includes 930 stores, a reduction of 40 - percent than last year.
"Even if there are fewer [store] participants this year, many consumers are trying to get their online holiday shopping done this week to ensure packages arrive in time for Christmas," Andrew Lipsman, vice president of marketing and insights at comScore told The Street. "Given the shorter holiday season this year (26 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas vs. 32 last year), the pressure is on for consumers to get their shopping done so this week -- and particularly Free Shipping Day -- should see some aggressive last-minute buying."
Many retailers promoted the day via their Twitter accounts.
'Free shipping with no minimum for a limited time! Enter code FREESHIP at checkout:" William Sonoma said.
Retailers may not see last year's $1 billion as a result.
"It used to be a big deal because retailers didn't offer free shipping," Rob Gough, co-founder of coupon shopping sites CouponChad.com and DefinitiveDeals.com. "Consumers expect it this year."
Free Shipping Day comes on the heels of retailers making efforts to cater to last-minute shoppers.
"Many stores are having site-wide sales overlapping with Free Shipping Day. Using coupon codes can yield additional dollars off your total bill," Jon Lai, founder of BeFrugal.com told The Street in an e-mail.
The Toys R Us in New York City's Times Square has operated since 8 a.m. Dec. 1, and will not close for a break until 10 p.m. Dec. 24.
