Amazon is being aggressive as of late in getting new customers in the Philippines. After a jaw-dropping promo for its Prime Video service, Amazon also announced that they will be offering Free Shipping to the Philippines. That’s a really good deal, as the free shipping offer can save you around Php 700 in shipping fees. Before you get too excited, we break down a few things you need to know about this offer aside from the obvious fact that you need an Amazon account and a valid Philippines address:

Only select items are eligible. While there are thousands of items in Amazon, only select items are covered by free shipping. This is because it uses AmazonGlobal Standard Shipping, and not all items can use this shipping option.

 

You need to spend at least Php 3,000. Since AmazonGlobal Standard Shipping costs around Php 700 when converted, Amazon placed a $49 minimum order on eligible items in order to make their offer cost-efficient when it comes to logistics.

 

Import fees MAY apply. While Amazon will let you save Php 700 in shipping to the Philippines, you may need to pay for import fees if your item is valued at over Php 10,000. This is part of the Bureau of Customs’ policy back in 2016. So before adding large items to your Amazon cart like laptops, you’ll most likely need to reassess if the item is cheaper when bought via Amazon VS when buying it locally–UNLESS the said item is not available in the Philippines at all.

 

Payment is either credit or debit card. Unlike in the US where there are different payment options, paying for your items in Amazon is limited to credit and debit cards. Should you want to use eWallets like GCash or Maya, you will need to use their accompanying debit cards to make purchases at Amazon.

 

Shipping times might be shorter than usual. AmazonGlobal Standard Shipping usually imposes a 20-day shipping time for items, but this can be as early as just one week depending on factors like 1) if you’re a Prime member, or 2) if they are shipping a lot of items to the Philippines. To play it safe, expect your items to be shipped by Amazon to the Philippines in around 14 days or 2 weeks.

 

That’s all the essential things you need to know about Amazon’s free shipping offer to the Philippines. Happy shopping!