Shipping gifts to loved ones doesn't have to break the bank

Most people know about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but for those who still haven't started their holiday shopping or still have a ways to go, there is another big day to get ready for: Free Shipping Day.

Free Shipping Day, which was founded in 2008, will be held this year on Friday, Dec. 17, beginning at midnight and continuing until midnight on Saturday, Dec. 18. On this day, over 1,000 participating merchants will offer free shipping with a guarantee delivery date of Christmas Eve, Friday, Dec. 24. Merchants range from department stores such as JCPenney and Neiman Marcus to big fashion names such as Tory Burch and Yves Saint Laurent to strictly online merchants, such as Zappos.com and ModCloth.com. Many stores that can be found in your local mall are participating, for those who wish to avoid the mall during the holiday shopping season or for those who found the perfect present in the wrong size or color. Also, so many merchants are participating that just looking through the list of stores might spark some ideas for those still waiting for inspiration for the perfect gift. To find out more, visit freeshippingday.com.