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Discount vs Free Shipping Calculator

The crossover sits at a specific basket value.

Written and maintained by Mohit PatelLast checked August 4, 2026How we build these
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Better offer

Free shipping

by $1,183 a month

Discount contribution$25,794
Free shipping contribution$26,977
Cost of the discount$7,586
Cost of free shipping$7,934

A percentage discount costs more on high baskets and free shipping costs the same on all of them, so the crossover sits at an order value of about $58.00. Above that, the discount is the more expensive offer.

How the Discount vs Free Shipping Calculator works

A percentage discount costs more on high baskets and free shipping costs the same on all of them, so the crossover sits at a specific order value. Below it, the discount is cheaper; above it, free shipping is.

Also known as: free shipping or percent off · which offer is cheaper · shipping offer comparison

Not financial advice. Marketplace fees change, and they vary by country, plan and seller status. Every rate here is an editable default, not a quoted price, check the platform's current fee schedule before you price a product against it. This is not tax or business advice.

Frequently asked questions

Which offer costs less?

Free shipping on baskets above the crossover, the discount below it. The crossover is the shipping cost divided by the discount rate.

Which converts better?

Free shipping, in most tests, because shipping cost is the abandonment reason customers actually cite. That advantage is separate from which one costs less.

Can I set a free shipping threshold instead?

Yes, and it is usually the best answer; it captures the conversion benefit while turning the offer into a basket-size lever.

Should I ever offer both?

Rarely on the same order. Stacking them doubles the cost for a fraction of the additional conversion.

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