How to Order as a Gift on Amazon: The Definitive Guide

So, you’re looking to spread some joy and send a gift through the e-commerce behemoth that is Amazon? Excellent choice! Gifting via Amazon is incredibly convenient, but navigating the options to ensure your present arrives perfectly and anonymously (if that’s your desire) requires a little finesse. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your gift is a resounding success.

The Core Process: Ordering a Gift on Amazon

Ordering a gift on Amazon is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s the distilled version:

1. Find your perfect gift: Browse Amazon as you normally would and select the item you wish to send.
2. Add the item to your cart: Click the “Add to Cart” button.
3. Proceed to Checkout: Click the cart icon and then the “Proceed to Checkout” button.
4. Shipping Address: Enter the recipient’s shipping address. This is crucial! If they are already in your address book, select them. If not, add their details accurately.
5. Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred payment method. Your recipient won’t see any price information.
6. “This order contains a gift” checkbox: This is the magic key! On the order summary page, before you finalize the purchase, check the box labeled “This order contains a gift.” This unlocks all the gifting options.
7. Gift Options: You’ll then be presented with options like:
   • Gift Message: Write a personalized message that will be included on a printed gift receipt.
   • Gift Wrap: If available (and highly recommended!), select gift wrapping for a more polished presentation. Note that Amazon often charges a small fee for this service.
   • Hide Prices: This option should be automatically selected when you check “This order contains a gift,” ensuring the recipient doesn’t see how much you spent.
8. Review and Place Your Order: Double-check all details – the shipping address, gift message, and gift wrapping selection. Once you’re satisfied, click “Place Your Order.”

That’s the basic process. However, the devil is always in the details, so let’s delve into some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I send a gift anonymously on Amazon?

Yes, you can, but with a few caveats. Checking the “This order contains a gift” box and leaving a gift message is the easiest way to ensure anonymity. Amazon will not reveal your identity to the recipient. However, if you use your Amazon account to purchase the gift, the recipient may be able to deduce who sent it based on the contents or the return address (if they initiate a return). To maximize anonymity:

• Use a generic gift message.
• If possible, use a credit card not directly linked to your name.

2. How do I know if an item is eligible for gift wrapping on Amazon?

Not all items are eligible for gift wrapping. When you check “This order contains a gift,” you’ll see an option for gift wrapping if it’s available for that particular item. If you don’t see the option, it’s not available. Factors affecting gift wrapping availability include item size, shape, and whether it’s sold by Amazon directly or a third-party seller. Look for it to appear beneath each product in the product information section and the product details, or the product description.

3. What happens if the recipient needs to return the gift?

When you mark an item as a gift, the recipient can return it for Amazon credit without you being notified. They won’t see the original purchase price. The return process is initiated through their own Amazon account. They will navigate to “Your Orders” and find the gift order (which they can typically find using the tracking information you provided).

4. How do I find the tracking information for a gift I sent?

You can find the tracking information in your Amazon order history, just like any other order. Go to “Your Orders,” locate the gift order, and click “Track Package.” You can then share this information with the recipient so they can anticipate the delivery.

5. Can I send a gift to someone who doesn’t have an Amazon account?

Yes, you can! You just need their correct shipping address. Amazon doesn’t require the recipient to have an account to receive a gift. They will receive the package with your gift message. However, if they need to return the item, they will need to create an Amazon account to process the return for Amazon credit.

6. What if I want to include a gift receipt but not gift wrapping?

This is perfectly acceptable. When you check “This order contains a gift,” you have the option to include a gift message and hide the price, even if you don’t select gift wrapping. The gift message will be printed on a separate slip of paper included with the package.

7. How do I send multiple gifts to different addresses in one order?

Amazon doesn’t directly support sending multiple items from a single order to different addresses easily. The easiest way is to place separate orders for each recipient and address. Alternatively, use Amazon Business accounts, which offer more advanced multi-recipient options, but they may require business verification.

8. Can I add a gift card to my Amazon gift order?

Yes, you can. You can purchase an Amazon gift card separately and either have it shipped to the recipient or send it electronically via email. If you’re shipping a physical gift, you can order a physical Amazon gift card and include it in the same order. However, it will be shipped in a separate envelope. Amazon gift cards are great add-ons to any gifts, and a safe bet!

9. What if the gift I sent arrives damaged or defective?

The recipient should contact Amazon customer service directly to report the issue. Since the item was marked as a gift, Amazon will typically work with the recipient to resolve the problem, offering options like a replacement or a refund in the form of Amazon credit. You, as the gift giver, will not be involved in the resolution process unless the recipient specifically asks you to intervene.

10. Can I schedule the delivery of my Amazon gift?

Yes, to a certain extent. During the checkout process, you may be able to select a preferred delivery date, but this depends on the item, the shipping method, and the recipient’s location. Amazon offers features like “Amazon Day” delivery, which allows you to consolidate deliveries on a specific day of the week. Keep in mind that guaranteed delivery dates are not always possible, especially during peak seasons.

11. How do I handle international gift giving on Amazon?

Sending gifts internationally through Amazon can be tricky due to varying customs regulations and shipping costs. The best approach is to use the Amazon marketplace for the recipient’s country. For example, if you’re sending a gift to someone in the UK, use Amazon.co.uk. This will ensure that the item is available in their region and that shipping is more straightforward. Be mindful of import duties and taxes, which may be the recipient’s responsibility upon delivery. Also, make sure that the item is actually available in that region.

12. What if the item I want to send as a gift is fulfilled by a third-party seller, not Amazon directly?

The gift-giving options for items fulfilled by third-party sellers may vary. If the item is fulfilled by Amazon, the gift options are generally the same as for items sold directly by Amazon. However, if the item is fulfilled directly by the third-party seller, gift wrapping and other gift options may not be available. Look for information about gift options on the product page. If you’re unsure, you can contact the seller directly through Amazon to inquire about their gift-giving policies.

By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can ensure that your Amazon gift arrives perfectly, spreading joy without any unwanted surprises. Happy gifting!