Walmart Just Replaced Its Amazon Prime Alternative With This Free Offer

It was a valiant effort.

But after less than a year, Walmart is discontinuing its ShippingPass program.

The good news, though, is that the end of this program brings a new deal for shoppers: Walmart is now offering free two-day shipping on eligible orders over $35, no membership required.

The Rise and Fall of ShippingPass

On Jan. 31, Walmart announced ShippingPass is no longer available. The retailer said it would fully refund customers who participated in the membership program within 30 days.

ShippingPass was Walmart’s attempt to compete with Amazon’s rapidly growing market share. Compared to Amazon Prime’s $99 annual fee, ShippingPass cost only $49 a year and seemed like a good alternative.

Walmart has not said why it will no longer offer the program. Fortune points out that the wide range of services included in a $99-per-year Amazon Prime membership, such as video streaming and a cash back credit card, justify its higher price tag.

So what’s next?

The Deal on Walmart’s Free 2-Day Shipping

Walmart will mark items included in its two-day shipping deal with a green “2-Day Shipping” logo next to them.

The retailer guarantees same-day processing of orders placed before 2 p.m. and delivery within two business days.

The downside, though, is that Walmart does not ship on weekends or include weekends in its two-day window; Amazon offers weekend delivery for select products.

If you aren’t satisfied with a product you order from Walmart.com, you can return it to a Walmart store or ship it back at no cost.

For customers who frequent Walmart and want speedy shipping without a membership fee, this could be a great option.

Your Turn: What do you think of Walmart’s free two-day shipping? Let us know in the Facebook comments!

Kelly Smith is a junior writer and engagement specialist at The University of Tampa. She thinks Walmart just made an interesting move.