Do a product search on Google and you’ll now see a “Get it by Dec 24” filter front-and-center that allows you to limit search results to only those items available in store or offering fast shipping. That’s just one of the ways Google is working to help holiday-shopper procrastinators.
Google shared data with EcommerceBytes showing how last-minute shopping played out last year. In 2022, Google data showed when the following search terms peaked last year:
- December 17th: “where to buy” peaked;
- December 21st: “next day shipping” peaked;
- December 22nd: “in stock near me,” “last minute gifting,” and “overnight shipping” peaked;
- December 23rd: “same day shipping” peaked.
Google also shared some additional last-minute shopping tips in a blog post last week:
Track Packages on Gmail: Google’s package tracking in Gmail feature shows helpful delivery updates on shopping emails in your inbox in the U.S on desktop and mobile. This month, we’re also starting to roll out some helpful updates to this feature, including nudging an email with package tracking information to the top of your inbox if there’s been an updated delivery date.
Easily Find Return Policies: Google is making it easier to find a merchant’s return policy from Gmail. We’ll include a link to that merchant’s return guidelines (if it’s available) at the top of shopping-related emails in Gmail in the U.S on desktop and mobile. We also show returns policies across Search — just look for labels like “free 90-day returns” on product listings or merchant links when you’re shopping.
Google’s tip on return policies is a reminder that this time next week, online sellers will be dealing with a different kind of frenzy as the season shifts into returns mode.
