Gilt.com International Shipping and Global Presence Everything You Need to Know

Gilt.com International Shipping & Global Presence: Everything You Need to Know

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Discovering designer fashion and luxury items at unbeatable prices is a dream for many shoppers worldwide. Gilt.com has become a go-to destination for curated deals on clothing, accessories, home goods, and exclusive experiences. But for those outside the United States, the big question is: does Gilt ship internationally? The answer is yes—and this guide will walk through how Gilt serves global customers, how international shipping works, and what to expect when shopping from abroad.

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Gilt’s Global Presence and Core Operations

Gilt is part of the Rue Gilt Groupe, a leader in the off-price online shopping space. While its headquarters are based in Boston, Massachusetts, Gilt has established a broad international footprint through sophisticated logistics and partnerships.

Many ask, “Where does Gilt ship from?” While Gilt’s primary warehouses are based in the United States, some items may ship from other international locations depending on where stock is located. However, thanks to strategic collaborations with international carriers, Gilt can deliver to many countries around the world, making luxury fashion and designer brands accessible to global shoppers.

Gilt’s international reach extends to regions such as Gilt Canada, the Gilt UK, Gilt Japan, Gilt NZ (including cities like Gilt Auckland), and parts of Gilt Germany. This worldwide presence allows fashion enthusiasts from various countries to access Gilt’s curated collections seamlessly.

How Gilt Ships Internationally: Key Partnerships

To facilitate smooth international deliveries, Gilt partners with leading global shipping providers, including Borderfree and eShopWorld. These partnerships are essential in enabling Gilt to:

  • Ship to multiple countries including Canada, the UK, Japan, New Zealand, Germany, and beyond.
  • Display prices in local currencies, making shopping easier and more transparent.
  • Guarantee order totals at checkout, reducing surprises with hidden fees.

When shopping internationally, you’ll notice charges labeled as “BF*Gilt” or “eShopWorld” during checkout. These indicate the involvement of Gilt’s international shipping partners, ensuring goods are delivered efficiently to your address.

International Payment Methods and Billing

Gilt simplifies the payment process for global customers by accepting a variety of payment options:

  • Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diner’s Club, and UnionPay.
  • Digital wallets like PayPal, PayPal Express.
  • Local payment options such as Interac Online and Alipay.

Please note that Gilt gift cards and existing account credits are typically not valid for international orders. Payment authorization occurs at checkout, with charges processed once your order ships. Pending authorizations usually clear within 7-10 business days, depending on your bank.

Importantly, the total amount billed is locked in at the exchange rate in effect at the time of purchase, based on reliable rates provided by Gilt’s international partners.

Understanding Taxes, Duties, and VAT

When shopping internationally, customs duties, taxes, and VAT (Value-Added Tax) can impact the final cost. Gilt provides transparent calculations of these charges during checkout, based on the product’s origin and classification.

You may have the option to prepay duties and taxes, ensuring a landed cost—meaning no additional fees upon delivery. In some cases, you might choose to pay these charges upon receipt (Delivery Duty Unpaid, or DDU), which could lead to additional costs collected by the carrier. If duties or taxes are not paid upon delivery, the package may be returned, and shipping fees are generally non-refundable.

Tracking International Orders

Once your order ships, you’ll receive an email with tracking details and a link to monitor progress. For international shipments:

  • Orders processed via Borderfree feature tracking portals that begin with “E4X” and can be tracked through their site.
  • Orders handled by eShopWorld (ESW) provide tracking numbers formatted like “123456-1234567890” and can be monitored through ESW’s portal.

Common status updates include “In Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” “Delivery Exception,” or “Return to Sender.” If delays occur or packages are returned, it’s often due to customs processing, address issues, or failed delivery attempts.

Shipping Times and Restrictions for Global Delivery

Delivery timelines vary based on the destination, shipping method, and external factors:

  • Express shipping to Canada, Japan, Australia, and the UK generally arrives within 3-7 business days.
  • Standard or postal options may take longer—anywhere from 7 to 18 business days, depending on the country.
  • For Gilt Auckland or other locations in Gilt NZ, expect similar transit times.

Certain items cannot be shipped internationally, such as oversized, heavy, or hazardous materials (e.g., certain fragrances). Additionally, shipping restrictions may apply to alcohol or items subject to local import regulations. Gilt’s international partners are unable to deliver to Ukraine, Russia, or Belarus at this time.

Returns and Refund Policies for International Shoppers

Most international orders are final sale, with limited options for returns. However, customers in the Gilt UK and the EU benefit from a 14-day return window, with some restrictions and associated return shipping fees ($49.99 for personal reasons, waived if due to Gilt error or damage).

To qualify for a return, items must be dispatched within 30 days of initiating the process, and refunds are processed within 5-7 business days after the return is received and processed. Refunds typically include the original purchase price, shipping, and applicable duties and taxes, minus any return shipping fees.

If a package is marked “Return to Sender,” it might be due to incorrect address details or customs issues. Once returned, refunds are issued after Gilt receives the package, which can take several weeks depending on the destination.

Special International Promotions and Offers

Gilt occasionally runs promotions to make international shopping even more attractive, including:

  • Flat-rate shipping fees (e.g., USD 9.99 or USD 15) on qualifying orders.
  • Free standard shipping for orders over certain thresholds (e.g., USD 200+).
  • Region-specific promotions, such as discounted shipping for Gilt Canada, Gilt UK, Gilt Australia, Gilt Japan, and more.

Always check the details and terms of each promotion, as they can vary based on region, order value, and promotional period.

Final Thoughts: Shopping Globally with Gilt

Gilt’s international shipping capabilities make it possible for fashion lovers around the world to access top designer brands and exclusive deals. With transparent policies, reliable logistics partners, and a variety of payment options, shopping from Gilt USA or other regional sites is more seamless than ever. Whether you’re in Gilt Auckland, Gilt Japan, or Gilt UK, understanding shipping timelines, customs fees, and return policies helps ensure a smooth experience. Now, you’re ready to explore Gilt’s global offerings confidently—happy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Gilt ship to countries outside the U.S.?
Yes. Through partnerships with international carriers like Borderfree and eShopWorld, Gilt ships to many countries worldwide, including Canada, the UK, Japan, New Zealand, and Germany.

What payment options are available for international orders?
Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and local payment methods like PayPal, Alipay, and UnionPay are accepted, depending on the destination.

Are customs duties and taxes included in the purchase price?
Gilt calculates and displays estimated duties, taxes, and VAT during checkout. You may choose to prepay for these charges or pay upon delivery, which could result in additional fees.

Can I use Gilt gift cards or credits for international orders?
Generally, Gilt gift cards and account credits are not accepted for international shipments.

What is Gilt’s return policy for international orders?
Most international sales are final. However, residents of the UK and EU can return items within 14 days, with certain conditions and potential return shipping fees.

How can I track my international order?
Tracking links are provided in your shipment confirmation email. You can also view order status in your Gilt account’s Order History, with specific portals for Borderfree and ESW shipments.

Why might my international package be delayed or returned?
Delays can occur due to customs processing or carrier issues. Returns happen if there are address problems or delivery failures. Packages marked “Return to Sender” are typically not re-deliverable.