Is Zappos VIP worth it?

Over a year ago, when I frequently shopped on Zappos.com, I got an email from Zappos saying I was now in their VIP program. At first I was like, “Wow! This is cool!” But then around half an hour, I was like “It’s just alright.”

What is Zappos VIP?

Zappos VIP is a free members only division of Zappos and can be found at VIP.Zappos.com. (If you type in ‘VIP.Zappos.com’ in your URL bar, it will redirect to Zappos.com. You can access it when you are a member by logging into your normal Zappos account, then it will redirect you to the VIP portal.) Members get perks and benefits like 1 business day shipping.

Here are some of the benefits of being a VIP:

• Even faster shipping, next business day.
• You can earn redeemable points when you buy something
• VIP-ness is free
• Exclusive customer service

How to Become a Zappos VIP:

I believe there are a few ways to become a Zappos VIP:

1. Buy stuff on Zappos.com
2. Sign up for the Zappos.com newsletter (opt-in form located at the footer of Zappos.com)
3. Follow Zappos on their social media accounts – occasionally Zappos will post information about their VIP program on their Twitter or Facebook pages. Here’s an example of when Zappos posted a link to become a VIP for their Facebook fans.

I received my VIP status through my email after making 3 purchases. Your VIP status may or may not be dependent on your purchases. I’d imagine that buying more things would increase your chances.

There’s used to be a waiting list to become a VIP, although I don’t think it exists any more.

Note: These methods might not always work since Zappos changes things up frequently. I’m not completely sure about everything and I haven’t tested all methods since I’m already a VIP.

In order to maintain your Zappos VIP membership, you must place two orders per year from the date your become a VIP.

How Zappos VIP Could Be More Worthwhile:

Being a VIP is cool, but it could be better. It’s not like I get free stuff or have access to sold out items.

The fact is, the normal Zappos.com’s customer service and perks are so good on their own that I don’t use or need any of Zappos VIP’s features other than the 1 days shipping. I have never needed to call Zappos VIP’s customer service phone number, let alone the normal customer service.

I’d love it if Zappos would add extra features to their VIP program like having the ability to buy sold out items and exclusive sales. I’d have to admit, one day shipping is pretty awesome though.

If you are a Zappos VIP – great. If you’re not – don’t worry about it. Zappos VIP isn’t too difficult to get and isn’t life changing either.

What are your thoughts? Leave your comment below.