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Is online retail gift wrap worth it?

Consumer Reports' test gets mixed results over online gift wrapping

SAN ANTONIO – When you order a gift for a special occasion online, you not only face the question of what to send, but should you spring for special wrapping?

Most sites don't give you a preview of their gift wrap, so Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine checked to see just what you get.

The editors ordered wine glasses from ten big retailers, paying $3 to $6 extra for gift wrapping. The presents that were delivered ranged from chic to shabby, like the badly wrapped package from Sears and a worn-looking box from Amazon.

Macy's sent a pretty box, but the editors could see the gift through the paper! Crate and Barrel didn't use paper, just a big promotional ribbon and card.

Target's logo paper was tasteful. ShopSmart also got pretty presents from Pottery Barn, with a luxurious ribbon and fancy tag.

West Elm's box was simply beautiful. The ShopSmart team also received tastefully wrapped boxes from Sur la Table and Williams-Sonoma.


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