Best Buy said today it will offer free shipping on thousands of items through Dec. 21 as it tries to compete for shoppers this holiday season.

The electronics retailer is following in the steps of Walmart, which announced last week it was offering free shipping as well.

Best Buy also said it has enhanced its store pick up program. Shoppers will be able to order over the Internet and pick the item up in the store on the same day. They can also designate a friend or family member to pick up the items and have out-of-stock items shipped to a local store at no cost.

The free shipping excludes laptops, netbooks, iPads, iPods, game hardware, Dynex TVs, appliances and other items that require scheduled delivery.

Kohl's also announced today that it will open at 3 a.m. on Black Friday, an hour earlier than last year.