Seems to be the same the other way round too. I've just received two items from Relapse Records as "gifts". Guess it stops the inevitable question:
"What is this item and why is it here?!?! Oh, wait, it's a GIFT, ah, no bomb threat this time then..."!
Why not... I thought that was a treat for you all... ha ha!
Yeah dude gift worked everytime for me. One company I know send a little hand written note saying here is your birthday present... which I think is a nice touch.