Fast and complimentary delivery is among the key factors why online shoppers choose to shop on Amazon. However, the delivery timeframe is also a crucial concern for online shoppers. Amazon has always been renowned for its prompt and punctual package deliveries. But have you ever pondered, “What time does Amazon start delivering?”
When you place an order on Amazon, the system displays a timeframe window and the exact delivery day at checkout. However, this does not reveal Amazon’s entire delivery schedule throughout the day. The delivery timeframe can vary for each order based on your address, residential region, or delivery day.
In this article, you will discover the start time of Amazon’s deliveries. I have also included some important insights regarding Amazon delivery that you should be aware of.
How does Amazon’s Delivery Process Work?
Amazon offers two fulfillment methods: FBM and FBA.
In the FBM (Fulfillment by Merchant) method, Amazon sellers take full responsibility for order fulfillment, from manufacturing to shipping the product. They either manage all the fulfillment processes independently or seek assistance from third-party services. Essentially, Amazon does not intervene in FBM sellers’ order fulfillment process. Hence, this article does not pertain to FBM sellers as Amazon does not assume responsibility for third-party deliveries.
FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is Amazon’s in-house order fulfillment service. Through FBA, sellers can outsource order fulfillment to Amazon. From receiving the seller’s inventory to storing, packing, and shipping, Amazon handles everything on behalf of the seller.
Amazon’s FBA delivery process begins when a customer places an order. When Amazon associates receive the customer’s order, they pack the product and assign the order to a delivery partner who handles the package and delivers it to the designated address.
When Does Amazon Begin Delivering?
Amazon’s standard delivery time begins at 8 AM. The company recognizes people’s daily schedules, which is why delivery personnel are not allowed to ring bells before 8 AM. However, if the driver arrives earlier, it is possible for customers to receive the package at their doorstep. Amazon Prime members can choose a specific time for their order’s delivery to ensure it doesn’t arrive during working hours.
Amazon delivers packages throughout the day until 8 PM. Some customers also opt for overnight shipping, which typically arrives between 10 PM and 4 AM, but this option is limited to certain products. In general, Amazon’s ideal delivery window is from 8 AM to 8 PM. However, if you reside in the US, you can expect deliveries between 4 AM and 10 PM.
Delivery Times for Amazon Fresh Groceries
Amazon Fresh grocery stores recently started offering online deliveries in late 2020. Shoppers can now order fresh groceries and have them delivered within two hours. However, this fast two-hour delivery service is exclusively available for Amazon Prime members.
If you are using Amazon Fresh, you can expect deliveries between 8 AM and 8 PM. Moreover, you can select your preferred two-hour window for the delivery.
The two-hour delivery window allows Amazon associates sufficient time to prepare your delivery. If you have chosen same-day delivery, make sure to place your order before 6 PM. In some areas, Amazon Fresh also offers a one-hour delivery window, but an additional fee applies for this option.
How Late Does Amazon Deliver on Weekdays and Weekends?
You’ll be delighted to know that Amazon drivers deliver packages as late as 10 PM on weekdays. Amazon now provides access to Amazon Key, an in-garage and in-car delivery service, for its Prime members. This service enables you to grant temporary access to your home, garage, or car to delivery drivers, ensuring they can safely leave your packages inside rather than leaving them on your doorstep. This feature safeguards your packages from theft during the night.
Amazon also delivers packages on weekends. The delivery schedule for Saturdays follows the same timetable as weekdays. On Sundays, Amazon delivers between 9 AM and 8 PM.
Reasons for Delayed Amazon Deliveries
Every online shopper expects deliveries to arrive on time. However, certain circumstances can lead to late deliveries. Let’s explore some common reasons for delays:
Increased Deliveries
In recent years, online shopping has skyrocketed, with the COVID-19 pandemic being a major contributing factor. Amazon is one of the most trustworthy online marketplaces, which is why it suddenly had to handle millions of orders. To cope with this situation, Amazon had to increase its workforce and working hours, but delivering all orders on time became an immense challenge.
Driver Shortages
At times, Amazon warehouses experience a shortage of delivery drivers, which hampers the timely completion of deliveries. In such cases, Amazon extends the delivery window for customers, and remaining drivers shoulder additional assignments to ensure deliveries are completed.
Order Time
Amazon deliveries depend on the timeframe specified by customers. When you place an order, you are given a specific timeframe for delivery. For instance, if you place an order between 8 AM and 1 PM, you expect your package to arrive by 6 PM. If you are not a Prime member, your delivery time will depend on the shipping date.
Uncontrollable Conditions
Occasionally, delivery drivers encounter unfortunate events such as inclement weather, vehicle breakdowns, traffic congestion, or emergencies, which can result in delayed deliveries.
How to Set Amazon Delivery Preferences?
If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can set or update your delivery preferences to ensure your orders are delivered within your desired timeframe.
Set a Preference before Placing an Order
Amazon displays delivery instructions on the screen before you place an order. Here, you can specify the time you prefer to receive your order. You can set the date and the best time for delivery. Additionally, if you are using Amazon Key, you can include any specific instructions or notes for the delivery.
Do keep in mind that the delivery driver might not always be able to accommodate your request if it’s not in accordance with the shipping guidelines.
Set Preferences Through Your Account Settings
You can set shipping preferences even if you are not currently placing an order on Amazon. Simply go to your account Settings and edit your address. Within the Additional Address Details section, you will find delivery preferences. Here, you can specify preferred delivery hours or select the days when you prefer to receive your orders.
How to Expedite Your Amazon Delivery?
Follow these methods if you wish to receive your Amazon orders as quickly as possible.
1. Subscribe to Amazon Prime
To access Amazon’s fast delivery options, you need an active Amazon Prime subscription. With Prime, you can enjoy same-day, one-day, and two-day shipping options, most of which are available for free or at discounted rates. Apart from unlimited fast and free shipping, Amazon Prime provides access to an exclusive video streaming platform, ad-free Amazon Music, exclusive deals, free game content, and much more.
2. Look for Guaranteed Delivery
With Prime-labelled items on Amazon, you can select a delivery preference during the online ordering process. Choosing the guaranteed delivery window ensures that you receive your orders within the specified timeframe. This delivery window is tailored to suit your convenience and ensures timely delivery.
3. Utilize Amazon Locker Service
Amazon Lockers are secure holding areas located in public spaces like retail shops, grocery stores, gas stations, and malls. If there is an Amazon locker near your location, you can use this service for swift and secure deliveries. Each order’s delivery confirmation email will include a 6-digit code. Use this code to unlock the Amazon locker and collect your package.
4. Utilize Amazon Key
As mentioned earlier, Amazon Key is an in-home, in-garage, and in-car delivery service. With this option, you can grant the delivery driver temporary access to your home, car trunk, or garage. This service is especially useful when you are away from home. It ensures the timely delivery of your packages, even in your absence.
5. No Signatures
Amazon drivers usually request signatures upon delivery. However, since most deliveries occur during the day, it is possible that you may be at work when your delivery arrives. In such cases, the driver will postpone the delivery until you are available to sign for it.
To avoid this situation, you can choose the “no signature upon delivery” option. This allows the driver to leave your package at your doorstep, whether you are home or not. If you are concerned about the package’s safety when you’re not home, you can opt for the Amazon Key feature to ensure a secure delivery. Alternatively, you can also select expedited shipping with higher charges to accelerate your Amazon delivery.
Final Thoughts: When Does Amazon Start Delivering?
Fast and punctual delivery is one of the primary reasons behind Amazon’s global popularity. Internationally, Amazon’s delivery time begins at 8 AM and ends at 8 PM, according to the local time. In some areas, deliveries may begin as early as 6 AM and conclude at 10 PM. However, only Amazon Prime members can set delivery preferences and enjoy swift deliveries. So, if you want to take advantage of free and expedited shipping, consider subscribing to Amazon Prime.
