McDonald's has come under intense scrutiny recently for implementing price increases across its menu, but one specific charge has ignited particular fury among a segment of its customer base. The fast-food behemoth, which promotes its proprietary 'McDelivery' service as available regardless of order size, is now facing criticism over an additional fee applied to modest purchases.
Reddit User Exposes Controversial Small Order Fee
A McDonald's patron recently took to Reddit to share their frustration after noticing an unexpected $3.50 'small order fee' appended to their delivery order. This charge was separate from the standard delivery and service fees, catching the customer completely off guard. "Literally used my employee discount, and it's still cheaper through DoorDash because of this stupid... fee," the user lamented. "I've never seen this before in my life."
Customer Strategies and Broader Complaints
Other Reddit users quickly chimed in, suggesting that for $3.50, the original poster could have added another menu item to essentially offset the fee. "Probably because the subtotal was less than $15," one commenter speculated. "A lot of places, if not most, do this sort of fee for delivery. I usually just find something small that'll cover it, so I at least won't be paying for NOTHING."
Another customer highlighted additional pricing grievances, noting, "I always get BOGO double cheeseburgers and I found out yesterday they are charging 50 cents to add mayonnaise to a burger now. Needless to say, that turned me away and I ate at home. So much for trying to expand value. Seems to just be at my closest location though, other ones it doesn't charge."
Fee Structure and Historical Context
McDonald's offers delivery both through third-party platforms like DoorDash and directly via its own mobile application. In New York, for instance, most small orders—including one for a medium chocolate shake—are subject to this $3.50 'Small Order Fee.' While the McDonald's app provides access to exclusive deals and discounts, even for delivery orders, this particular charge is not a new development.
The company first introduced the small order fee in November 2022, initially setting a $12 threshold to avoid it. This move was part of a broader strategy to manage delivery costs, but it has since become a point of contention among cost-conscious consumers.
Comparison with Third-Party Delivery Services
While DoorDash does not impose a specific 'small order fee,' it does levy various other charges for McDonald's deliveries. In New York, a $5.29 McChicken order on DoorDash can incur a $1.99 delivery fee, a $3 service fee, and a $1.99 'NYC Regulatory Response Fee.' After taxes and fees, that seemingly affordable sandwich balloons to $12.74.
A DoorDash spokesperson defended their pricing model, stating, "At DoorDash, our approach to fees is guided by foundational principles including fairness and transparency. There are no hidden fees, junk fees or surprises at checkout. We're upfront on pricing. You will always see what you will pay, including fees, before you ever checkout." Other food delivery services, such as Postmates and Uber Eats, maintain similar fee policies.
Broader Pricing Controversies and Market Position
This small delivery order fee is not the first instance where McDonald's has been accused of stealthily raising prices. In 2024, the chain faced significant backlash when a viral social media post showcased Big Mac combos costing $18 or more, symbolizing post-pandemic price hikes in the fast-food industry. In response, McDonald's introduced a $5 meal deal that summer and collaborated with US franchisees to reduce combo-meal prices, reinforcing its commitment to affordability.
"McDonald's is not going to get beat on value and affordability," CEO Chris Kempczinski emphasized during an investor call at the time. Despite these efforts, the chain's pricing strategies continue to draw scrutiny.
McDonald's remains one of the world's largest franchises, though it was recently dethroned as the biggest by the Chinese cafe chain Mixue Ice Cream & Tea. As the company navigates these pricing challenges, it continues to innovate with new menu additions, such as the 'Big Arch' burger launched in 2026, in an attempt to win back customer loyalty.
