Tesco, one of the UK's largest supermarket chains, has rolled out a major update to its delivery pricing structure, leaving customers with new costs to consider when shopping online.
The retailer has quietly adjusted its delivery fees, introducing variable rates based on time slots and basket sizes. While some shoppers may benefit from lower charges during off-peak hours, others could face steeper costs for prime-time deliveries.
How the New Delivery Charges Work
Under the revised system:
- Early morning and late evening slots now offer the lowest fees
- Peak times (typically 10am-4pm) carry premium pricing
- Customers spending over £100 may qualify for free delivery in some slots
- Delivery Pass holders remain unaffected by these changes
Customer Reactions
The changes have sparked mixed reactions among Tesco shoppers. Some welcome the opportunity to save by choosing less popular time slots, while others feel penalised for needing deliveries during conventional hours.
"It's frustrating when you work full-time and have limited delivery window options," commented one London-based customer on social media.
Why Tesco Made the Change
Industry analysts suggest the move aims to:
- Better manage delivery demand across the day
- Offset rising operational costs
- Encourage customers towards larger, less frequent shops
The supermarket maintains that the adjustments will ultimately improve service reliability and availability for all customers.
How to Minimise Your Delivery Costs
Shoppers looking to reduce fees can:
- Opt for early morning or late evening slots
- Combine orders with neighbours or family
- Consider switching to a Delivery Pass if ordering frequently
- Plan shops in advance to secure cheaper time slots
The changes come as supermarkets nationwide grapple with balancing customer expectations against rising operational expenses in the competitive online grocery market.
