Survey: Consumers will pay for faster shipping

Fast shipping was a popular option during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many consumers will pay a premium to keep receiving it.

According to the “Delivering on Demand: Consumer 2021 Insights Survey” from fleet management solutions provider Omnitracs LLC, a Solera company, 59% of respondents used one-to-two-day shipping at least once a month during the pandemic. They appear to have liked the experience, as the survey reveals about two-thirds (65%) of respondents would be willing to pay more for one-to-two-day shipping. 

And close to one-third (30%) of respondents would pay more for same-day deliveries. The survey also indicates many consumers are open to new delivery technologies, with 45% of respondents saying they are open to seeing drones used for last-mile delivery options.

Close to half (47%) of respondents had groceries, beverages, or alcohol delivered for the first time during the pandemic. COVID-19 also prompted many consumers to leverage online delivery as a low- or no-contact means of purchasing products, as more than half (53%) of respondents experienced instances where they used a delivery service to ensure that themselves or family members were safe. 

Research from the report further reveals that many consumers are looking to businesses to shift to more sustainable practices with 40% of respondents wanting to see more eco-friendly delivery options, such as electric trucks. 
 
“The global health crisis ushered in a new way of living, and consumers have become accustomed to the conveniences that stay-at-home orders have brought to the table. It’s clear that the pandemic-driven shift to deliveries as a primary method of buying goods isn’t going anywhere as restrictions lift,” said Dr. Ashim Bose, chief data and AI officer at Omnitracs.