More and more supermarkets and online stores have started offering home delivery services, allowing customers to shop without leaving their homes and receive products at their doorstep. One of the most popular chains is Walmart, and now Amazon has implemented this service to compete with the retail giant. But which one is cheaper?
Recently, Amazon announced that you can now order perishable foods through its platform and have them delivered to your home the same day. For Prime members, this service is free on orders over $25; if the amount is lower, a fee of $2.99 applies.
On the other hand, Walmart’s Delivery Unlimited members enjoy unlimited grocery deliveries for $98 per year or $12.95 per month, regardless of the order total. This makes it more economical than Amazon, considering the regular number of orders a consumer typically makes in a year. Below, we explain each of these services in detail.
What is Amazon’s food delivery service like?
You can order groceries available from Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and a variety of local supermarkets and retailers. Perishable items include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Dairy
- Meat
- Seafood
- Baked goods
- Frozen products
The company’s temperature-controlled distribution system ensures you receive fresh products in optimal condition. Each item undergoes a rigorous six-point check upon arrival and again before delivery. Temperature-sensitive products are transported in recyclable thermal bags, compatible with most curbside recycling programs, the same ones used for Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market deliveries, ensuring the food stays at the proper temperature until it reaches the customer.
You can order your groceries on Amazon, pay in a single cart, and receive your entire purchase within hours. The cost of this service depends on whether you have a membership:
- Prime members: Same-day delivery is free on orders over $25 in most cities. For orders under $25, there is a $2.99 fee.
- Non-Prime customers: Regardless of the order size, the service costs $12.99.
How Much Does a Prime Membership Cost?
Currently, a Prime membership costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. Discounted memberships are also available, offering the same benefits—including free shipping on over 300 million items, exclusive deals, and special savings—for only 50% of the regular price, for eligible customers.
Young adults between 18 and 24 years old, as well as college students, can try Prime at a discounted rate for six months, then continue at a reduced price of $7.49 per month or $69 per year. Those receiving government assistance can try Prime Access for 30 days and then pay only $6.99 per month.
Can I shop on Amazon without a membership?
Yes, you can make purchases even if you don’t have an Amazon Prime subscription. Being a Prime member is not required to shop, but without it, you won’t have access to exclusive benefits such as free two-day shipping on select items or early access to special deals.
What is Walmart’s food delivery service like?
Delivery Unlimited allows users to avoid the charge per order, which is typically up to $9.95, and instead, opt for a monthly subscription of $12.95 or an annual fee of $98. With this option, customers have access to a wide selection of around 100,000 products, which vary depending on the season and location. Orders are delivered within three to four hours of completion.
The selection includes items like:
- Fresh food
- Pantry staples
- Toys
- Microwaves
- Vacuums
- Bedding
- Office supplies
- Kitchen utensils
