Amazon Launches New 30-Minute Delivery in Major U.S. Cities to Challenge Rivals

Amazon is rolling out an ultra-fast delivery service in two major American cities. The new “30-Minute Delivery” option launched in Seattle and Philadelphia. This move directly challenges established quick-commerce services.The service promises delivery of thousands of household items in half an hour or less. Customers can order groceries, electronics, and home essentials. Amazon is leveraging a network of small, local fulfillment hubs to make it possible.

How Amazon’s New Ultra-Fast Delivery Service Works

Prime members can access the service for a $3.99 fee per order. Non-Prime members face a much higher cost of $13.99. Orders under $15 will also incur a small basket fee.The company is using specialized micro-fulfillment centers. These hubs are placed close to residential and business areas. This reduces travel time for delivery drivers and speeds up the entire process.According to Reuters, this is Amazon’s latest attempt to capture the instant delivery market. The company previously shut down its one-hour “Prime Now” service in 2021. This new venture represents a refined and faster strategy.

The Broader Instant Delivery War Heats Up

Amazon’s launch intensifies competition with companies like DoorDash and Instacart. The quick-commerce sector has seen rapid growth and consolidation. Amazon’s massive logistics network gives it a significant advantage.For consumers, this means more choices and potentially lower prices. It also raises the bar for delivery speed expectations across the industry. Other services may need to respond with faster options or better perks.The company recently tested a 15-minute service in the United Arab Emirates. Some orders there arrived in just six minutes. This U.S. expansion shows Amazon’s serious commitment to dominating fast delivery.

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Amazon’s new 30-minute delivery service is a major escalation in the battle for instant customer gratification. Its success in Seattle and Philadelphia will likely dictate a rapid nationwide rollout. This move fundamentally reshapes the competitive landscape for grocery and essential delivery.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: How much does Amazon’s 30-minute delivery cost?

For Prime members, the fee is $3.99 per order. Non-Prime members must pay $13.99. A small basket fee also applies to orders under $15.

Q2: What can I order for 30-minute delivery?

Eligible items include groceries like milk and eggs, home essentials, over-the-counter medicine, and basic electronics. The selection includes thousands of common household products.

Q3: Is this service available everywhere?

Currently, it is only available in select areas of Seattle and Philadelphia. Customers must check the Amazon app to see if their specific address is within the delivery zone.

Q4: How is Amazon able to deliver this fast?

They use a network of small fulfillment centers located very close to neighborhoods. This minimizes the distance drivers travel from the warehouse to your door.

Q5: Why is Amazon launching this service now?

The company is aggressively competing in the fast-growing instant delivery market. It aims to win customers from rivals like Instacart and Uber Eats by leveraging its vast logistics network.

Q6: Did Amazon try fast delivery before?

Yes. It previously operated a one-hour “Prime Now” service, which was discontinued. This new 30-minute model is a faster, more streamlined version of that earlier concept.