New research has revealed that three-quarters of shoppers who choose same-day delivery simply want a guaranteed or fast delivery, while just one quarter need the delivery on the day.
The findings were derived from a survey of an independent panel of 1,005 Australians, commissioned by parcel collection network, Hubbed.
The Hubbed network comprises more than 2000 locations, including petrol stations, convenience stores, parcel lockers and independent retail outlets.
They found that 48 per cent of online shoppers who choose same-day delivery need their parcel within two to three days, and 24 per cent of Aussies select same-day delivery as a guarantee that their parcel will actually arrive, while 28 per cent say they need their order the same day.
Across states, a larger proportion of Western Australian residents (63 per cent) admit they usually need a parcel within two to three days, despite selecting same-day delivery, compared with 49 per cent of Victorians and 41 per cent of ACT residents.
People aged older than 50 are more likely to select same-day delivery as a guarantee that their parcel will actually arrive, at 34 per cent, compared with 17 per cent of 18 to 50-year-olds.
David McLean, CEO and founder of Hubbed, says that online retail sales grew by around 66 per cent from March to December last year, and shoppers expect a seamless experience.
“Given the fact that most online orders aren’t needed urgently, the availability of same-day delivery options is placing additional pressure on retailers to process orders in tight timeframes, as well couriers, who are already handling unprecedented parcel volumes.
“Given this, it may be important for retailers to ensure other delivery choices are available to customers, such as click and collect. This allows customers to have more control over their parcel deliveries and ensures the swift delivery of items without the pressure of having to fulfil orders within a day.”
Most shoppers prefer alternative parcel collections. From the survey, Hubbed found that 59 per cent of respondents find locations such as petrol stations or parcel lockers easier to collect parcels from. Specifically, 18 per cent thought parcel lockers were the easiest location, while 11 per cent chose small independent local businesses with extended operating hours.
Hubbed also asked respondents to select the collection location they believe offers the most security for their parcels. Nearly half (45 per cent) said alternative collection locations, including small independent local businesses, were the most secure for parcel collections. Specifically, 17 per cent said parcel lockers are the most secure location to collect parcels from, while 10 per cent chose small independent businesses with extended hours.
McLean added: “With online shopping showing no signs of slowing down, offering alternative delivery locations will appeal to consumers. It solves issues around missed deliveries and provides convenience for consumers, who can choose where they receive their parcels. Now that Aussies are returning to the workplace, they may be more inclined to select alternative options, which are open after hours and on weekends.”