“Free delivery” is one of the most common offers in online shopping, but the terms attached to it vary considerably between retailers. Reading the small print before checkout can save you from an unexpected charge appearing at the last step.

Minimum spend thresholds

Many free delivery offers only apply above a certain order value. If your basket falls just short of the threshold, it is worth checking whether adding a small item actually costs less than the delivery charge you would otherwise pay, since this is not always the case.

Exclusions on certain items or postcodes

Some free delivery promotions exclude particular product categories, oversized items, or delivery to certain postcodes, including some offshore or rural areas. These exclusions are usually listed in the offer’s terms rather than shown prominently on the product page, so it is worth checking before you assume delivery will be free.

Standard delivery only

A free delivery offer often applies to the slowest available delivery option, with faster or named-day delivery still charged at the usual rate. If timing matters for your order, it is worth checking the estimated delivery date shown at checkout rather than assuming the fastest option is included.

Time-limited promotions

Free delivery is sometimes offered as a short-term promotion rather than a standing policy, particularly around sale periods. An offer that applies today may not be available if you return to complete the same order a few days later, so it is worth completing a purchase while a time-limited offer is active if you are ready to buy.

CheckoutDeals lists current deals and discount codes, including delivery-related offers, so you can check what is genuinely included before you reach checkout.