A FedEx white paper emphasizes the significance of offering free delivery to consumers.

A recent white paper by FedEx and Morning Consult reveals that consumers increasingly expect free shipping, with 75% prioritizing it over speedy delivery. Key findings show that 57% of shoppers emphasize free shipping when buying online, and 81% are willing to spend more to qualify for it, despite only 48% of retailers offering this option. Additionally, 62% of consumers value return policies highly, while 40% prefer next-day home delivery. The data indicates a significant shift towards cost-saving over speed in shipping preferences, suggesting retailers should adapt to these evolving consumer expectations.