What Does "Change Shipping Speed" Mean on Amazon in 2024? (Full Guide)

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Amazon‘s incredible selection of affordable products and ultra-fast shipping helped make it the largest e-commerce retailer worldwide. In 2022, Amazon accounted for nearly 40% of all U.S. e-commerce spending.

With ever-accelerating delivery times, what does it mean when Amazon gives you the option to "change shipping speed" during checkout or when managing an order? Let‘s break it down.

Rescheduling Your Amazon Delivery

The "change shipping speed" option allows you to adjust the exact timing of when you receive your Amazon order. Rather than choosing a generalized 1-day or 5-day delivery window, you can:

  • Pick a specific date for arrival
  • Select a more precise timeframe like morning or evening
  • Upgrade to faster shipping if needed urgently
  • Downgrade to standard shipping to save costs

Being able to alter delivery details gives you added flexibility. Customize based on when you know you‘ll be available to receive the package.

Amazon Prime Perks

Part of the appeal of an Amazon Prime membership ($139/year or $14.99/month) is unlimited free two-day shipping. In 2024, Amazon expanded Prime‘s 1-day delivery reach to over 100 million products, with 10 million qualifying for same-day delivery.

Plus, Prime members get extra benefits allowing them to better customize Amazon shipping:

  • Free Ultrafast Grocery Delivery – In eligible areas, grocery orders over $35 ship in 2 hours or less
  • Amazon Day Delivery – Choose any weekday to receive all eligible orders together
  • Amazon Prime Try Before You Buy – Preview select items for a week before placing the order

Having a Prime membership enables you to adjust delivery to fit your schedule thanks to faster baseline shipping alternatives.

Handling Amazon Orders Already Shipped

Once your package gets handed off to a delivery carrier, your ability to reroute Amazon shipping diminishes. At that point, your best recourse is contacting Amazon Customer Service to see if other accommodations can be made:

  • Pick Up at Local Post Office – When expecting delays in receiving a home delivery, this is the easiest option
  • Return to Sender – If you no longer need the package and want a refund
  • Extended Absence Delivery – When vacationing or away from home for 1-2 weeks

Though not ideal, calling Amazon in case of a post-shipping emergency gives you a chance to redirect your order.

Comparing 2023 Amazon Shipping Speeds

While Prime members enjoy the fastest free options, Amazon does offer varied shipping speeds based on needs:

Shipping TypeDelivery TimeAvailable For
Amazon Prime Free One-Day Shipping1 business dayOver 10 million Prime eligible products
Amazon Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery5 hours – full daySelect areas, orders $35+
Amazon Prime FREE Two-Day Shipping2 business days100+ million Prime eligible items
Amazon Prime FREE Two-Hour Delivery120 minutesGroceries, household items, gifts in select cities
FREE Amazon Day Delivery1 scheduled weekdayAll customers, Prime & non-Prime
Two-Day Shipping2 business daysExtra cost for non-Prime members
Standard Shipping5-8 business daysLowest cost option

Eligibility for the fastest Prime deliveries depends on proximity to major Amazon Warehouses and Fulfillment Centers. But Amazon services over 72% of the total U.S. population, so speedy shipping reaches most areas.

Expert Tips For Ordering With Customizable Shipping

As an e-commerce analyst, here is my advice for getting Amazon orders when you need them:

  • Prioritize Prime – Upgrade from a free trial to paid membership for greatest access to same-day, one-day and two-hour shipments
  • Review Estimated Arrivals Before Final Checkout – Amazon provides a delivery date estimate early in checkout process so you can switch speeds if needed
  • Add to Cart Instead of Instant Buy – Enables you to batch Prime-eligible items for consolidated Amazon Day Delivery
  • Set Default for Faster Shipping – Choose your frequently-used Prime delivery option as the one-click default for each order
  • Look For Early Guarantees – If an item offers guaranteed delivery by a certain occasion (birthday, holiday), lock that in

Get personalized guidance on selecting and adjusting Amazon shipping speeds by engaging an Amazon Business Expert who assists e-commerce sellers.

Following these tips will ensure you know what to do when you see "change shipping speed" as an option for your Amazon order. You‘ll receive packages reliably on your terms.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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