Free beats fast, at least when it comes to shipping.
Eighty-seven percent of online shoppers in a new survey said having their holiday purchases delivered for free is more important than getting them fast.
The research, conducted by consulting firm Deloitte, also shows consumers’ shipping expectations are changing.
Ninety-two percent of respondents believe fast shipping means receiving their deliveries within two days, while 60 percent expect free shipping on orders made after Dec. 17.
The survey reveals other preferences too.
Forty-three percent of holiday shoppers expect to make a purchase online and pick up the order in a store, primarily to save on shipping costs.
A survey last month by the National Retail Federation also predicts an uptick in in-store pickups this holiday season.