Zepto Free Delivery Now Needs Rs 199: Will You Add More To Your Basket?

Quick-commerce company Zepto has revised the minimum purchase amount customers must meet to qualify for free delivery, raising the threshold from Rs 149 to Rs 199 during regular operating hours.

The company can apply a Rs 299 minimum during periods of heightened demand, according to customer reports.

The latest change reflects the wider efforts of quick-commerce platforms to strengthen their order-level economics while managing delivery expenses and maintaining customer demand.

The increased minimum could encourage shoppers to add additional products to their baskets before completing an order. This strategy may help Zepto raise average order values and improve the profitability of smaller transactions.

The higher threshold could affect customers who use quick-commerce services mainly for small, urgent purchases.

Consumers seeking only a few products may reconsider placing an order if they cannot reach the revised minimum amount.

Zepto’s updated free-delivery threshold brings its pricing structure closer to those of Eternal-owned Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart.

The change comes as India’s quick-commerce sector faces growing competition, with major players experimenting with different pricing strategies to improve margins.

Food-delivery platforms have introduced higher charges in recent months.

In March, Zomato increased its platform fee by around 19 per cent, taking the pre-GST charge to Rs 14.90 per order from Rs 12.50.

Swiggy subsequently raised its platform fee to Rs 17.58 per order from Rs 14.99, representing an increase of around 17 per cent before GST.

The latest move by Zepto highlights how online delivery companies are adjusting pricing structures as they seek stronger financial performance.

Platforms are increasingly modifying delivery fees, minimum order requirements and other charges while attempting to retain their customer base.

The changes could encourage larger baskets and improve unit economics, although companies must balance profitability with the convenience that attracts customers to quick-commerce services.