New online map shows parcel delivery prices by postcode
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AN ONLINE parcel delivery pricing map has been launched to help residents of rural communities identify unfair delivery charges and find the best deals.
After entering a postcode, the website compares charges for a range of parcel sizes from six major companies. Users from around Scotland can also find which online UK retailers deliver to their area.
The free service, launched yesterday, August 9, at www.fairdeliveries.scot, is part of the Scottish Government’s ongoing action to make delivery charges more transparent.
Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said: "Consumers in Moray, and across the north of Scotland, have been expected to fork out huge sums of money for years on these unfair delivery surcharges. Last year alone, these extra surcharges cost people in Moray an eye-watering £2.78 million.
"Although some retailers and couriers have acknowledged the problem, far too many continue to charge customers in Moray sky-high delivery surcharges. Quite simply, shoppers and local business in Moray shouldn’t face added fees because of their postcode.
"This new website will help to make it easier for everyone – particularly those in rural communities like Moray – to identify unfair surcharges, find the best deal for purchases and encourage companies to review their pricing.
"Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people using online shopping. Now, more than ever, delivery charges across the UK should be fair and transparent, and people should have the information they need to make informed choices."
Business Minister Jamie Hepburn said research for the new resource uncovered "shocking" stories of unfair charges, including a resident in Moray who was asked to pay an additional £50 for the delivery of a mobility scooter despite the website advertising free delivery across the UK.
Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) is campaigning to bring an end to unfair parcel delivery surcharges and the non-delivery of parcels. Its chief executive, Derek Mitchell, said: "The research carried out by the Citizens Advice network over the last decade has shown that many people who live in remote and rural areas of Scotland feel that they are dealing with unfair delivery practices.
"Higher prices and a lack of transparency on pricing policies are all too common. CAS welcomes the website and publications launched by Scottish Government and hopes that they are useful for consumers."
The Parcel Delivery Map and Interactive Data Hub figures will be updated monthly.
Moray Citizens Advice Bureau is running a Fairer Delivery Charges for Moray survey, which can be accessed using the link https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/fairerdeliverychargesformoray.
