Amazon Launches Multi-Tiered Fast Delivery Services Across US Cities

Amazon doubles down on speed, unveiling 30-minute delivery in select U.S. cities alongside expanded one- and three-hour options.

Amazon has announced a new suite of delivery options, including a 30-minute service and expanded one-hour and three-hour services, across hundreds of US cities. The company outlined specific pricing, product categories, and operational strategies for each new offering.

Key Announcements

• Amazon Now (30-minute delivery): Launched on Tuesday, this service is available in Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Philadelphia, and Seattle. Amazon plans to expand to Austin, Denver, Houston, Minneapolis, Orlando, Oklahoma City, and Phoenix, with a goal of covering tens of millions of customers by the end of the year. A pilot test began in Seattle and Philadelphia in December 2025.
• One-hour and three-hour delivery: The one-hour service is available in hundreds of cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., as well as smaller locations such as Des Moines, Boise, and American Fork. The three-hour service is available in approximately 2,000 US cities and towns.

Eligible Products

• Amazon Now: Offers thousands of items, including fresh groceries (produce, dairy, eggs, bakery), household essentials, personal care, baby and pet products, electronics, and alcohol where permitted. Eligible items are marked with a "30-minute delivery" banner in the Amazon app and website.
• One-hour and three-hour services: Over 90,000 items are eligible, including household items, cleaning supplies, over-the-counter medications, apparel, and toys. Users can identify these items through a specific label in the app or via a dedicated storefront and a search filter.

Pricing Structure

Pricing varies based on delivery speed and Amazon Prime membership status.

Operational Strategy

• Amazon Now: The 30-minute service utilizes smaller fulfillment centers located closer to customers, with a limited selection of products to enable faster delivery. Service is available 24/7 in most areas.
• One-hour and three-hour services: Amazon stated it will use its existing same-day fulfillment sites to support the new delivery options.

Company Statement

Udit Madan, Senior Vice President of Amazon Worldwide Operations, said customers are seeking ways to save time while managing their households. He stated that Amazon saw an opportunity to use its operational expertise and delivery network to offer faster options.

Historical Context

This is not Amazon's first rapid delivery program. The company discontinued its "Prime Now" one-hour delivery service in 2021, which had launched in 2014. Amazon has also experimented with quick commerce internationally, including a 15-minute delivery service in the United Arab Emirates and a 10-minute grocery service in India. The company continues to test drone delivery, "Prime Air," in eight US locations for deliveries under 60 minutes.