CBS News — March 17, 2026
Amazon is rolling out faster delivery options in cities across the United States, now offering one-hour and three-hour delivery windows for customers who want items immediately. The company unveiled the accelerated services Tuesday as it pushes to compete with big-box retailers, local drugstores and other merchants that have been expanding rapid-delivery options as online shopping grows.
GlobalData retail analyst Neil Saunders says the move is especially challenging for drugstores, noting Amazon’s often lower prices on everyday essentials like toothpaste and toilet paper.
Where it’s available
One-hour delivery is live in parts of several major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Nashville, Oklahoma City and Washington, D.C., and in smaller markets such as Des Moines, Boise and American Fork, Utah. Three-hour delivery has broader coverage: Amazon says it’s available in more than 2,000 cities and suburbs, with examples including Cornwall, Pennsylvania; Harrah, Oklahoma; and Arabi, Louisiana. The company plans to expand accelerated delivery to additional locations in the months ahead.
What you can order
A wide range of everyday items qualify for the expedited service, including household supplies (paper towels, toilet paper), health and beauty products, over-the-counter medicines, electronics, toys and clothing.
Pricing
Prime members pay $9.99 for one-hour delivery and $4.99 for three-hour delivery. Non-Prime customers are charged $19.99 for one-hour and $14.99 for three-hour service. Prime members who prefer not to pay extra may still receive free same-day delivery as part of their annual membership, where that option is available.
Amazon’s faster windows mark another step in retailers’ race to make online shopping as immediate as in-store pickup, reshaping expectations for speed and convenience in everyday purchases.