What is slot delivery?
Slot delivery (also referred to as time-slot delivery, delivery within time windows, or scheduled delivery) is a type of delivery service where the customer selects an exact day and time window (e.g. 5:00–7:00 PM) for receiving their parcel. The courier then delivers precisely on that day and within that time window — not earlier, not later.
Compared to standard delivery, this model brings a major advantage: predictability, reliability, and convenience. Customers do not need to stay home all day “on standby” or negotiate where the parcel ended up — they know when and where it will arrive and can rely on it.
How does slot delivery work?
- The customer selects a specific delivery day and time window in the e-shop checkout — for example Tuesday 2:00–4:00 PM.
- The DODO system links the order with courier capacity and assigns it to the optimal route.
- The courier arrives on the selected day and within the selected time window. The customer does not need to handle anything.
Slot delivery can be easily integrated into most e-commerce platforms (Shoptet, Shopify, etc.) via API or via the DODO widget, which is the simplest integration option for e-shops and provides a professional, clear calendar for customers to choose delivery day and time.
Advantages of slot delivery
✅ For customers:
- Precise delivery – the customer knows exactly when the parcel will be delivered
- Better planning – waiting for the courier does not block the entire day
- Higher comfort – evening, weekend, or anytime delivery that fits the schedule
✅ For e-shops:
- Fewer returns and complaints
- Fewer calls like “When will it arrive?”
- Higher customer satisfaction and loyalty
- Higher checkout conversion rate thanks to greater freedom of choice
Real-life examples
- Eva, 36, Prague: Works until late afternoon. She sets her slot between 7:00–9:00 PM.
- László, 62, Budapest: He is out in the morning but home after 2 PM. The pharmacy delivers exactly within his chosen window.
- Anna, 29, Berlin, home office: Uses her lunch break. The courier delivers between 11:30 AM–12:30 PM, during her lunch block.
Why do e-shops need slot delivery?
From the customer’s perspective, traditional delivery has become an uncomfortable standard. People want choice and control. Slot delivery provides both. E-shops that offer it stand out from the competition — especially international competitors.
89% of customers want delivery within a chosen time window.
80% would prefer an e-shop that offers this option.
Summary
Slot delivery is like inviting a guest to your home: you wouldn’t tell them to arrive sometime tomorrow. You agree on an exact time. And the same should apply to a parcel from an e-shop.
