Order from Amazon, Flipkart, Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart? understand hidden cost in your bill and save Rs…

Quick commerce portals offer excellent services and can be good for emergencies, but check price breakdowns and make informed choices.

When ordering from e-commerce platforms like Flipkart or quick commerce portals such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart, it’s essential to pay attention to the price breakdown (Bill Summary). In the rush to add items to your cart and complete payment via UPI, you might end up paying much more than necessary, sometimes significantly more.

Reality of Extra Charges

E-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon have become household names, delivering to even the smallest towns. Similarly, quick commerce portals like Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart are integral to the daily lives of those in metro cities. While these apps provide convenience, have you ever seen the final amount before placing an order?

Decoding Price Breakdown

Through the service charges like packaging or delivery fees are common charges and justified as long as the customer finds value in the service. However, understanding the cost breakdown could help you make smarter choices.

For instance, when you order a product from Flipkart, you might see charges such as Platform Fee, Handling Fee, and Secure Packaging Fee. But here’s a twist: there’s now a Protect Promise Fee, a cost you pay to ensure that the promised delivery date is honored by the platform. Essentially, you’re being charged for what the platform already guarantees.

Closer Look At Quick Commerce Portals

This isn’t limited to Flipkart. On platforms like Blinkit and Zepto, you often pay more than the product’s MRP. For example:

A dark chocolate bar with an MRP of Rs 200 costs Rs 210, a 5% increase. For smaller items, the extra cost can be even more. A chocolate priced at Rs 103 could end up costing Rs 142 nearly 40% more.

When it comes to essentials like milk, buying just one or two packets results in a disproportionately high cost. Even if you order three packets, the total will still exceed what you’d pay at your local store.

Case With Delivery Charges

Delivery fees are common across platforms, but handling charges also come into play. This means that even if delivery is free for larger orders, you’re still paying extra for these hidden costs.

Before placing an order, take a moment to check the price breakdown. If it’s feasible, consider buying smaller items like chocolates or milk from your local grocery store. 

These platforms are invaluable during late-night emergencies, and also for bulk purchases, delivery fees are often waived, but the handling charges remain the same.