ANALYZING CONSUMER TRADE-OFFS: FREE SHIPPING VS FASTER DELIVERY IN E-COMMERCE PURCHASE DECISION

Authors:

M Hemalalitha, Student, II MBA, Nehru Institute of Technology Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu E-mail: hemalalitha2062004@gmail.com

Mr. B. Thirumoorthi, Assistant Professor (SG) Department of Management Studies, Nehru institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

ABSTRACT:

The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly transformed consumer purchasing behaviour in recent years. Delivery-related factors such as free shipping and faster delivery have become important determinants influencing online purchase decisions. This study aims to analyze the trade-off between free shipping and faster delivery in e-commerce purchase decisions. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical research design using both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected from 210 respondents through a structured questionnaire. Statistical tools such as percentage analysis, correlation, regression, ANOVA, and chi-square tests were applied using SPSS. The findings indicate that consumers show a positive perception towards both free shipping and faster delivery. However, inferential analysis reveals that the relationship between delivery options and purchase decision is weak and not statistically significant in some cases. The study also identifies that factors such as income level, urgency, and perceived value influence consumer preference. The study concludes that e-commerce companies should adopt a balanced strategy by offering both cost-effective and time-efficient delivery options to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

KEYWORDS:

E-commerce, Consumer Behaviour, Free Shipping, Faster Delivery, Purchase Decision, Perceived Value