Shocking examples of excessive delivery charges have been shared with Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Maree Todd with one constituent in Brora reporting paying £32 for the delivery of an item which originally advertised standard UK delivery as £6.99.
Responses highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by consumers across the region, with many reporting inflated delivery fees, lengthy delays and retailers refusing to deliver to Highland and island postcodes altogether.
Examples included:
“There are UK retailers that do not even send items to the isles. Not small ones, not big ones. None. We are classed as “offshore locations”. Some exclude us no matter what. Others quote eyewatering prices for shipping. With couriers that claim delivery at handover to subcontractors… hence eyewatering prices for a dismal service” – Stronsay
“I frequently go through the process of finding a supplier but I then get to the check out to be hit by a surcharge. Sometimes you cannot get the price online, you have to contact the company so they can work out the delivery fee. Many offer free delivery to the Scottish central belt but charge us. On £50 packaging we will have a £25 charge, on £350 the charge goes up to £50 but remains free for Glasgow etc.” – Applecross
“The order was initially accepted and payment taken from my account, so I went ahead and ordered fittings for the water butt which had quickly been dispatched before I received a message that the seller did not deliver to my area for the £6.99 p&p quoted and my money would be reimbursed automatically. (Delivery rearranged for £32.)” – Brora
Commenting, Maree Todd MSP said:
“The experiences shared with me are deeply frustrating and, unfortunately, all too familiar for people living in the Highlands & Islands.
“Whether it is excessive delivery charges, arbitrary postcode restrictions or retailers refusing to deliver altogether, people in our communities are being treated unfairly.
“These accounts demonstrate why action is needed. Retailers and couriers must be held to account where charges are excessive or unjustified.
“Existing market protections clearly do not go far enough – the UK Government must take meaningful steps to deliver a fairer system for consumers.
“I have already written to UK ministers, who have the powers to intervene, and I will continue to press for action to ensure people in the Highlands & Islands are no longer disadvantaged simply because of their postcode.”
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