Home Delivery Options During the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals are staying home to help slow the spread of illness. Going to the store or running other errands may not be possible at this time, especially for individuals at high risk.

Home delivery options

Thankfully, a variety of items can be delivered directly to the home. Delivery options include, but are not limited to, the following:

Food

• Grocery stores may have their own delivery service or may partner with an outside delivery service.
• Some restaurants offer their own delivery service. Orders can also be placed through a third-party food delivery service. Some restaurants and small businesses, such as local ice cream or coffee shops, that do not normally offer delivery may offer it during this time.
• Amazon.com delivers food products via Amazon Pantry.
• Meal-kit delivery services provide fresh ingredients that can be combined with pantry staples to make tasty meals.
• Local farms and farmers’ markets may also offer delivery.

Prescriptions

• Several major pharmacy chains offer home delivery of prescriptions.
• Various online pharmacies are also available. These pharmacies deliver maintenance medications on a regular, automated basis. Online pharmacies may be affiliated with an insurance company or may be independently operated.

Personal care or household supplies

Some delivery apps offer more than just food. Some partner with pharmacies or other stores to deliver personal care items, cleaning supplies, and other household items.

Home improvement items

Some hardware stores offer same-day delivery. This can be useful in the event of a home-repair emergency.

Electronics

Some electronics stores offer same-day delivery of home office technology, electronic health and fitness items, appliances, and other devices.

Other items

Certain delivery apps are not associated with specific restaurants or stores. These services can be used for delivery of items at any stores that are open to shoppers.

Delivery safety

While delivery is generally safe and allows at-risk individuals to stay at home, some precautions should be taken:

• Whenever possible, request a “no contact” delivery. Delivered items will be left at the front door or another specified location. All payments, including any tips, are made through a website or app to prevent any physical contact.
• Thoroughly wash the hands with soap and water after unpacking groceries or other items.
• Disinfect the outside of plastic or metal items.
• Items made of paper should be left for 3-4 days before being touched. If the paper is just the outside packaging of a product, it should be removed and placed in the garbage/recycle (depending on local rules). Any fresh fruits and vegetables should be washed with soap and water, unless they will be peeled and cooked prior to eating.
• When food is delivered from a restaurant, thoroughly wash the hands and wipe down the outside of the delivery container. Carefully transfer the food to properly sanitized dishes without touching the dishes or the food with the hands. Discard the delivery containers and then thoroughly wash the hands before touching the face or eating.