Ordering from IKEA is a popular option for anyone looking to furnish a home without spending a fortune. While their flat-pack furniture and accessories are affordable, many people wonder how much it actually costs to have their order delivered. The answer depends on what you're buying, how much of it there is, and where you want it delivered. IKEA offers a few delivery options, and prices vary based on size, weight and delivery method.
Different Delivery Options Explained
IKEA offers several types of delivery, each priced differently. Smaller items like home accessories, lighting, textiles and kitchenware can be sent through parcel delivery, which is handled by standard couriers. Larger items like furniture, sofas, beds and wardrobes are sent through truck delivery, which involves scheduled time slots and usually requires someone to be home to accept the delivery.
Parcel Delivery Costs
Parcel delivery is the most affordable option and is available for lightweight, non-bulky items. The cost typically starts at a flat rate and increases slightly depending on the size of the order. It’s ideal for small homeware purchases that don’t require special handling. This service is usually fast and includes tracking so you know when to expect your parcel. While prices may vary slightly by region or during peak times, they are generally consistent and predictable.
Large Item Delivery Costs
For larger furniture orders, IKEA uses its own delivery network or trusted third-party couriers to deliver directly to your home. This service is more expensive than parcel delivery and is priced based on distance and order size. Delivery costs are typically charged at a flat rate per order, not per item, which helps if you’re buying several pieces at once. You’ll be given a choice of available time slots, and someone needs to be present at the address to receive the delivery.
Room of Choice and Assembly Services
For an extra fee, IKEA offers the option to have your order delivered to a specific room in your home, not just the doorstep. This is helpful if you're ordering bulky or heavy furniture. In some areas, assembly services are also available, where a team will come and put everything together for you. These services aren’t included in the basic delivery cost and must be booked in advance. The pricing for assembly depends on the number of items and the complexity of what needs to be built.
Click and Collect as an Alternative
If you're trying to save on delivery fees, click and collect is another option. You can place your order online and pick it up from your nearest IKEA store or designated collection point. While this service may be free or carry a minimal charge, it does require transport on your part, especially if you're collecting larger items.
Regional Price Differences
Delivery pricing may vary slightly based on your location. Rural or remote areas may face higher charges or longer wait times for larger deliveries. IKEA’s delivery booking system takes your postcode into account and shows available delivery dates and prices during checkout. It’s always a good idea to check this early in the process to avoid surprises.
Free Delivery Isn’t Common
Unlike some online retailers that offer free delivery once you hit a certain spend threshold, IKEA rarely includes free delivery as standard. Even large orders typically incur a flat fee. Occasionally, IKEA runs promotional offers with free or discounted delivery, but these are limited-time deals and tend to apply only to specific product categories or spending brackets. If you’re expecting free delivery based on how much you spend, you’ll likely be disappointed unless there’s a live offer running at the time.
Delivery Times and Scheduling
When you book delivery, especially for larger items, you’ll be asked to choose a date and sometimes a time slot. Delivery slots can fill up quickly, particularly during busy seasons or when new ranges have just launched. If you’re moving home or working on a deadline, it’s worth checking delivery availability early in the shopping process. In most areas, you’ll be able to choose a slot within a few days, but in high-demand periods or more rural locations, it could take longer.
Partial Deliveries and Backorders
If you order several items, not all of them may be available for immediate delivery. IKEA sometimes splits deliveries, sending what’s in stock first and the rest later when it becomes available. You won’t usually be charged twice for delivery, but you should be aware that your order may not arrive all in one go. This is especially common with furniture sets, bed frames, and wardrobes where certain components are temporarily out of stock.
What Happens If You're Not Home
If you've scheduled a large-item delivery and you're not in when the driver arrives, the delivery won’t be completed. Unlike small parcels that can be left with a neighbour or in a safe place, larger furniture orders need someone present to receive them. In many cases, you’ll be charged for a redelivery or may need to contact IKEA to rebook, which can delay things further. It’s important to be home during your chosen time slot or make arrangements in advance if that won’t be possible.
Damage and Returns
If any part of your order arrives damaged, IKEA has a returns and replacements process in place. You’ll need to report the issue within a set timeframe and may be asked to provide photos. For damaged items, a free return or replacement is usually arranged, and IKEA will often cover the collection. However, if you’ve simply changed your mind or ordered the wrong item, return costs may apply depending on the size of the product and the return method.
Sustainability and Delivery
IKEA is gradually rolling out more sustainable delivery options in line with its environmental goals. In some urban areas, electric vehicles are being used for home delivery to cut emissions. The company is also working towards using recyclable packaging and reducing waste during the delivery process. While this doesn't impact the cost directly right now, it’s part of their wider strategy and may influence how deliveries are handled in future.
Summary
Delivery from IKEA ranges from low-cost parcel delivery for small items to higher flat-rate truck delivery for larger furniture orders. Costs are influenced by item size, order value, location and any extra services such as assembly or room placement. While not the cheapest delivery option on the market, IKEA’s service is reliable, flexible, and designed to handle everything from a single lamp to a full room of furniture. Whether you're furnishing a flat or just need a new desk chair, knowing your delivery options helps you plan the total cost more accurately.