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Amazon brings same-day delivery to more US cities

Amazon brings same-day delivery to more US cities

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Amazon is getting serious about same-day delivery: today the company rolled out its instant-gratification service across more US cities including Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Baltimore, Dallas, and Indianapolis. Amazon also expanded availability of same-day delivery to a much wider portion of New York City. That's in addition to Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Seattle — locations where same-day item drop-offs are already available. The full list of zip codes eligible can be found here and here.

The speedy deliveries cost Prime members $5.99, an extra charge that covers all items in a single order. It's a bit more expensive for non-subscribers, however. They pay $9.98 for the first item and $0.99 for each additional one, so the convenience of same-day delivery demands a higher premium if you're not paying Amazon $99 for Prime. Orders must be placed by noon to be eligible, and Amazon offers same-day deliveries seven days a week. Not even Sundays can come between you and that thing you just absolutely had to have.

Over 1 million items are eligible for same-day delivery, according to Amazon, though they're all typically small in size. "Amazon will offer same-day delivery for things like everyday household needs, health and beauty, baby items, toys, movies and games, electronics, office supplies, sporting goods, apparel, and home accessories," the company said. Yes, electronics are on the list, but don't expect Amazon to haul a new TV to your door in under 24 hours. Game consoles are about the biggest gadget included in the program. But if you suddenly run out of toothpaste and refuse to leave the house, Amazon's got you covered. The online retailer is aggressively trying to stay ahead of similar, competing services like eBay Now and Google Shopping Express. Reaching the dream of nationwide same-day delivery remains a daunting challenge — even for Jeff Bezos and co. — but Amazon is making strides.

Update: The article originally said Amazon today "rolled out" same-day delivery in New York City. In fact, the service was already available there; today the company expanded availability to a wider area.