Money alert: Amazon scraps 'free' delivery

Amazon shocked its millions of users this week by telling them that delivery would no longer be free for items costing less than £10.

In future, the firm said, free "super saver delivery" will only be offered if you spend more than a tenner or buy books, DVDs, Blu-ray, music, video games and software. While the move seems odd – after all, the company has virtually cornered the online market through its low charges – it is probably not the first change the company will make to its fees.

So check costs before you click on "buy", and look at other options that could prove cheaper than the online giant.

Many traditional High Street retailers, for instance, allow you to order online and pick up at a local store. Or you could avoid the delivery charge by adding low-cost items to your bill. As long as they are from Amazon, you will still qualify for free delivery.