The Fine Print: Hidden Fees to Watch Out for in Cannabis Delivery Deals
The growing popularity of cannabis delivery is revealing a downside—some offers and discounts aren’t as straightforward as they initially sound. The promise of discounted products, BOGO (buy-one-get-one) promotions, or “free delivery” can be incredibly tempting—but before you click “Place Order,” there’s often some fine print that can turn a good deal into a costly surprise.
As a regular delivery customer, I’ve seen firsthand how extra fees and policy quirks can sneak into what initially looks like a straightforward transaction. Here’s a look at the most common hidden fees to keep an eye out for when ordering cannabis delivery.
1. Delivery Minimums and Surcharges
One of the first things to watch is the order minimum. Some dispensaries advertise “free delivery,” but it only applies if you hit a certain spend threshold—say, $75 or even $100. If your order falls short, a delivery fee can automatically get added. Others charge tiered delivery fees based on your distance from the store, even if you’re just a few blocks past their “free zone.”
Additionally, some dispensaries tack on a “service fee” or “logistics charge” at checkout that’s not mentioned until you’re ready to pay. This fee can range from $3 to $10 and is often labeled vaguely, making it seem mandatory when it might not be.
2. Taxes Aren’t Always Included in Advertised Prices
This one gets tricky. Many cannabis delivery platforms display product prices without including local, state, or excise taxes. Depending on your state, taxes can tack on an additional 10–30% to your total. You might think you’re getting a great deal on a $40 eighth, only to see it balloon to nearly $55 after fees and taxes are calculated.
Some dispensaries do a better job of being transparent up front, so always check the full cart total before committing. Don’t assume the price you see on the menu is what you’ll pay at the door.
3. Promotions That Require Add-Ons
Ever notice that some BOGO deals require you to manually add the second item to your cart? If you don’t, you might miss out entirely. Or worse, if you do add it and forget to enter the promo code, you’ll be charged full price. Some platforms also require purchasing a non-discounted product in order to unlock a delivery deal, which isn’t always made clear upfront.
It’s a subtle tactic that places the burden on the customer to “unlock” the value—essentially forcing you to spend more or pay close attention to all promo conditions.
4. Driver Tip Expectations
While tipping is customary and fair—especially for hard-working drivers—it’s important to note that some delivery services pre-select a tip amount during checkout. I’ve had orders where a 20% tip was added automatically without a clear prompt to adjust it. If you’re not careful, that $80 order can unexpectedly turn into $96.
Take a second look at your receipt before finalizing your purchase to ensure you’re comfortable with the gratuity amount.
5. Restocking or Cancellation Fees
Lastly, keep an eye on the dispensary’s cancellation or order change policies. Some charge restocking fees if you change your mind after placing an order. Others won’t issue refunds if you miss your delivery window or if ID issues arise at the door.
Bottom Line: Cannabis delivery is convenient and fast, but the deals are not always as generous as they seem. Always review the fine print, take your time during checkout, and question any unexpected charges. The best customers are the most informed ones.