The 2025 Ryder E-commerce Consumer Study , released by Ryder System on September 16, 2025 , delivers a clear message to retailers: 94% of U.S. consumers prioritize cost savings above all else this holiday season , with flexibility and seamless omnichannel experiences close behind in importance.
The study, grounded in three comprehensive surveys conducted in early 2025 , offers a blueprint for brands facing uncertain demand and inflation-impacted consumer behaviors. Shoppers Shift Focus: Free Shipping and
Discounts Win Out When asked about top holiday purchase motivators, 76% of shoppers cited free shipping , 64% chose holiday sales/discounts , and 31% named free returns as crucial factors in their buying decisions.
As Jeff Wolpov, Senior Vice President of Ryder E-commerce, puts it: The study reveals that promotional levers like free shipping and discounts are now more influential than the promises of two-day (or less) delivery that once defined the Amazon era.
Only 15% of consumers now say super-fast delivery is a top priority , down from 20% a year ago. By comparison, the interest in scheduled delivery—choosing a specific date—has nearly doubled since 2023, rising 15% .
Comparison Shopping and the Rise of Flexible Fulfillment The squeeze from rising prices and economic uncertainty has turned consumers into meticulous deal-hunters. 48% of shoppers say they now compare prices more often , and 43% admit to buying less overall as a reaction to inflation…
