Winter changes the plan — here’s how to keep it simple

Calgary moves fast when the roads are clear and slows down when snow and ice show up. Our delivery service keeps running through the season, but the city can add time. This guide shows you how to order, how to write strong address notes, what to expect during cold snaps, and the few things that help drivers find you fast while staying safe.

What winter does to ETAs

On clear roads, most deliveries land in 45 minutes to 2 hours. During heavy snow, freezing rain, or extreme cold, routes take longer. Drivers slow down, leave more space, and avoid risky shortcuts. We update ETAs by text or a quick call if a run stretches beyond the usual window.

Smart order timing on storm days

• Order earlier in the evening. Fewer stops are on the board and you get into the next loop faster.
• Pick pickup if you are already nearby. Place a pickup order online and wait for the ready text to avoid lineups.
• For late-night orders after 10:00 PM, handoffs start after we close at 12:00 AM. Storms can push those runs later; keep your phone on.

Address notes that save minutes in winter

Snowbanks hide unit numbers and curb markings. Clear notes help a lot:

• Write the unit number and buzzer code exactly as the intercom shows it.
• Add a landmark: “blue door,” “north lobby by mailbox,” or “visitor parking off 44 Ave NE.”
• Tell us about entry barriers: locked parkades, closed gates, or elevators under repair.
• If your intercom fails in the cold, add “call on arrival” and keep your phone close.

Lobby handoffs keep things quick

Many buildings lock interior floors after dark. Meeting in the lobby keeps the visit short and lets the driver get back to a warm car quickly. Bring your government ID and the same card you used online, as we check both at every handoff.

Porch and townhouse tips

• Turn on the porch light so your address is clear through the snow.
• Shovel a small path if snow is deep near your steps.
• Keep pets secured before you open the door, since ice can make them slip outside.

Safety comes first

We never ask drivers to speed or “beat” yellow lights. During storms they keep extra distance, and we batch stops so each loop makes sense. If conditions become unsafe, we pause a route and contact you with a new window. Your order stays in a sealed bag until the handoff is complete.

What to expect if we pause a route

On rare nights the city gridlocks or visibility drops. When that happens we call or text, hold your order safely, and resume as soon as roads clear. You can keep the order in the queue for the next window or switch to pickup if you prefer. We will work with your plan.

Late-night handoffs on cold nights

After 10:00 PM, deliveries happen after we close with handoffs starting at 12:00 AM. To avoid missed buzzers at midnight:

• Turn up your ringer and watch for a call.
• Meet in the lobby if your floor is locked.
• Have ID and the same card ready to speed the check.

How you can help drivers

• Answer quickly when we call.
• Share a landmark in notes if snow hides numbers.
• Clear short paths to the step on heavy-snow days.
• Meet in the lobby for condos and hotels.

Common winter questions

Do you still deliver in extreme cold?

Yes, but routes can be slower. If a cold snap creates unsafe conditions, we pause and contact you with options.

Can you leave the order at my door to avoid heat loss?

No. We must check ID and the same payment card in person and hand the package directly to you.

What if my address is hard to find in the snow?

Add a landmark at checkout and be ready to guide us by phone for the last 100 metres. Meeting at a corner or lobby works well.

Is pickup faster during storms?

Often yes, if you are already close to the shop. Place a pickup order online and come when you get the ready text.

Quick checklist for storm days

• Order early.
• Add buzzer, unit, and a landmark.
• Keep your phone on loud.
• Meet in the lobby if needed.
• Have ID and the same card ready.

Wrap-up

Winter changes timing, not our care. Add clear notes, keep your phone close, and have your ID plus the same card ready. We will bring your order as fast as the roads allow and keep you updated along the way.