Ordering Cannabis for Delivery: Rules, Limits, and Order Minimums Explained

When ordering cannabis for delivery, many consumers wonder: Do dispensaries require a minimum purchase amount? Are there limits on what or how much you can order? We’ll explore and provide an educational overview based on current industry standards, state laws, and best practices across the United States.


Minimum Order Requirements


Why Minimums Exist

Most cannabis delivery services set a minimum order amount to qualify for delivery. These minimums help dispensaries cover operational costs like driver wages, fuel, insurance, and order processing. They also ensure that delivery services remain efficient and sustainable.

  • Typical minimums: Across various states, dispensaries often require orders of $30 to $100 pre-tax for delivery.
  • Distance matters: Some services set higher minimums for customers farther from the dispensary or warehouse.
  • Free delivery thresholds: Many retailers waive delivery fees if orders exceed a higher minimum, like $75 or $100.

These thresholds vary widely depending on state regulations, local costs, and the competitive landscape.


Special Exemptions

Some dispensaries offer exceptions for:

  • Seniors (often 65+) or military veterans—they may benefit from reduced minimums or free delivery.
  • Medical patients—medical cannabis cardholders in some states are eligible for waived or lowered delivery minimums.

Always check directly with your chosen dispensary to confirm eligibility.


Legal Limits on Purchase Quantities


State-by-State Restrictions

Every state with legal cannabis has laws governing maximum purchase and possession limits. While specifics vary, most states regulate recreational cannabis sales along these lines:

  • Flower limits: Between 1 and 2.5 ounces of dried flower per purchase or per day.
  • Concentrate limits: Often capped at 5 to 8 grams of cannabis concentrates (e.g., vape cartridges, wax).
  • Edibles and other products: Limits are generally based on total milligrams of THC, such as 1000 mg per package or per day in many states.

For medical cannabis, states usually set higher limits, allowing qualified patients to purchase larger quantities per transaction or per month, often 2.5 to 10 ounces depending on medical needs and physician recommendations.


Delivery-Specific Limitations

  • Delivery services must comply with state-imposed purchase limits, regardless of whether the order is in-person or delivered.
  • Some states set lower delivery limits than in-store limits to reduce the risk of diversion or theft during transport.
  • Delivery drivers are typically required to verify recipient identity and ensure orders match the customer’s name on file.


Practical Tips for Customers

To have a smooth, legal delivery experience, customers should:

  • Check minimum order requirements with their preferred dispensary before ordering.
  • Know your state’s legal purchase limits for recreational or medical cannabis.
  • Have a valid, government-issued ID ready for verification upon delivery.
  • Be present to receive the delivery—most states prohibit delivery to third parties.
  • Ask about exemptions if you’re a senior, veteran, or medical patient, which could offer lower minimums or free delivery.

Use licensed, compliant delivery services to avoid legal issues and ensure product safety.


Key Takeaways

Most cannabis delivery services in the U.S. require minimum order amounts of $30–$100, depending on location, distance, and dispensary policies. State laws set maximum purchase and possession limits, usually between 1–2.5 ounces of flower and specific caps on concentrates or edibles. Deliveries must comply with state regulations, and recipients must verify their identity to legally receive orders. Always communicate directly with your dispensary for clear information on requirements in your area.