Securing a Christmas grocery delivery slot can be one of the most important and competitive steps in holiday planning.
For UK households that rely on Ocado, knowing exactly when and how to book a delivery slot during the festive period is crucial.
While the Ocado Christmas slots for 2025 are not yet available, understanding the booking system, key dates, and Smart Pass benefits can give customers a strategic advantage.
In this guide, we’ll break down the expected release schedule, booking process, and tips to ensure your Christmas 2025 grocery order arrives right on time.
What Are Ocado Christmas Slots In 2025 And Why Do They Matter?
Ocado Christmas slots are special delivery timeframes offered by Ocado during the festive period. These slots typically fall between 20 and 24 December and are among the most in-demand grocery delivery windows of the year.
With increased reliance on online shopping, these slots help customers avoid holiday crowds while ensuring access to fresh produce and festive essentials.
The Christmas season also brings high pressure on logistics and order volumes. Ocado uses a tiered access system that prioritises Smart Pass members, followed by the general public, to manage this demand effectively.
For many households, securing one of these slots determines how smoothly their Christmas preparations unfold.
When Do Ocado Christmas Delivery Slots For 2025 Open?
Ocado Christmas delivery slots for 2025 are released in two phases. Priority access is granted to Smart Pass customers who signed up on or before 1st September 2025.
These customers will be the first to see available slots for the Christmas delivery period and are notified via email once their access window opens.
Following the early access period, all other Ocado customers will be able to book their deliveries as part of the general slot release.
There is no confirmed public release date, so it’s important for all customers to regularly check the slot booking page via the Ocado website or app for real-time availability.
The delivery slots for Christmas week (20th to 24th December) are highly limited and tend to get booked up quickly.
As a result, Ocado cannot guarantee availability for all customers. To ensure fairness, the following policies are in place:
- Customers can book a maximum of two deliveries during Christmas week
- Only one delivery is allowed on either 23rd or 24th December
- Attempts to book more may result in cancellation of additional slots
Customers with an Anytime Smart Pass subscription receive an exclusive benefit of one free delivery during Christmas week.
To redeem this, eligible customers will receive a voucher via email, which must be claimed to apply the discount at checkout.
Ocado encourages all customers to act quickly once slots become available. Keeping an eye on your email and frequently visiting the booking page are essential steps to improve your chances of securing a delivery slot.
Below is the confirmed delivery schedule for the Christmas and New Year period:
| Date | Delivery Hours |
|---|---|
| Saturday 20 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Sunday 21 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Monday 22 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Tuesday 23 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Wednesday 24 December | 5:30am – 4:59pm |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Boxing Day | Closed |
| Saturday 27 December | 3:00pm – 11:59pm |
| Sunday 28 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Monday 29 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| Tuesday 30 December | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
| New Year’s Eve | 5:30am – 2:59pm |
| New Year’s Day | Closed |
| Friday 2 January | 5:30am – 11:59pm |
Because of high demand during this period, customers are advised to prepare in advance and finalise their basket early to avoid last-minute issues.
Booking early and adhering to the guidelines improves the likelihood of a smooth and timely Christmas delivery.
How Can Customers Book Ocado Christmas Slots Early?
Booking a Christmas delivery slot with Ocado early is the most reliable way to ensure your festive grocery shop arrives on time.
Given the intense demand for slots during the days leading up to Christmas, understanding and preparing for the booking process is key.
Customers who are proactive and organised typically have the highest success rates in securing their preferred time slots.
To book early, customers should take the following steps:
1. Register for an Ocado Account in Advance
Before you can book a delivery, you’ll need to have a registered account on the Ocado website or app.
Make sure your personal details, payment methods, and delivery address are all up to date. This ensures a smooth booking process once slots become available.
2. Subscribe to the Ocado Smart Pass
Smart Pass members are given priority access to Christmas slots. In previous years, this has meant booking opens to them in mid or late September, weeks before the general public can access the system.
If you plan to do your Christmas food shop online with Ocado, subscribing to Smart Pass can significantly improve your chances of securing a suitable delivery time.
3. Enable Notifications and Email Alerts
Once you’ve registered and subscribed, enable marketing emails and notifications from Ocado. These alerts will inform you the moment Christmas slots open.
Often, Ocado will also send reminders in the days leading up to the slot release date, helping customers prepare in advance.
4. Log In Early on Release Day
On the day Christmas slots open for booking, log into your Ocado account early—preferably first thing in the morning.
Past experience shows that the most desirable slots (such as evening deliveries close to Christmas Eve) are often fully booked within hours. Being online early gives you a competitive edge.
5. Prepare Your Basket Ahead of Time
Although you can modify your order after booking, having a preliminary basket ready with your essential items will save you time and ensure the booking is completed quickly. The faster you can check out with your reserved slot, the less likely you are to lose it.
6. Check Regularly for Cancellations or New Slots
If you miss out on your preferred slot, don’t give up. Customers occasionally cancel their deliveries, and Ocado may release extra slots closer to Christmas depending on demand and delivery capacity.
Checking the website or app daily, especially during the morning or late evening, increases your chances of finding an available slot.
By following these steps, customers can maximise their opportunity to secure a Christmas 2025 delivery slot before demand exceeds supply. Early preparation and prompt action are crucial during this high-traffic period.
Who Gets Priority Access To Ocado Christmas Delivery In 2025?
Priority access is exclusively available to Smart Pass subscribers. This subscription service provides early access to Christmas and other peak-season delivery slots.
Smart Pass members are typically notified in advance of slot releases via email or app notifications.
Access windows may vary slightly by region, but members generally see slots appear up to six weeks earlier than non-subscribers.
This access is particularly valuable for customers seeking weekend or evening delivery slots, which often sell out within hours.
Customers who do not hold a Smart Pass may still access the booking calendar once it opens to the general public in November. However, availability is often more limited by that stage.
What Is The Ocado Smart Pass And How Does It Affect Christmas Slot Booking?
The Ocado Smart Pass is a subscription-based service designed to offer regular Ocado customers a range of benefits, with the most notable advantage being priority access to delivery slots during peak times like Christmas.
For shoppers looking to secure a reliable delivery slot during the 2025 festive season, the Smart Pass is one of the most effective tools available.
Here’s a breakdown of how the Smart Pass works and why it is especially useful during the holiday period:
What Does the Smart Pass Include?
The Smart Pass provides members with the following benefits:
- Early Access to Delivery Slots: Members are granted exclusive access to book Christmas slots before the general public. This early access usually begins in September, weeks ahead of the wider release in November. For Christmas 2025, this means Smart Pass holders are first in line when demand is highest.
- Free Deliveries: Depending on the plan you choose, you can receive free delivery either on midweek orders or on any day of the week. This is particularly valuable during December when extra shopping trips are common and delivery fees can add up quickly.
- Exclusive Discounts and Offers: Smart Pass members have access to member-only offers, including discounts on selected products. These deals are especially appealing during the expensive Christmas shopping period.
- Flexibility and Convenience: Subscribers are also given more flexibility in managing orders and substitutions, ensuring a smoother overall shopping experience.
How It Impacts Christmas Slot Booking?
During the festive season, thousands of customers compete for a limited number of delivery slots.
The Smart Pass effectively acts as a VIP ticket, giving subscribers an exclusive booking window long before regular users gain access.
In past years, many of the best slots especially those close to Christmas Eve—were fully booked before they even became visible to non-members.
Smart Pass holders can take advantage of:
- Earlier Booking Dates: Typically in mid to late September, compared to early November for the public.
- Better Slot Availability: Including evenings, weekends, and prime delivery windows.
- Reduced Risk of Missing Out: The limited number of slots available means that non-members are often left with fewer or less convenient options.
This priority access can be the difference between a well-stocked Christmas table and a last-minute dash to the supermarket. If securing a delivery around Christmas is a top priority for you, the Smart Pass is an investment worth considering.
Subscription Options
Ocado offers two main types of Smart Pass subscriptions:
| Plan Type | Delivery Benefit | Cost Structure |
| Midweek Pass | Free delivery Tue–Thu | Lower monthly fee |
| Anytime Pass | Free delivery all week | Higher monthly fee |
Both plans include early booking access for Christmas slots, so the choice depends on how frequently you shop and when you prefer deliveries.
Cancellation and Flexibility
The Smart Pass is not a long-term commitment. Customers can cancel at any time with no penalties, making it ideal even for short-term use during the holiday season.
For Christmas 2025, subscribing for just a few months around the festive period can be a cost-effective way to secure your preferred delivery window.
How Fast Do Ocado Christmas Delivery Slots Sell Out?
Ocado Christmas delivery slots are known for selling out quickly. In previous years, many prime-time slots are taken within a few hours of the booking window opening for Smart Pass members.
For customers without a Smart Pass, competition becomes even more intense. By the time the general access window opens in November, most premium slots are gone. Mid-morning and evening deliveries during the days closest to Christmas tend to disappear first.
Booking in the first few minutes of slot release offers the best chance of success. Customers should ensure their payment details and delivery preferences are already saved in their accounts to speed up the process.
What Are Ocado’s Christmas 2025 Opening Hours And Delivery Schedule?
Although the official 2025 schedule has not been confirmed, historical patterns suggest that Ocado will maintain a similar structure to previous years. Here is a general overview of expected operations around Christmas:
| Date | Delivery Availability | Notes |
| 20 December 2025 | Fully operational | Standard delivery hours |
| 21 December 2025 | Fully operational | Standard delivery hours |
| 22 December 2025 | Fully operational | Standard delivery hours |
| 23 December 2025 | Extended hours | Additional evening slots |
| 24 December 2025 | Limited service | Ends around early afternoon |
| 25 December 2025 | Closed | No deliveries |
| 26 December 2025 | Closed | No deliveries |
Customers are advised to verify this information closer to the date using Ocado’s website or contacting customer support.
What Festive Groceries And Christmas Food Can Be Pre-Ordered On Ocado
Ocado’s Christmas range typically includes a wide variety of festive groceries and premium products.
These become available from early autumn and can be added to your trolley ahead of booking a slot.
Product categories often include:
- Whole and crown turkeys
- Stuffing and festive trimmings
- Roast vegetables and side dishes
- Cheese selections and charcuterie boards
- M&S Christmas desserts and puddings
- Champagne, wine, and alcohol bundles
- Vegan and vegetarian Christmas alternatives
Customers can add items to their trolley over time and update their baskets after booking. It is important to check “use by” dates, especially for fresh items, before finalising the order.
How Does Ocado Compare To Other UK Supermarkets For Christmas Delivery
Ocado stands out from other UK supermarkets for several reasons. While Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA also offer Christmas slots, Ocado has a reputation for better availability in certain regions and smoother online booking processes.
Here is a comparison overview:
| Feature | Ocado | Tesco | Sainsbury’s | ASDA |
| Smart Pass Early Access | Yes | Clubcard Priority | Yes | No |
| M&S Partnership | Yes | No | No | No |
| App Experience | Strong | Moderate | Good | Basic |
| Slot Availability | High for members | Moderate | Moderate | Low during peak |
| Delivery Coverage | Expanding | National | National | National |
Customers in areas with strong Ocado coverage benefit from high service reliability, better on-time rates, and access to M&S-branded holiday food products.
What Tips Can Help Secure An Ocado Christmas Slot For 2025
Customers looking to secure a Christmas slot should follow a few proven strategies. These improve the odds of booking a delivery during the highly competitive holiday window:
- Subscribe to Ocado Smart Pass to gain early access
- Log in before the announced release time and refresh frequently
- Be flexible with delivery days and times
- Use the “Next 3 Days” button to explore later availability
- Prepare your trolley in advance to speed up checkout
- Avoid over-editing your basket after booking, which may risk issues
Having a strategy in place can help avoid frustration during this peak period, especially if your preferred slot is booked quickly.
Can Customers Modify Their Christmas Orders After Booking A Slot?
Yes, Ocado allows customers to edit their orders after a Christmas delivery slot is secured. The final cut-off time for changes is typically one or two days before the scheduled delivery, depending on the delivery time and date.
You can:
- Add new items to your order
- Remove unwanted products
- Adjust quantities
- Replace out-of-stock items
Ocado also sends a reminder before the cut-off time to ensure all necessary changes are made. This flexibility is especially useful for accommodating any last-minute additions or changes to your holiday plans.
What Should Customers Know About Ocado’s Holiday Policies And Customer Service
During the festive season, Ocado enhances its customer service operations. The support team may extend working hours in the lead-up to Christmas, offering more availability for urgent enquiries.
Important considerations include:
- Contactless delivery remains available where requested
- Refund policies continue to apply during Christmas
- Substitution preferences can be updated in your account
- Ocado communicates weather-related disruptions via email or SMS
Using the app for updates is recommended, as it provides real-time delivery tracking and direct access to customer support chat services. Customers are advised to reach out early in case of delivery issues, especially in the days leading up to Christmas Eve.
Final Thoughts
To secure your ideal Ocado Christmas 2025 delivery slot, preparation is essential. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or simply want to avoid last-minute supermarket queues, booking early, staying informed, and subscribing to a Smart Pass can make all the difference.
Monitor Ocado’s official website, be ready to act quickly, and keep your basket updated with festive must-haves. Planning ahead ensures a stress-free and delicious holiday season.
FAQs About Ocado Christmas Slots 2025
When will Ocado confirm the 2025 Christmas delivery schedule?
Ocado typically releases official schedules around late summer to early autumn. Smart Pass members often receive early access dates via email.
Is there a waiting list for Ocado Christmas slots?
There is no formal waiting list, but cancellations can make slots reappear. Refreshing the page or checking at off-peak times increases your chances.
Can I cancel my Christmas slot if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel your Christmas slot via your account dashboard, though it’s best to do so early to free it up for other customers.
Do Ocado deliver on Christmas Eve?
Yes, but delivery hours on 24 December are typically limited to the morning and early afternoon.
Are there minimum spend requirements for Christmas orders?
Ocado usually has a minimum order value for all deliveries, including during Christmas. This is often around £40–£60 depending on your location.
Will festive food items run out before Christmas?
High-demand items such as turkey crowns and M&S luxury desserts can sell out. Pre-order early to avoid disappointment.
Is it worth getting a Smart Pass just for Christmas?
Yes, especially if you want early booking access, free deliveries, and exclusive offers during the peak season.
