1800 Flowers vs Ftd: Which Flower Delivery Wins?
Need to send flowers and overwhelmed by choices? You’re not alone. The world of online flower delivery services can be a bit of a jungle. Two of the biggest names, 1800Flowers and FTD, often top the list, but which one truly delivers the best experience?
This comparison dives deep into 1800Flowers vs FTD, exploring everything from selection and pricing to delivery options and customer service. We’ll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each service to help you make the perfect floral choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply want to brighten someone’s day, choosing the right flower delivery service is crucial. We’ll break down the key differences between 1800Flowers and FTD, ensuring you get the most blooms for your buck and the best possible experience.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 1800 Flowers | FTD |
|---|---|---|
| Flower Selection | Extensive | Good |
| Same-Day Delivery | Yes | Yes |
| International Delivery | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Service | Available | Available |
| Subscription Options | Yes | Yes |
| Add-ons (Gifts, etc.) | Wide Variety | Wide Variety |
| Wedding Flowers | Yes | Yes |
| Plants | Yes | Yes |
| Funeral Flowers | Yes | Yes |
| Local Florist Network | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Loyalty Program | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Flower Selection & Variety
- 1800 Flowers: Offers a vast selection of flowers, plants, and gifts, including options for same-day delivery in many areas. They often have exclusive arrangements and partnerships. However, the sheer volume can be overwhelming, and quality can vary depending on the local florist fulfilling the order.
- Ftd: Provides a broad range of floral arrangements and gifts, with a focus on partnering with local florists. They often have curated collections for different occasions. FTD’s network can lead to inconsistent quality, as it relies on the standards of individual florists, and the selection might be more limited in some areas.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Pricing & Value
- 1800 Flowers: Pricing can be competitive, especially when considering promotions and coupons. They frequently offer discounts and deals. However, prices can sometimes be higher compared to local florists, and extra fees (e.g., service fees) can add to the cost.
- Ftd: Offers a range of price points to cater to different budgets, with promotional offers available. They often have value-driven arrangements. However, the added fees can make the final cost higher than expected, and some deals might not represent the best value.
- Winner: Tie
Delivery Options & Speed
- 1800 Flowers: Provides same-day delivery in many locations, along with scheduled delivery options. They often have a wide delivery network. Delivery fees can be high, and the reliability of same-day delivery can vary depending on the local florist and location.
- Ftd: Offers same-day delivery options, though it’s dependent on local florist availability. They offer scheduled delivery choices. The delivery reliability can be inconsistent, and the delivery fees can add a significant cost to the order.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Customer Service
- 1800 Flowers: Offers customer service through phone, email, and live chat. They generally have a good reputation for resolving issues. Some customers report inconsistent experiences with customer service depending on the time of day and the representative.
- Ftd: Provides customer service via phone, email, and sometimes live chat. The quality of customer service can vary, and some customers report difficulty resolving issues quickly.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Website & Ordering Experience
- 1800 Flowers: Features an easy-to-navigate website and a user-friendly ordering process. The website is well-designed and offers a variety of filtering options. Some users find the website cluttered, and the upsells can be excessive.
- Ftd: The website is generally easy to use, with a clear ordering process. The site is relatively straightforward. Some users find the website design less modern or intuitive compared to competitors.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Guarantees & Policies
- 1800 Flowers: Offers a satisfaction guarantee, providing replacements or refunds if the recipient is not satisfied. Their policies are generally customer-friendly. Some users have reported challenges in getting refunds or replacements promptly.
- Ftd: Provides a satisfaction guarantee, typically offering replacements or refunds. The policies are generally clear. Some customers report difficulty in getting issues resolved under the guarantee.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Local Florist Network
- 1800 Flowers: While they utilize a network of florists, the focus is often on their own branding and offerings. The reliance on local florists can lead to variability in quality and execution.
- Ftd: Heavily relies on a network of local florists, which is a core part of their business model. This can allow for a more personalized touch. The quality can vary based on the local florist’s standards, and availability might be limited in certain areas.
- Winner: ftd
Additional Products & Services
- 1800 Flowers: Offers a wide variety of additional gifts, including gourmet food, plants, and other items. They have a large selection of add-ons. The quality of these add-ons can vary, and it is sometimes perceived as a push to up-sell.
- Ftd: Provides a selection of additional gifts, such as chocolates and balloons, to complement floral arrangements. They offer these add-ons. The selection of add-ons is often less extensive than competitors.
- Winner: 1800 flowers
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Flower Selection | Tie |
| Same-Day Delivery | Tie |
| International Delivery | Tie |
| Customer Service | Tie |
| Add-ons | Tie |
| User Experience (Mobile App) | 1800 Flowers |
| Wedding Flowers | Tie |
| Funeral Flowers | Tie |
| Subscription Options | Tie |
| Local Florist Network | FTD |
| Loyalty Program | 1800 Flowers |
What They Have in Common
- Same-Day Delivery: Both 1800Flowers and FTD offer same-day delivery options, making them convenient for last-minute gifts and celebrations. This is a crucial feature for customers needing flowers quickly.
- Extensive Selection: Both services provide a broad selection of flowers, arrangements, and gifts to suit various occasions and preferences. Customers can choose from classic bouquets to unique arrangements.
- Nationwide Delivery: Both companies have a wide delivery network, ensuring they can deliver flowers across the United States. This is a significant advantage for customers sending gifts to loved ones far away.
- Add-Ons: Both offer add-ons like chocolates, balloons, and stuffed animals, allowing customers to create more personalized and complete gifts. This versatility is a key selling point.
- Subscription Services: Both 1800Flowers and FTD offer flower subscription services, enabling customers to receive regular deliveries of fresh flowers. This is perfect for those who enjoy having fresh flowers at home or want to send flowers regularly.
1800 Flowers Vs Ftd Buying Guide
Selection and Variety
1800Flowers boasts a vast selection, offering a wider array of flower types, arrangements, and add-ons like gourmet food and gifts. They cater to various occasions with themed collections and personalized options. FTD, while also extensive, might have a slightly narrower focus. 1800Flowers’ selection also includes international delivery options, expanding its reach beyond domestic borders. This broad selection ensures customers can find something suitable for any taste and event.
Pricing and Value
Both services offer a range of price points, but 1800Flowers often has more promotional deals and discounts, especially for new customers. FTD, however, might have more transparent pricing structures, with fewer hidden fees. Consider the overall value, factoring in delivery costs, add-ons, and the quality of the arrangements. Comparing prices across different arrangements and occasions is crucial to determine the best value for your needs. Carefully review the fine print.
Delivery Options and Reliability
1800Flowers and FTD both provide same-day and next-day delivery options, which is a significant advantage for urgent needs. However, delivery reliability can vary depending on location and the specific florist fulfilling the order. Check customer reviews regarding delivery experiences in your area before ordering. Consider the delivery fees and guarantees provided by each service. Both services offer tracking information, allowing you to monitor the progress of your delivery.
Customer Service and Support
Both companies provide customer service through phone, email, and live chat. 1800Flowers has a well-established customer service reputation, but experiences can vary. FTD’s customer support is generally considered to be responsive, but it is important to check recent reviews. Read reviews to assess customer experiences, paying attention to how issues are resolved. Consider the ease of contacting customer support and the responsiveness of the representatives.
Florist Network and Quality
Both 1800Flowers and FTD utilize networks of local florists to fulfill orders. The quality of arrangements can vary depending on the florist. 1800Flowers has a broad network, but the quality control may be less consistent. FTD’s quality control can sometimes be more rigorous due to its network standards. Review the florist’s reputation in your delivery area. Consider reading reviews to assess the quality of the arrangements you can expect.
Ease of Use and Website Experience
Both websites are user-friendly, allowing for easy browsing and ordering. 1800Flowers’ website might have more features and options, potentially making it slightly overwhelming for some users. FTD’s website is generally considered to be simpler to navigate. Both provide search filters to refine your search. Consider the mobile experience if you plan to order from a mobile device. Check for ease of use in the ordering process.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 1800 Flowers If…
- You value a wide selection of gifts beyond flowers.
- You want a user-friendly mobile app experience.
- You prefer a loyalty program with rewards.
- You want a reliable service with a well-established reputation.
Buy FTD If…
- You are looking for a more traditional floral experience.
- You prioritize a strong network of local florists.
- You are looking for a service with a long history in the floral industry.
- You want a reliable option for sending flowers internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 1800Flowers and FTD?
The primary difference lies in their selection, pricing, and network of florists. 1800Flowers often has a wider selection and more promotions, while FTD may offer more consistent quality control. Both use a network of local florists to fulfill orders, and the experience can vary depending on the local florist. Ultimately, both offer a convenient way to send flowers.
Which service offers better pricing?
Pricing varies, and both services have promotions. 1800Flowers frequently offers discounts and deals, particularly for new customers. FTD might have more transparent pricing structures with fewer hidden fees. Compare prices for specific arrangements and consider the overall value, including delivery costs and any additional add-ons before deciding.
Do they offer same-day delivery?
Yes, both 1800Flowers and FTD generally offer same-day delivery options, provided you place your order within the cut-off time. The availability of same-day delivery can depend on your location and the specific florist fulfilling the order. It is crucial to check the cut-off times and delivery availability for your area at the time of ordering.
How reliable is their delivery?
Delivery reliability can vary. Read customer reviews for delivery experiences in your area. Both companies use local florists, and the quality of service varies. Delivery times can be affected by peak seasons and holidays. Tracking information is available for both services to monitor the delivery progress.
What is the quality of the arrangements like?
The quality of arrangements depends on the local florist fulfilling the order, as both services use a network of florists. Customer reviews can provide insights into the quality in your area. Consider the freshness of the flowers and the arrangement’s overall design. Both companies strive for high quality, but experiences can vary.
What if I am not satisfied with my order?
Both 1800Flowers and FTD offer customer service to address issues. Contact customer support by phone, email, or live chat. Both services usually offer guarantees to replace or refund orders. Review the terms and conditions regarding returns and refunds. Keep your order number handy when contacting customer service.
Which service is better for international delivery?
1800Flowers often has more comprehensive international delivery options due to its partnerships and global network. FTD also offers international delivery, but its reach might be slightly less extensive. Check the delivery options available for the specific country you are sending flowers to. Consider the delivery fees and estimated delivery times for international orders.
Final Verdict
Both 1800Flowers and FTD are reliable choices for sending flowers, each with its own strengths. 1800Flowers generally offers a wider selection and more promotional deals, while FTD often provides more consistent quality control and a simpler website experience. The best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and location.
Winner: 1800 Flowers