How long does heating oil delivery take?

Check the date before you order

Delivery times are set by each supplier and vary with your area and how busy they are. On Fueltool, every price shows its delivery option and date, so you can weigh speed against cost before you order.

Faster usually costs more. Citizens Advice says ordering for delivery in a few weeks is usually cheaper than an urgent delivery, and Which? notes that waiting longer for your order will usually cost less, while express or emergency deliveries can be pricey.

Why waits are longer in winter

UKIFDA, the fuel distributors' trade body, told the CMA that delivery capacity is typically under-used in summer and fully used in the colder months. At times of high demand, such as shortages, price spikes or very bad weather, there may not be enough capacity to meet immediate demand.

That happened in March 2026. The CMA found that demand briefly outstripped supply after the Middle East conflict began, with wholesalers limiting how much oil distributors could collect each day and distributors fetching oil from more distant terminals. OFTEC advises ordering in good time because demand is higher in autumn and winter, and Which? says avoiding the deepest winter also sidesteps delivery problems in bad weather.

Order before you need it

The simplest way to avoid a long wait is not to need a quick delivery. Citizens Advice advises keeping at least a quarter of a tank while you wait, because low levels can damage the system, and UKIFDA advises keeping at least 500 litres in the tank where possible. Our guides on checking your tank level and when to reorder help you judge it.

If you or someone you live with is 75 or over, ask your supplier about UKIFDA's Cold Weather Priority Scheme. Participating suppliers can prioritise deliveries during extreme cold or fuel shortages, and there is no charge to join.

If the tank has already run dry, a quick delivery may be the only option, and that usually costs more. Our guide on what to do if you run out of heating oil covers the next steps.

Getting the tanker to your tank

• Tanker options on Fueltool include standard, small and baby tankers. Small and baby tankers are for narrow lanes and tight access, and a small extra charge can apply. See what if a tanker can't reach my tank.
• After you order, the supplier phones you to take payment. That call is a good moment to confirm the delivery date and mention anything about access, such as a locked gate, a steep drive or where the tank is.
• On the day, make sure the driver can reach the tank and fill point safely: gates unlocked, the path clear and pets inside. Ask the supplier whether you need to be in.
• If the boiler won't start after a delivery, see why an oil boiler won't work after a delivery, and call an OFTEC-registered technician rather than taking the burner apart.

To see delivery dates alongside today's prices, compare prices for your postcode.