In a world where convenience is king, delivery services have become an essential part of our daily lives. From groceries to gadgets, we’ve grown accustomed to having almost anything delivered to our doorsteps. However, some delivery services around the globe go beyond the ordinary, offering bizarre, quirky, and downright weird options. Here’s a look at some of the strangest delivery services you might not have heard of.
1. The Mystery Box – Japan
Japan is known for its love of surprises, and one of the most unusual delivery services in the country is the “fukubukuro,” or mystery box. Available during the New Year period, these mystery bags are filled with unknown items from various retailers, ranging from electronics to fashion. Some companies have taken this concept further, offering mystery boxes year-round, where customers receive a package of random, sometimes bizarre, items. The thrill lies in not knowing what you’re going to get—anything from limited-edition products to peculiar knick-knacks could be inside.
2. Pizza by Drone – Iceland
In Iceland, the future has arrived with drone delivery services. One of the most notable offerings is pizza delivery by drone, pioneered by a local company in Reykjavik. Imagine ordering a pizza and having it delivered by an unmanned aerial vehicle within minutes, navigating the country’s rugged landscape. This service not only cuts delivery times significantly but also adds a futuristic twist to the standard pizza night.
3. Penguins Deliver Mail – Antarctica
In the icy expanse of Antarctica, traditional delivery methods are a challenge. Enter the penguins—yes, real penguins—that are used to deliver mail between research stations and tourist sites. This quirky and adorable service is a nod to the unique environment of Antarctica, where human presence is limited and wildlife reigns supreme. While the mail is actually transported by researchers and guides, the penguins have become a charming symbol of this remote delivery service.
4. Speedboat Takeout – Thailand
In Thailand, particularly in areas around the islands and river markets, food delivery takes to the water. Speedboats zip through the rivers and canals, delivering hot meals from floating kitchens directly to customers waiting at piers or on their boats. This service is especially popular in Bangkok, where the city’s intricate network of waterways makes it easier (and more fun) to deliver food by boat rather than by road.
5. A Goat to Mow Your Lawn – United States
If you’re in certain parts of the United States and need your lawn mowed, why not hire a goat? Companies like “Goat Grazers” offer a unique service where they bring a herd of goats to your property to trim the grass. These eco-friendly lawnmowers are perfect for hilly or difficult terrain where traditional lawnmowers might struggle. Plus, they’re a natural and sustainable way to keep your lawn tidy.
6. Coffin Delivery – Ghana
In Ghana, elaborate and colorful coffins are a significant part of the local funeral culture. Known as “fantasy coffins,” these custom-made creations can be shaped like anything, from a fish to a car, reflecting the deceased’s profession or passion. Delivery of these coffins is a specialized service, often requiring careful transportation to ensure that the intricate designs remain intact. This service highlights the unique and meaningful ways different cultures approach death and burial.
7. Emergency Chocolate Delivery – Switzerland
Switzerland, known for its world-class chocolate, takes sweet cravings seriously. In Zurich, a company offers an emergency chocolate delivery service. Whether you’ve had a rough day or simply need a chocolate fix, this service promises to deliver high-quality Swiss chocolate to your door within minutes. It’s a perfect solution for chocoholics in need of a quick pick-me-up.
8. Camel Courier Service – India
In the deserts of Rajasthan, India, camels are still a vital mode of transportation. For remote areas with difficult terrain, camels are used as couriers to deliver goods and messages. This service is not just a tourist attraction but a practical solution in regions where modern vehicles can’t easily go. Camel couriers have been a part of the region’s history for centuries, and they continue to be used today in places where the desert environment dominates.
9. Prescription Delivery by Reindeer – Norway
In Norway’s Arctic regions, where winter brings deep snow and harsh conditions, reindeer have been used to deliver medical supplies and prescriptions to isolated communities. This traditional method has been adapted to modern needs, ensuring that people living in remote areas receive their medication, even when the weather makes other forms of transport impossible.
10. Snowball Delivery – United States
For those who miss winter during the hot summer months, one company in the United States offers a unique service: snowball delivery. For a fee, you can have a genuine snowball shipped to your door, no matter where you live. Packed with dry ice to prevent melting, these snowballs arrive ready to throw, allowing you to experience a bit of winter fun even in the middle of July.
These weird and wonderful delivery services highlight the creativity and adaptability of businesses around the world. Whether it’s using animals, boats, or drones, these companies have found unique ways to meet the needs and desires of their customers. The next time you think about delivery, remember that there’s a whole world of possibilities out there, some of which are stranger than fiction.
