Automatic vs. Will-Call Oil Delivery: Which Is Right?
From the Alcus family · Alcus Fuel Oil & Sons, Amityville · Updated October 30, 2026
There are two ways to get heating oil from us: automatic delivery, where we keep track and come before you run low, and will-call (COD), where you watch your gauge and order when you need oil.
Automatic delivery
- We use the weather (degree days) and your past deliveries to predict when your tank will be getting low, and schedule you before it does.
- No gauge checking, no runouts, no emergency calls in January.
- Priority in cold snaps and emergencies.
- Best for: busy households, older relatives, rentals, second homes, and anyone who's run out before.
Sign up for automatic delivery
Will-call (COD)
- You check your tank gauge and order online or call when it's around 1/4.
- Pay cash on delivery or by card over the phone, only for the gallons delivered.
- Best for: people who like to control timing, use little oil, or are shopping price day to day.
Side by side
| Automatic | Will-call (COD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who watches the tank | We do | You do |
| Risk of running out | Very low | Higher in cold snaps |
| Cold-snap priority | Yes | As soon as we can |
| Ordering | Nothing to do | Online or by phone |
Add a service contract
Pair either option with a service contract for a yearly tune-up and priority repairs. HEAP customers can use either delivery type — see HEAP.
Need oil or service on the South Shore?
Sign up for automatic delivery📞 Call 631-264-8800Urgent call back
Questions
Does automatic delivery cost more?
Call us at 631-264-8800 to go over today's prices and payment options for automatic and will-call customers.
Can I switch from will-call to automatic delivery?
Yes, any time. Sign up online or call us. We will confirm your tank size and fill-pipe location and set you up.
Who gets served first in a cold snap?
Automatic-delivery and service-contract customers are served first in cold snaps and emergencies.