How Much Does Delivery from Kroger Cost? Your Comprehensive Guide to Online Grocery Shopping!
Have you ever found yourself wondering, "How much is delivery from Kroger?" You're not alone! In our increasingly busy lives, grocery delivery has become a lifesaver for many. But understanding the costs involved can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of fees and memberships. Don't worry, we're here to demystify Kroger delivery costs and help you make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.
Let's dive in and break down everything you need to know about getting your groceries delivered right to your doorstep from Kroger!
Step 1: Understanding the Basics of Kroger Delivery – Where Do I Start?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of fees, it's crucial to understand the different ways you can get Kroger groceries delivered. Kroger offers its own delivery service in many areas, where trained Kroger associates pick and deliver your order. However, they also partner with third-party delivery services like Instacart and Shipt. The delivery cost can vary significantly depending on which service fulfills your order.
Kroger Delivery (Blue Truck Icon): This is Kroger's direct delivery service. Look for the "Blue Truck" icon when selecting your time slot at checkout. These orders are typically handled by Kroger's own team and sometimes utilize refrigerated trucks to ensure freshness.
Third-Party Delivery (Instacart/Shipt): When you choose a delivery slot that indicates a third-party partner, your order will be shopped and delivered by an Instacart or Shipt shopper. While convenient, the fees and pricing structure for these services can differ from direct Kroger Delivery.
Pro Tip: Always pay attention to the icon or text next to your chosen delivery slot at checkout to know who will be delivering your groceries. This can impact both the fee and even the accepted payment methods (e.g., paper coupons are generally only accepted for Kroger Delivery, not third-party).
Step 2: Breaking Down the Delivery Fees – What Will I Pay Per Order?
The most common question revolves around the per-order delivery fee. Here's a general breakdown:
Sub-heading: Standard Per-Order Delivery Fees
Kroger Delivery (Direct): For Kroger's own delivery service, the fees can vary based on the day and time slot you select. While there isn't a single fixed fee, you might see fees ranging from approximately $6.95 to $9.95. Some sources indicate a typical fee of $9.95 for delivery as soon as 2 hours, and potentially $6.95 for same-day or later reservations.
Third-Party Delivery (Instacart/Shipt): When using a third-party like Instacart, you might see delivery fees around $7.95 to $9.95, sometimes as high as $11.95. Keep in mind that Instacart may also have its own service fees in addition to the delivery fee.
Sub-heading: Express Delivery Fees
Need your groceries fast? Kroger offers Express Delivery for those times when you can't wait.
An additional $4.95 Express Fee typically applies to the standard delivery fee if you select this option for the fastest possible delivery. This means your total delivery fee could be higher, potentially reaching $14.90 or more ($9.95 standard + $4.95 express).
Important Note: Delivery fees are clearly displayed at the time of slot selection and before you confirm your order. Always review the final breakdown at checkout to see the exact cost for your specific delivery.
Step 3: Unlocking Savings with Kroger Boost – Is a Membership Worth It?
For frequent Kroger shoppers who rely on delivery, a Boost by Kroger Plus membership can be a game-changer. It's designed to offer significant savings on delivery fees and other perks.
Sub-heading: Boost Membership Tiers and Costs
Kroger Boost offers two main membership tiers, both with annual and monthly payment options:
Boost Essential:
$69 per year
$8.99 per month
Benefits: Free next-day delivery on orders over $35, and 2X Fuel Points on groceries and general merchandise. Annual members also get a six-month subscription to Disney+ Basic (With Ads), Hulu (With Ads), or ESPN+.
Boost (Standard):
$99 per year
$12.99 per month
Benefits: Free same-day delivery (as soon as 2 hours) on orders over $35, 2X Fuel Points on groceries and general merchandise, and a full year of Disney+ Basic (With Ads), Hulu (With Ads), or ESPN+ for annual members.
Sub-heading: How Boost Saves You Money
With a Boost membership, the delivery fee on orders of $35 or more is waived. If you order groceries frequently (e.g., once a week), the annual membership fee can quickly pay for itself, especially considering typical per-order delivery fees.
Example: If a standard delivery costs $9.95 per order and you order weekly, that's almost $520 in delivery fees annually. A $99 Boost membership would save you over $400!
Consider this: Kroger often offers a free 30-day trial for Boost membership. This is an excellent way to test out the service and see if it fits your shopping habits before committing to an annual plan.
Step 4: Understanding Minimum Order Requirements and Additional Charges
Beyond the delivery fee itself, there are a few other factors that can influence your total cost.
Sub-heading: Minimum Order for Delivery
For free delivery with a Boost membership, or to avoid certain fees, Kroger typically requires a minimum order of $35. If your order falls below this threshold, you may still incur a delivery fee, even with Boost.
Sub-heading: Tipping Your Driver
Kroger Delivery (Direct): Kroger states that for their direct delivery service, tipping is not necessary for their drivers as they are already compensated. "Your smile is our reward," they say!
Third-Party Delivery (Instacart/Shipt): When your order is fulfilled by Instacart or Shipt, tipping is customary and highly recommended, as these drivers rely on tips as a significant portion of their income. The app will usually suggest a tip amount, which you can adjust. This tip is an additional cost on top of any delivery and service fees.
Sub-heading: Service Fees and Price Differences
Service Fees: While Kroger Delivery generally doesn't have a separate "service fee" beyond the delivery charge, third-party services like Instacart often apply a separate service fee, which can be a percentage of your order total.
Price Discrepancies: Be aware that sometimes, prices for items ordered through third-party platforms like Instacart might be slightly higher than in-store prices or prices on Kroger's direct delivery platform. This is to cover the third-party's operational costs. However, Kroger states that with their own delivery service, you generally get the same great selection, prices, and rewards as shopping in-store.
Step 5: Comparing with Kroger Pickup – Is It a Cheaper Alternative?
If delivery fees are a concern, Kroger Pickup (formerly ClickList) is an excellent, often free, alternative.
Sub-heading: Kroger Pickup Costs
Free on orders of $35 or more: For orders totaling $35 or more, Kroger Pickup is typically free.
$4.95 fee for orders under $35: If your order is less than $35, a small service fee of $4.95 may apply for pickup.
Sub-heading: Benefits of Pickup
No delivery fee (with minimum): The most obvious benefit is saving on delivery charges.
Convenience: Your groceries are shopped for you, and you simply drive to the store at your scheduled time for curbside pickup.
Same items, same prices: Generally, you'll find the same in-store prices and availability.
Consider your schedule: If you're able to make a quick trip to the store, Kroger Pickup can be a fantastic way to save on those delivery costs while still enjoying the convenience of having someone else do the shopping.
Step 6: Maximizing Your Savings and Understanding Other Perks
Beyond Boost, there are other ways to save on your Kroger delivery orders.
Sub-heading: Digital Coupons and Fuel Points
Digital Coupons: You can still apply Kroger's digital coupons to your online delivery orders (both Kroger Delivery and sometimes third-party, though it's best to confirm). These can offer significant savings on your total grocery bill.
Fuel Points: When you shop with your Kroger Shopper's Card (or linked digital account) for delivery or pickup, you still earn Fuel Points! With a Boost membership, you earn 2X Fuel Points for every dollar spent on groceries and general merchandise. These points can then be redeemed for discounts at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations, offering another layer of savings.
Sub-heading: First-Time User Promotions
Kroger often offers promotions for new delivery or pickup customers, such as a discount on your first order when you spend a certain amount (e.g., "$20 off your first delivery order of $75 or more"). Keep an eye out for these valuable introductory offers!
Step 7: Checking Availability in Your Area
Kroger's delivery services are expanding, but availability can vary by location.
Sub-heading: How to Check Your Address
The easiest way to determine if Kroger delivers to your specific address, and to see the available delivery options and fees, is to visit Kroger.com or use the Kroger app.
You'll be prompted to enter your ZIP code or full address at the beginning of your shopping experience. This will then show you the available delivery and pickup options for your area.
Kroger Delivery (their own service) is currently available in select markets, while third-party options may have wider coverage.
By understanding these various aspects of Kroger's delivery service, you can make informed decisions that best suit your needs and keep your grocery budget in check. Happy shopping!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to reduce Kroger delivery fees?
You can reduce Kroger delivery fees by signing up for a Boost by Kroger Plus membership (which offers free delivery on orders over $35), looking for first-time customer promotions, or opting for Kroger Pickup which is free on orders over $35.
How to get free delivery from Kroger?
You can get free delivery from Kroger by becoming a Boost by Kroger Plus member (either the Essential or Standard plan) and ensuring your order total is $35 or more.
How to tell if my Kroger delivery is by Kroger or Instacart?
During the checkout process on Kroger.com or the Kroger app, look for the "Blue Truck" icon or the text "Fulfilled by Kroger Delivery" when selecting your time slot. If you see mentions of Instacart or Shipt, it's a third-party delivery.
How to cancel a Kroger delivery order?
You can generally modify or cancel a Kroger delivery order before the shopper has started picking the order. For Instacart-fulfilled orders, you might need to chat directly with Instacart once shopping has begun. Check your order details or the relevant FAQ section on Kroger's website for specific instructions.
How to track my Kroger delivery?
Once your Kroger delivery order is on its way, you'll typically receive a notification (via app or SMS) that allows you to track your driver's progress.
How to use digital coupons with Kroger delivery?
Simply clip digital coupons to your Kroger Plus Card or digital account before or during your online shopping. These coupons will automatically apply to eligible items in your delivery order at checkout.
How to earn Fuel Points with Kroger delivery orders?
You earn Fuel Points on eligible grocery and general merchandise purchases with your Kroger Plus Card or digital account, whether you shop in-store, through pickup, or with delivery. Boost members earn 2X Fuel Points.
How to return items from a Kroger delivery order?
Kroger's return policy generally allows returns for new, unused, and unwashed merchandise within 30 days of order delivery with a proper receipt. You can often return items in-store with your online receipt, or sometimes initiate an online return request.
How to contact Kroger delivery customer service?
You can typically find customer service contact information, including phone numbers or online chat options, on the Kroger website or within the Kroger app's help or FAQ sections.
How to schedule a Kroger delivery?
To schedule a Kroger delivery, sign in to your digital account on Kroger.com or the app, select "delivery" as your shopping method, add items to your cart, and then proceed to checkout where you can choose your preferred delivery date and time slot.
