You've just realized your Kroger delivery time won't work anymore – perhaps an unexpected meeting popped up, or you simply prefer an earlier slot. Don't worry, it happens to the best of us! Changing your Kroger delivery time can be a bit tricky, but with this detailed guide, you'll be able to navigate the process with ease. Let's get started!
Are you ready to take control of your Kroger delivery schedule?
If so, let's dive into the steps. It's important to note that Kroger's policy on changing delivery times can vary slightly depending on whether your order is fulfilled directly by Kroger or by a third-party service like Instacart. We'll cover both scenarios.
 |
| How To Change Kroger Delivery Time |
Step 1: Understand Kroger's Delivery Time Change Policy
This is the most crucial first step before you even attempt to change anything. Kroger has a very specific policy regarding changes to delivery times.
For Kroger-fulfilled deliveries: According to Kroger's official FAQs, once you place your order, you generally cannot change your delivery time or location for orders fulfilled directly by Kroger. This is a key piece of information to be aware of. The system is designed for a fixed slot once confirmed.
For Instacart-fulfilled deliveries: If your order is being fulfilled by Instacart (which Kroger often uses), you might have a bit more flexibility, but only until a certain point. You may be able to modify your order at any point until the shopper has started picking the order. Once the shopper has started, you'll need to chat with Instacart directly for assistance.
Why is this important? Knowing this upfront can save you a lot of frustration. If your order is a direct Kroger delivery, your options for changing the time are extremely limited, and you might need to consider cancellation and re-ordering (which comes with its own considerations).
Step 2: Identify Your Order Type (Kroger vs. Third-Party)
Before proceeding, you need to confirm who is fulfilling your delivery. This will dictate your next steps.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Sub-heading 2.1: Checking Your Order Confirmation
Look for the confirmation email or within your Kroger account. When you placed your order, you likely received an email confirmation. This email often specifies if the delivery is "Fulfilled by Kroger Delivery" or if it's handled by a partner like Instacart.
Check for the "Blue Truck" icon during checkout. If you recall the checkout process, Kroger-fulfilled deliveries often have a "Blue Truck" icon next to the time slot. If you saw the Instacart logo or similar, it's likely a third-party delivery.
Access "My Purchases" in your Kroger Digital Account:
Go to the Kroger Website or Mobile App: Open your preferred platform.
Log In: Enter your digital account credentials.
Navigate to "My Purchases" or "Order History": This section will list your past and current orders.
Locate the Specific Order: Find the order you wish to modify. The details of the order might indicate the fulfillment method.
Sub-heading 2.2: Understanding the Implications
If it's Kroger-fulfilled: As mentioned, direct time changes are highly unlikely. Proceed to Step 3.
If it's Instacart-fulfilled: You have a window of opportunity before the shopper starts. Proceed to Step 4.
Step 3: What to Do for Kroger-Fulfilled Deliveries (Limited Options)
Given Kroger's policy, if your order is being directly fulfilled by them, your options for changing the delivery time are extremely limited to non-existent.
Sub-heading 3.1: Cancellation and Re-ordering (The Most Likely Solution)
Assess the Urgency and Availability: If you absolutely cannot receive the delivery at the chosen time, your primary option will be to cancel the existing order and then place a new order with a new, suitable delivery time.
Important Considerations for Cancellation:
Time Limit for Cancellation: You can typically cancel an existing order at any point until the shopper has started picking the order. Once picking has begun, you cannot cancel.
Losing Your Slot: If you cancel, the delivery slot you originally held will be released, and you might not be able to get it back. There's also no guarantee that a new, desirable slot will be available, especially during peak times.
Refund Processing: Kroger will generally refund the amount to your payment card immediately upon cancellation. However, it might take a few business days for the refund to reflect on your bank statement.
How to Cancel a Kroger Order:
Log in to your Digital Account: Go to the Kroger website or app.
Go to "My Purchases": Find the order you want to cancel.
Select the Order and Choose "Cancel": Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the cancellation.
If you have trouble canceling: Contact Kroger Customer Service immediately (details in Step 5).
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
Sub-heading 3.2: Contacting Kroger Customer Service (For Exceptional Cases)
While direct time changes are not permitted, if you have an extenuating circumstance (e.g., an emergency), it's always worth a call to customer service. They might be able to offer guidance or solutions in specific situations, though a time change is rarely one of them.
Refer to Step 5 for customer service contact information.
Step 4: How to Change Delivery Time for Instacart-Fulfilled Orders
If your Kroger order is being delivered via Instacart, you have a bit more flexibility, but it's time-sensitive.
 |
Sub-heading 4.1: Modifying Your Order Before Shopping Begins
Access Your Order in Kroger's "My Purchases": Just like with Kroger-fulfilled orders, log into your Kroger digital account and go to "My Purchases."
Look for the "Modify Order" Option: If the shopper hasn't started yet, you might see an option to "Modify Order" or "Edit Order." Clicking this should allow you to revisit the order details, including the delivery time selection.
Select a New Time Slot: Choose a new delivery window that works for you. Be aware that changing the time might impact the delivery fee, as fees can vary based on the day and time slot.
Confirm Your Changes: Save and confirm any modifications you make. You'll likely receive an updated confirmation.
Sub-heading 4.2: Contacting the Instacart Shopper Directly (If Shopping Has Started)
Enable Notifications: To chat with your Instacart shopper directly, you'll need to ensure you've enabled notifications for your delivery account settings. This is usually done within the Instacart app or website.
Use the Instacart App/Website: Once your shopper begins picking your order, you'll typically receive a notification from Instacart. At this point, you can communicate directly with them through the Instacart app or website's chat feature.
Explain Your Situation Clearly: Politely explain that you need to change the delivery time and see if the shopper or Instacart support can accommodate your request. Be aware that they are not obligated to change the time once shopping has commenced, as it impacts their delivery route and schedule. They might advise you to cancel and reorder, or they might be able to work something out depending on the circumstances.
Be Prepared for Limited Options: While direct communication is available, a time change at this stage is still challenging. They might suggest leaving the groceries in a safe spot if you won't be home, or they might recommend cancelling and re-ordering if feasible.
Step 5: Contacting Kroger Customer Service (If All Else Fails)
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
If you're unsure about your order type, or if you've encountered issues with the above steps, reaching out to Kroger Customer Service is your next best bet.
Sub-heading 5.1: Kroger Customer Service Contact Information
Phone: 1-800-KROGERS (1-800-576-4377)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to Midnight EST; Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM EST.
Online Chat/Email: Visit the "Contact Us" or "Help Center" section on the Kroger website (
kroger.com/hc/help/contact-us
Sub-heading 5.2: What to Provide When You Call/Chat
Order Number: Have your order confirmation number ready. This is crucial for them to quickly locate your order.
Account Information: Be ready to provide your name, email address, and phone number associated with your Kroger digital account.
Clear Explanation: Clearly explain your situation and why you need to change the delivery time. Be polite and patient.
Step 6: Confirming Your New Delivery Details (If Applicable)
If you successfully manage to change your delivery time (more likely with Instacart or via cancellation/re-order), always double-check the new details.
Check for an updated confirmation email: Kroger or Instacart should send you a new confirmation with the revised delivery window.
Verify within your "My Purchases" section: Log back into your Kroger account and check the order details to ensure the new time is reflected correctly.
Important Tips to Remember:
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
Act Quickly: If you need to change your delivery time, do so as soon as possible. The earlier you try to make a change, the better your chances (especially with Instacart).
Understand the Fees: Changing delivery times, particularly for Instacart orders, might incur different delivery fees depending on the new slot selected.
Substitution Preferences: While not directly related to time changes, always ensure your substitution preferences are set correctly in your order, as this impacts how your shopper handles out-of-stock items, which can affect your overall delivery experience.
Enable Notifications: Keep your phone handy and ensure notifications from Kroger and/or Instacart are enabled. This will allow you to receive real-time updates on your order status, including when a shopper starts picking.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common "How to" questions related to Kroger delivery:
How to track my Kroger delivery order? You can usually track your Kroger delivery order by logging into your digital account on the Kroger website or mobile app and going to "My Purchases." For Instacart-fulfilled orders, you'll often track directly through the Instacart app.
How to cancel a Kroger delivery order? Log in to your Kroger digital account, go to "My Purchases," select the order, and choose "Cancel." You can typically cancel until the shopper begins picking the order.
How to add items to a Kroger delivery order after placing it? For Kroger-fulfilled orders, once placed, you generally cannot modify the order. You would need to cancel and re-order. For Instacart-fulfilled orders, you might be able to add items through the Instacart app until the shopper starts picking.
How to contact Kroger customer service for delivery issues? You can call Kroger Customer Service at 1-800-KROGERS (1-800-576-4377) or use the chat/email options available on their "Contact Us" page on the website.
How to find my Kroger delivery order history? Log in to your Kroger digital account on their website or app, and navigate to the "My Purchases" or "Order History" section.
How to set substitution preferences for Kroger delivery? During the online checkout process, there will be an option to indicate your substitution preferences (e.g., "allow substitutions," "contact me for substitutions," or "no substitutions").
How to get a refund for a missing or incorrect item in my Kroger delivery? Contact Kroger Customer Service (1-800-576-4377) or visit their Help Center to report the issue. They will guide you through the refund or replacement process.
How to know if my Kroger delivery is coming from Kroger or Instacart? During the checkout process, look for "Fulfilled by Kroger Delivery" (often with a blue truck icon) or an indication of a third-party partner like Instacart next to the delivery time slots. Your confirmation email will also usually specify this.
How to apply digital coupons to my Kroger delivery order? Ensure you "clip" digital coupons on the Kroger website or app before you finalize your order. They will automatically apply at checkout if the items qualify.
How to leave delivery instructions for my Kroger driver? During the checkout process, there's typically a section to add delivery notes or instructions, such as where to leave the groceries or gate codes. For Instacart, you can also communicate directly with your shopper once they start.
 |
