Tired of trekking through crowded aisles, waiting in long lines, and wrestling with overflowing shopping carts? Kroger Pickup (formerly ClickList) offers a fantastic solution, letting you order your groceries online and simply pick them up at your local store. The best part? For many, it's absolutely free!
If you're wondering how to get free pickup at Kroger, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, helping you unlock the convenience and savings of Kroger Pickup.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Embrace the Convenience?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's confirm you're set up for success!
First, do you have a Kroger Digital Account? This is the absolute cornerstone of using Kroger Pickup. If you don't have one, don't worry, it's quick and easy to create! You'll also need to link your Kroger Shopper's Card (or create a new one during account setup) to maximize your savings. This card is essential for accessing digital coupons and earning fuel points.
Next, do you have internet access and a device to shop from? Whether it's your computer, tablet, or smartphone (the Kroger app is incredibly user-friendly!), you'll need a way to browse and build your order.
Are you looking to save time and potentially money? Kroger Pickup is designed precisely for that! By planning your purchases online, you can stick to your budget, avoid impulse buys, and free up precious time in your day.
If you answered "yes" to these, you're ready to embark on your free Kroger Pickup journey!
Step 2: Setting Up Your Kroger Digital Account & Linking Your Shopper's Card
This is where your journey to free pickup truly begins.
Sub-heading: Creating Your Digital Account (If You Don't Have One)
Visit Kroger.com or Download the Kroger App: Head to the official Kroger website or search for "Kroger" in your device's app store (available for iOS and Android).
Click "Create Account" or "Register": Look for the prominent button to start the registration process.
Provide Your Information: You'll typically be asked for your email address, a password, and your ZIP code.
Link Your Shopper's Card: This is crucial for accessing digital coupons and discounts. If you already have a physical Kroger Shopper's Card, enter its number or the alternative ID associated with it. If you don't have one, you'll usually be prompted to create a new digital one during this step. Make sure it's linked correctly!
Confirm Your Account: You might receive an email verification. Follow the instructions to finalize your account creation.
Sub-heading: Ensuring Your Shopper's Card is Linked
Even if you have an account, it's a good idea to double-check that your Shopper's Card is linked.
Log In: Access your Kroger Digital Account on the website or app.
Navigate to "My Account" or "Profile": Look for a section related to your account settings.
Verify Shopper's Card Information: You should see details about your linked Shopper's Card. If it's not there, look for an option to "Link Card" or "Add Shopper's Card" and follow the prompts.
Remember: Without a linked Shopper's Card, you won't be able to clip digital coupons, which are key to saving money and sometimes a prerequisite for certain free pickup offers.
Step 3: Finding Your Free Pickup Opportunity
While Kroger often offers free pickup, especially for orders meeting a minimum threshold, here's how to ensure you're getting it for free.
Sub-heading: Look for Minimum Spend Requirements
The most common way to get free Kroger Pickup is by meeting a minimum order amount. This is typically $35.
Start Shopping: Begin adding items to your online cart.
Monitor Your Cart Total: As you add items, keep an eye on your cart's running total. The Kroger website and app usually display this clearly.
Check for "Free Pickup" Notifications: Often, once you reach the minimum spend, you'll see a notification or the pickup fee will automatically disappear at checkout.
Sub-heading: Utilize First-Time User Offers
Kroger frequently entices new online shoppers with special promotions. These can often include:
A specific dollar amount off your first pickup order (e.g., "$20 off your first pickup order of $75 or more").
Free pickup on your first order regardless of the total.
How to find these offers:
Check the Kroger Website/App Homepage: Look for banners or pop-ups advertising "New Customer Offers" or "First-Time Pickup Savings."
Browse the "Digital Coupons" Section: Sometimes, these offers are available as digital coupons you need to "clip."
Sign Up for Emails: If you're a new user, signing up for Kroger emails often results in receiving introductory offers directly in your inbox.
Be sure to read the terms and conditions of these offers, as they may have expiration dates or minimum spend requirements.
Sub-heading: Consider a Kroger Boost Membership
For frequent Kroger shoppers, a Kroger Boost Membership can be a game-changer for saving on both pickup and delivery.
Understand Boost Benefits:
Free Delivery: Boost members typically receive free delivery on orders of $35 or more (depending on the Boost tier). While this guide is about pickup, the "free delivery" benefit is often tied to the same membership that offers enhanced pickup benefits like 2x Fuel Points on pickup orders.
2x Fuel Points: This means you earn double the fuel points on every dollar spent on groceries and general merchandise, whether shopping in-store, for pickup, or for delivery. While it doesn't make pickup free in terms of a direct fee waiver (as pickup is often already free with a minimum spend), it adds significant value.
Exclusive Offers: Boost members often get access to special member-only deals and promotions, which can further reduce your overall grocery bill.
Choose Your Plan: Kroger Boost offers different tiers (e.g., Boost Essential, Boost with Same-Day Delivery) with varying annual fees and benefits. Evaluate which plan best suits your shopping habits.
Enroll in Boost: You can typically enroll directly through the Kroger website or app. Look for the "Boost Membership" section.
While Boost doesn't directly offer "free pickup" as a standalone benefit (because pickup is often free anyway), the fuel points and exclusive offers can make it a highly valuable investment if you use Kroger frequently.
Step 4: Building Your Online Shopping Cart
This is where you virtually stroll through the aisles!
Sub-heading: Browse and Searching for Items
Use the Search Bar: If you know exactly what you need, type it into the search bar.
Explore Categories: Browse by department (Produce, Dairy, Meat, Pantry, etc.) to discover new items or find inspiration.
Shop the Weekly Ad: Always check the weekly ad on the app or website. You can often add sale items directly to your cart with a single click.
Check "My Usuals" or "Past Purchases": For returning customers, Kroger's platform often saves your frequently purchased items, making reordering a breeze.
Sub-heading: Clipping Digital Coupons
This is where the real savings happen!
Navigate to the "Digital Coupons" Section: This is usually a prominent tab or link on the Kroger website or app.
"Clip" Coupons: For each coupon you want to use, click the "Clip" or "Add to Card" button. Once clipped, the discount will automatically apply when you purchase the qualifying item with your linked Shopper's Card.
Stacking Savings: Kroger often allows you to combine one manufacturer coupon (digital or paper) and one Kroger digital coupon per item, plus any store promotions. Be a savvy shopper and look for these opportunities!
Sub-heading: Managing Substitutions
Kroger's personal shoppers do their best to fulfill your order exactly, but sometimes items are out of stock.
Understand Substitution Preferences: During checkout, you'll have the option to:
Allow substitutions: If an item is unavailable, the shopper will select a similar alternative (e.g., a different brand or size of the same product).
Do not allow substitutions: If an item is out of stock, it will simply be removed from your order, and you won't be charged for it.
Choose Backup Items: For specific items, you can even designate a preferred backup item. This gives you more control over what you receive if your first choice isn't available. This is a great feature to ensure you get what you need!
Communication is Key: If you enable text alerts, your shopper might text you with substitution options for your approval during the picking process. Respond promptly to ensure you get the items you want.
Step 5: Scheduling Your Pickup Time and Checking Out
Almost there! This is where you finalize your order.
Sub-heading: Selecting Your Preferred Store and Time Slot
Choose Your Store: Make sure the correct Kroger location is selected for your pickup. This is usually determined by your ZIP code during account setup, but you can change it if needed.
Select Pickup Time: You'll see available time slots for pickup. These usually span several days and have specific windows (e.g., 10 AM - 11 AM). Choose a time that works best with your schedule. Popular times can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so book in advance if possible.
Verify Pickup is Free: At this stage, you should clearly see whether a pickup fee is being applied or if it's indeed free based on your order total or any promotions.
Sub-heading: Payment Information
Enter Payment Details: You'll need to provide a credit/debit card. Kroger's system typically allows you to save this information for future orders.
Authorization Hold: Be aware that Kroger may place an authorization hold on your card for slightly more than your estimated total. This accounts for potential substitutions or weighted items. You'll only be charged for the actual items you receive.
Review Your Order: Before confirming, take a moment to review all your items, prices, and clipped coupons. Ensure everything looks correct.
Sub-heading: Confirming Your Order
Once you've reviewed everything, click "Place Order" or "Confirm Order." You'll receive an email confirmation with your order details and pickup time.
Step 6: Picking Up Your Groceries
The easiest part of the whole process!
Sub-heading: Receiving Notifications
"Order Ready" Alert: You'll typically receive a text message or app notification when your order is ready for pickup, often a little before your scheduled time.
Instructions for Pickup: The notification will also usually include instructions on where to park (often designated "Pickup" spots) and how to alert the store that you've arrived (e.g., call a number, use the app's "I'm Here" button).
Sub-heading: Arriving at the Store
Drive to the Designated Pickup Area: Look for clear signage directing you to the Kroger Pickup parking spots. They are usually well-marked and often close to the store entrance.
Check In: Follow the instructions in your notification. This usually involves:
Using the "I'm Here" button in the Kroger app: This is the most common and efficient method.
Calling the provided phone number: If you don't have the app or prefer to call.
Providing your name and order number.
Sub-heading: Loading Your Groceries
Stay in Your Car: A friendly Kroger associate will bring your groceries directly to your vehicle. You generally don't need to get out.
Confirm Your Order: They will usually confirm your name and order number.
Tip (Optional): While not required, some customers choose to tip their pickup associates, especially for large orders or exceptional service. Kroger's policy on tipping may vary by location.
Check for Cold Items: Quickly glance to ensure you have all your items, especially cold and frozen ones, before driving away.
And just like that, you've successfully completed your free Kroger Pickup! Enjoy your fresh groceries and the time you've saved.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Kroger store offers free pickup?
Most Kroger locations offer free pickup with a minimum order amount (typically $35). To confirm for your specific store, visit Kroger.com or use the Kroger app, enter your ZIP code, and select your preferred store. When you start building an order, it will clearly indicate if pickup is available and any associated fees or free pickup thresholds.
How to get a digital Kroger Shopper's Card if I don't have one?
When you create a Kroger Digital Account online or through the app, you will be given the option to link an existing physical Shopper's Card or create a new digital one. Simply follow the prompts during the account creation process.
How to clip digital coupons for my Kroger pickup order?
Log into your Kroger Digital Account on the website or app. Navigate to the "Digital Coupons" section. Browse through the available coupons and click the "Clip" or "Add to Card" button for each coupon you wish to use. They will automatically apply when you purchase the qualifying item during your pickup order.
How to modify or cancel a Kroger pickup order?
You can usually modify or cancel your Kroger pickup order through your digital account on the website or app. Look for your "Order History" or "Upcoming Orders" and select the order you wish to change. There will typically be a deadline for modifications or cancellations before the picking process begins.
How to handle substitutions for my Kroger pickup order?
During the checkout process, you'll be given options for substitutions: "Allow Substitutions," "Do Not Allow Substitutions," or "Choose Backup Item" for specific products. If you allow substitutions, a Kroger associate will select a comparable item if your original choice is out of stock. You may also receive text messages to approve substitutions while your order is being picked.
How to know when my Kroger pickup order is ready?
Kroger will typically send you a text message or app notification when your order is ready for pickup, usually shortly before your scheduled pickup window. This notification will also include instructions on how to check in upon arrival.
How to check in at Kroger for my pickup order?
Once you arrive at the designated Kroger Pickup parking spot, open your Kroger app and use the "I'm Here" button. Alternatively, the notification you received about your order being ready will often provide a phone number to call for check-in.
How to earn fuel points with Kroger pickup?
You earn fuel points on qualifying purchases made through Kroger Pickup just as you would with in-store shopping, provided your Kroger Shopper's Card is linked to your digital account. Kroger Boost members often earn 2x fuel points on pickup orders.
How to use a promo code for Kroger pickup?
If you have a promo code, you'll typically enter it during the checkout process on the Kroger website or app. Look for a field labeled "Promo Code" or "Add Coupon Code" and apply it before finalizing your order.
How to find out about new Kroger pickup offers and deals?
The best ways to stay informed about new Kroger pickup offers and deals are:
Checking the Kroger website and app regularly: Look for banners and dedicated savings sections.
Subscribing to Kroger's email newsletter: Promotions are often sent directly to your inbox.
Following Kroger's social media accounts: They frequently announce new deals there.
Browse the "Digital Coupons" section: New coupons are typically added weekly.
