Have you ever wished for a simpler way to tackle your weekly grocery run, avoiding crowded aisles and long checkout lines? Well, Kroger's online ordering service is here to make that wish a reality! Whether you prefer the convenience of having your groceries delivered right to your doorstep or the speed of a quick pickup, Kroger has you covered. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Step 1: Getting Started – Setting Up Your Kroger Digital Account
Ready to dive into the world of online grocery shopping? The very first thing you'll need is a Kroger Digital Account. It's your gateway to unlocking all the online shopping features, including loading digital coupons, earning fuel points, and, of course, placing your orders!
Sub-heading: Creating Your Account
If you already have a Kroger Plus Card (loyalty card):
Visit the Kroger website (Kroger.com) or download the Kroger mobile app (available on iOS and Android).
Click on "Sign In" at the top right corner of the website or the equivalent option in the app.
Select "Create an Account."
You'll be prompted to enter your existing Kroger Plus Card number or your alternative ID (usually your phone number). Follow the on-screen instructions to link it to your new digital account. This ensures you continue to earn all your valuable rewards and discounts!
Fill in your email address and create a strong password.
Complete any remaining required fields.
If you don't have a Kroger Plus Card:
No worries! You can still create a digital account.
Go to Kroger.com or open the Kroger app.
Click "Sign In" and then "Create an Account."
You'll be guided through creating a new digital account and a virtual Kroger Plus Card will be automatically assigned to you. You'll need to provide your name, email, and create a password.
It's a good idea to add your phone number as an "Alt ID" in your profile for easy lookup at checkout if you ever shop in-store.
Sub-heading: Why a Digital Account is Essential
Your Kroger Digital Account is more than just a login; it's your personalized shopping hub. It allows you to:
Access and load digital coupons: These are key to maximizing your savings!
Track your past purchases: Great for quickly reordering your favorite items.
Manage your preferences: Including substitution options and communication settings.
Accumulate fuel points: Every dollar spent earns you points towards fuel savings.
Step 2: Choosing Your Shopping Method – Pickup or Delivery?
Once your digital account is ready, it's time to decide how you want to receive your groceries. Kroger offers two fantastic options: Pickup and Delivery. Each has its own benefits, so consider what works best for your schedule and lifestyle.
Sub-heading: Understanding Your Options
Kroger Pickup (formerly ClickList): This service allows you to shop online, and Kroger associates will hand-pick and bag your order. You then drive to your chosen Kroger store, park in a designated pickup spot, and they'll bring your groceries right to your car.
Pros: Often has a lower service fee (or sometimes no fee at all for larger orders or first-time users), you control the pickup time, and it's great for those who are out and about.
Cons: Requires you to drive to the store.
Kroger Delivery: With this option, your groceries are shopped and delivered directly to your home. Kroger may use their own delivery fleet (often identifiable by their refrigerated blue trucks) or partner with third-party services like Instacart or Shipt.
Pros: Ultimate convenience – your groceries come to you! Saves time and gas.
Cons: Typically has a higher delivery fee, and delivery windows can sometimes be limited or fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Tipping might be expected with third-party delivery services.
Sub-heading: Selecting Your Preferred Store and Method
On the Kroger Website:
After logging in, you'll usually see a prompt at the top of the page to enter your ZIP code. Do this first.
Then, you'll be given the option to choose between "Pickup" or "Delivery." Select your preference.
If you choose Pickup, you'll then be asked to select your preferred Kroger store from a list of nearby locations.
If you choose Delivery, your address will be used to determine eligible delivery services and stores.
On the Kroger Mobile App:
The app usually prompts you to select your store and shopping method immediately after logging in.
You can change these preferences at any time through the app's settings or by tapping on the store name/delivery icon on the main screen.
Important Note: Ensure the store you select offers the Pickup or Delivery service you desire, as not all services are available at every location.
Step 3: Building Your Basket – Shopping for Groceries Online
Now for the fun part: filling your virtual cart! Kroger's online platform is designed to make shopping intuitive and efficient.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Online Aisles
Searching for Items: Use the prominent search bar at the top of the page or app. Type in specific product names (e.g., "organic milk," "ground beef"), brands (e.g., "Kraft," "Coca-Cola"), or even general categories (e.g., "produce," "dairy").
Browse Categories: If you prefer to browse, click on the "Shop" or "Categories" menu. You'll find well-organized sections like "Fresh Produce," "Meat & Seafood," "Dairy & Cheese," "Pantry," "Frozen," "Household Essentials," and more.
Digital Coupons and Deals: Always keep an eye out for digital coupons! These are usually highlighted on product pages or in a dedicated "Digital Coupons" section. Click "Load to Card" for any coupon you want to use. The discount will automatically apply when you purchase the qualifying item with your linked Kroger Plus Card.
Weekly Ads: Don't forget to check the "Weekly Ad" section for current sales and promotions. You can often "clip" these deals directly to your card.
Sub-heading: Adding Items to Your Cart
When you find an item you want, click on it to see more details, including price, size, and nutritional information.
Enter the desired quantity and click "Add to Cart." For weighted items like produce, you'll often add by approximate weight or quantity, and the final price will be adjusted at the time of picking/delivery based on actual weight.
You'll see your cart total update as you add items.
Sub-heading: Managing Substitutions
Kroger understands that sometimes an item might be out of stock. During the shopping process or at checkout, you'll have the option to allow or disallow substitutions for each item.
Allow Substitutions: If you select this, Kroger's shopper will choose a similar item if your preferred one is unavailable. You can often specify "best match," "cheaper item," or "more expensive item." This is generally recommended to ensure you get all your necessities.
Don't Allow Substitutions: If an item is out of stock, it will simply be removed from your order.
Important Tip: You can also opt-in for substitution notifications (via text or app). This allows you to approve or reject substitutions in real-time as the shopper picks your order. This gives you maximum control!
Step 4: Reviewing Your Order and Checking Out
Once your cart is full, it's time to review everything and finalize your purchase. This is a critical step to ensure accuracy and apply all your savings.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Cart Thoroughly
Click on your shopping cart icon to view all the items you've selected.
Carefully review each item: Check quantities, ensure you haven't accidentally added duplicates, and verify that all your desired digital coupons have been applied. Digital coupon discounts usually appear as "ecpn" on your receipt.
This is your last chance to make any adjustments before proceeding.
Sub-heading: Selecting Your Time Slot and Payment
Choose Your Time Slot:
For Pickup: You'll be presented with available one-hour pickup windows. Select the day and time that works best for you. These slots can fill up, especially during peak hours, so booking in advance is a good idea.
For Delivery: You'll see available delivery windows, which can range from same-day (as little as 2 hours, sometimes with an "Express" fee) to several days in advance. Fees may vary based on the chosen time slot and whether it's Kroger-fulfilled or a third-party delivery.
Enter Your Address (for Delivery): Provide your full delivery address.
Payment Information:
Kroger typically accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover).
SNAP EBT payments are now accepted for online delivery orders in many areas. You'll add your SNAP EBT card during checkout.
Kroger Pay is also an option if you have it set up.
Gift cards and WIC are generally not accepted for online orders directly, though you might be able to use a physical gift card for pickup orders when paying at the store.
You'll see an estimated total, but note that the final price may vary slightly due to weighted items, substitutions, or last-minute coupons. Your card will be charged upon delivery or pickup.
Sub-heading: Confirming Your Order
After reviewing all details and entering payment information, click "Place Order" or "Confirm Order."
You'll receive an email confirmation with your order details and an estimated total. Keep this for your records!
Step 5: Receiving Your Groceries – Pickup or Delivery Day!
The day has arrived! This final step brings your fresh groceries to you.
Sub-heading: For Pickup Orders
Notifications: Kroger will usually send you a text or app notification when your order is being shopped and again when it's ready for pickup.
Arriving at the Store: Drive to your chosen Kroger store during your selected pickup window. Follow the signs for "Online Pickup" or "ClickList" – there are usually designated parking spots.
Check-in: Many stores have signs with a phone number to call or instructions to use the Kroger app to "check in" upon arrival.
Receiving Your Order: A Kroger associate will bring your order to your car. They will confirm your name and may ask for a government-issued photo ID and the payment card used for the order, especially if your order contains age-restricted items like alcohol. This is also your chance to review any substitutions and decline them if you wish.
Paper Coupons: If you have physical paper coupons, you can present them to the associate at the time of pickup for processing.
Sub-heading: For Delivery Orders
Notifications: You'll receive notifications when your order is being shopped, when it's on its way, and when it has been delivered.
Delivery Arrival: Your delivery driver will arrive at your specified address during your delivery window.
Receiving Your Order:
If your order contains age-restricted items (alcohol, tobacco), an adult of legal age with a valid ID must be present to receive and sign for the order.
For other orders, the driver may leave the groceries at your door, or you may need to be present depending on your location and the specific delivery service.
Review your receipt upon delivery. It will reflect any substitutions or unavailable items. If you don't want a substituted item, you can typically refuse it at the time of delivery or request a refund later through the website/app.
Paper Coupons: If your order is fulfilled by Kroger Delivery (not a third-party partner like Instacart), Kroger drivers can usually accept and scan paper coupons upon delivery. Savings will be reflected on your final receipt. Note: Third-party delivery drivers typically cannot accept paper coupons.
Step 6: Post-Order Management and Feedback
Your order is complete, but the process doesn't end there! Kroger offers ways to manage your purchases and provide feedback.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Past Orders and Reordering
You can always log into your digital account on the website or app to view your purchase history. This makes it incredibly easy to quickly reorder frequently purchased items, saving you time on future shopping trips.
Sub-heading: Providing Feedback and Customer Service
Kroger values your feedback. If you have any issues with your order (missing items, damaged products, unsatisfactory substitutions), or simply want to share your experience, you can:
Contact Kroger Customer Service: 1-800-KROGERS (1-800-576-4377).
Use the chat or email options available on their website or app.
Navigate to "My Purchases" on the website or app to request a refund for specific items.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with everything you need to confidently order groceries from Kroger online. Enjoy the convenience and reclaim your valuable time!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to create a Kroger Digital Account if I don't have a Plus Card?
You can create a new digital account on Kroger.com or through the Kroger app without an existing Plus Card. A virtual loyalty card will be automatically assigned to you.
How to tell the difference between Kroger Delivery and third-party delivery?
During checkout, when selecting your time slot, look for "Fulfilled by Kroger Delivery" and typically a "Blue Truck" icon. If it's a third-party service like Instacart, it will usually specify that name.
How to use digital coupons when ordering online?
Simply log into your Kroger digital account, browse the "Digital Coupons" section, and click "Load to Card" for any coupons you want to use. They will automatically apply to qualifying items in your online order when your Kroger Plus Card is linked.
How to allow or manage substitutions for my online order?
During the online shopping process or at checkout, you'll find options for each item to "Allow Substitution" or "Do Not Substitute." You can also often opt-in for real-time text notifications to approve or reject substitutions as your order is being picked.
How to pay for my Kroger online grocery order?
Kroger accepts major credit and debit cards. SNAP EBT payments are also accepted for delivery orders in many areas. Kroger Pay can also be used if set up. Cash, checks, physical gift cards, and WIC are generally not accepted for online orders.
How to get free delivery from Kroger?
Kroger offers a "Boost by Kroger Plus" membership which includes unlimited free delivery on orders of $35 or more (with different tiers for next-day or same-day delivery). Occasional promotions or first-time user offers may also provide free delivery.
How to use paper coupons with my online Kroger order?
For Kroger Pickup orders, you can present paper coupons to the associate when they bring your groceries to your car. For Kroger Delivery orders, if fulfilled by Kroger associates, they can typically accept paper coupons at delivery. However, third-party delivery drivers (like Instacart) generally cannot accept paper coupons.
How to track the status of my Kroger online order?
Kroger will send you email or text notifications with updates on your order, including when it's being processed, when it's ready for pickup, or when it's on its way for delivery. You can also typically view the status within the "My Purchases" section of your Kroger digital account on the website or app.
How to cancel or modify a Kroger online order after it's placed?
Generally, you have a limited window to modify or cancel an order after it's placed, usually before the shopping process begins. Check your order confirmation email or the "My Purchases" section of your digital account for options. If you need immediate assistance, contact Kroger Customer Service.
How to request a refund for an item from a Kroger online order?
If you're not satisfied with an item, or if something was missing or damaged, you can request a refund by navigating to "My Purchases" on the Kroger website or mobile app, selecting the relevant order, and choosing the "Request a Refund" option. You can also contact Kroger Customer Service for assistance. Refunds are typically processed back to your original payment method.
