Ordering food from Kroger has become incredibly convenient, offering both delivery and pickup options that cater to your busy schedule. Gone are the days of long grocery aisles and forgotten shopping lists! With a few clicks or taps, you can have your pantry stocked and your fridge full. So, are you ready to simplify your grocery routine and get started? Let's dive in!
The Convenience of Kroger Online Ordering: Delivery vs. Pickup
Kroger understands that everyone has different needs. That's why they offer two fantastic ways to get your groceries:
Kroger Delivery: Your order is shopped by a dedicated team (either Kroger associates or third-party shoppers like Instacart) and brought right to your doorstep. This is perfect for those who are short on time, don't have a car, or simply prefer the ultimate convenience. Delivery fees vary based on the day and time slot, but Boost members often get free delivery on orders $35+.
Kroger Pickup (formerly ClickList): You shop online, select a convenient pickup time, and then drive to your chosen Kroger store. Your groceries will be picked and packed, and a friendly associate will load them directly into your car. This option is free on orders of $35 or more, with a small service fee for orders below that threshold. It's a fantastic way to save time without paying a delivery fee.
No matter which option you choose, you'll generally find the same great prices, deals, and rewards as you would in-store!
Step 1: Get Set Up – Create Your Kroger Digital Account
Before you can start filling your virtual cart with all your favorite goodies, you'll need to create a Kroger digital account. This is your gateway to online shopping, personalized offers, and seamless order management.
1.1 Visiting the Kroger Website or Downloading the App
On your computer: Open your web browser and navigate to
www.kroger.com On your mobile device: Head to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for "Kroger." Download the official Kroger app. It's designed to make mobile ordering super easy!
1.2 Registering for a New Account
Once on the website or in the app, look for the "Sign In" or "Create an Account" button. It's usually located in the top right corner.
Click on "Create an Account."
You'll be prompted to provide some basic information:
Your email address
A strong password
Your first and last name
Your ZIP Code
Important! If you already have a Kroger Plus Card (or a similar loyalty card from a Kroger family store like Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, etc.), you'll want to link it to your digital account during this process. This ensures you continue to earn fuel points and access personalized digital coupons and discounts. If you don't have one, you can often create a new one as part of the account registration.
1.3 Exploring Account Benefits
Once your account is created, you'll unlock a world of benefits! You can save shopping lists, track past purchases, and receive personalized offers that are tailored to your buying habits. This makes future orders even quicker!
Step 2: Choose Your Store and How You'll Get Your Order
This is a crucial step as it determines product availability and the services offered to you.
2.1 Selecting Your Preferred Kroger Store
After logging in, the website or app will likely prompt you to select your preferred store based on your ZIP Code. If not, look for a "Shop by Store" or "Set Location" option.
Why is this important? Product availability, prices, and even some promotions can vary by store. Choosing the correct store ensures you see the items that are actually in stock and relevant to your location.
2.2 Deciding Between Delivery and Pickup
Once your store is set, you'll typically see a prominent option to choose between "Delivery" and "Pickup." Click on the one that suits your needs for this order.
Consider these factors when choosing:
Time sensitivity: Need it fast? Check for same-day delivery or pickup slots.
Cost: Pickup is generally free for orders over $35, while delivery incurs a fee (unless you're a Boost member or have a promotion).
Convenience: Do you want it brought to your door, or are you happy to drive to the store?
Availability of slots: Popular times can fill up quickly, especially for delivery.
Step 3: Fill Your Cart with Deliciousness!
Now for the fun part – Browse and adding items to your virtual shopping cart! Kroger's online platform is designed to make this as intuitive as possible.
3.1 Browse and Searching for Products
Search Bar: The fastest way to find specific items is by using the search bar at the top of the page or app. Type in product names (e.g., "organic milk," "chicken breast," "peanut butter").
Categories/Aisles: If you're just Browse or looking for inspiration, explore the different categories or "aisles" (e.g., Produce, Dairy, Meat, Pantry, Frozen Foods).
Weekly Ads & Digital Coupons: Don't miss out on savings!
Look for a section dedicated to "Weekly Ads" or "Digital Coupons."
You can often "clip" digital coupons directly to your Shopper's Card from here. These coupons will automatically apply when you check out.
Many sale items from the weekly ad can be added directly to your cart with a single click.
3.2 Adding Items to Your Cart
When you find an item you want, specify the quantity (e.g., 2 pounds, 1 carton, 3 cans).
Click the "Add to Cart" button. You'll usually see your cart total update as you add items.
For weighted items (like produce or meat): You might be able to enter the desired weight, or the system might default to an average weight. The final price for these items will be adjusted when your order is actually picked and weighed.
3.3 Managing Substitutions (Crucial for a Smooth Experience!)
What happens if an item you ordered is out of stock? Kroger offers substitutions to ensure you still get what you need.
When adding items, or often when reviewing your cart, you'll see options for substitutions:
Allow Substitutions: This is typically the default. If an item is out of stock, the shopper will choose a similar item (e.g., a different brand of the same product, or a larger size if the smaller is unavailable).
Choose Backup Item: This is a fantastic feature! For specific items, you can pre-select an exact backup item you'd prefer if your first choice isn't available. This gives you more control.
Do Not Substitute: If you absolutely only want that specific item and nothing else, you can select "Do Not Substitute." If it's out of stock, it will simply be removed from your order.
You will be notified of any substitutions (often via text or app notification) once your shopper starts picking your order. You usually have the option to reject a substitution at the time of pickup or delivery.
Step 4: Review, Checkout, and Pay
You're almost there! This step involves finalizing your order details and making your payment.
4.1 Reviewing Your Cart and Order Details
Click on your shopping cart icon to view your entire order.
Carefully review everything! Check item quantities, prices, and ensure all desired digital coupons have been applied.
This is also where you'll confirm your chosen delivery or pickup window. Select a time slot that works best for you. Keep in mind that popular slots, especially for delivery, can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is often a good idea.
4.2 Entering Your Delivery Address or Confirming Pickup Location
If you chose delivery, you'll be prompted to enter your full delivery address.
If you chose pickup, confirm the correct store location for your pickup.
4.3 Payment Options and Confirmation
Kroger accepts a variety of payment methods, including:
Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
Debit Cards
Kroger Gift Cards
SNAP EBT (for delivery orders through Kroger.com and the Kroger mobile app)
Digital payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay might also be available.
Enter your payment information securely.
You'll see an estimated total at checkout. The final price may change slightly due to weighted items, substitutions, or applicable taxes. You won't be charged until your order is delivered or picked up.
Paper Coupons: If you have paper coupons, you generally need to present them at the time of pickup or delivery to the store associate or driver. Note: Paper coupons can usually only be used with Kroger-fulfilled delivery orders, not typically with third-party delivery services like Instacart.
Finally, click "Place Order" or "Confirm Order." You'll receive an order confirmation via email.
Step 5: Track Your Order and Receive It!
The waiting game begins! But don't worry, Kroger keeps you informed every step of the way.
5.1 Receiving Order Updates
Kroger will send you notifications (via email, app notifications, or SMS if you opt-in) about your order status.
You'll typically be notified when:
Your order has been placed.
A shopper begins picking your order.
There are any important substitution or out-of-stock updates (and you can often chat directly with your shopper for clarity on third-party fulfilled orders).
Your order is ready for pickup or on its way for delivery.
5.2 Picking Up Your Order
When your designated pickup window arrives, drive to your selected Kroger store.
Look for the designated Kroger Pickup area. This is usually well-marked with signs.
There might be specific parking spots for pickup orders.
Follow the instructions provided (e.g., call a specific number, use the app to check in).
A Kroger associate will bring your order to your car and help you load it.
Be prepared to show your government-issued photo identification and the payment card used for your order. This is particularly important for age-restricted items like alcohol or tobacco.
5.3 Receiving Your Delivery
If you chose delivery, your order will arrive during your selected time window.
A delivery driver (either Kroger's own or a third-party service) will bring your groceries to your doorstep.
For orders containing age-restricted items, an adult of legal age will need to be present to receive the order and show identification for verification and a signature.
Kroger Delivery drivers generally do not accept tips, as their compensation is already handled. However, if your order is fulfilled by a third-party service (like Instacart), you will usually have the option to add a tip.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Conveniently Ordered Food!
That's it! You've successfully navigated the world of Kroger online ordering. Unpack your groceries, put them away, and revel in the time you've saved. It’s a game-changer for busy individuals and families alike. Enjoy your fresh groceries, delivered or picked up with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about ordering food from Kroger online:
How to use digital coupons with a Kroger online order?
You can clip digital coupons directly to your Kroger Shopper's Card through the Kroger website or app. These coupons will automatically apply to eligible items in your cart when you check out online.
How to modify a Kroger online order after it's placed?
You can typically add or edit items in your Kroger online order until the store begins picking and packing it. Look for a "Modify Order" option in your order history on the website or app.
How to cancel a Kroger online order?
To cancel a pending order, sign in to your Kroger account, go to "My Purchases" or "Order History," select the order you wish to cancel, and choose the "Cancel" option. If you have trouble, contact Kroger Customer Service.
How to track my Kroger delivery order?
Kroger will send you notifications (email, app, or SMS) when your order is being picked and when it's on its way. You may also be able to track its progress directly through the app or website. For Instacart-fulfilled orders, you can often track directly in the Instacart app.
How to handle out-of-stock items or substitutions?
During the ordering process, you can choose to "Allow Substitutions," "Choose Backup Item" for specific products, or "Do Not Substitute." If a substitution is made, you'll be notified and can usually refuse it at the time of pickup or delivery.
How to pay for a Kroger online order?
Kroger accepts major credit cards, debit cards, Kroger gift cards, and SNAP EBT for online orders. You'll enter your payment information during the checkout process.
How to use paper coupons with Kroger delivery?
Generally, paper coupons can only be used with Kroger Delivery orders that are fulfilled directly by Kroger. You typically present them to the delivery driver upon arrival. Paper coupons usually cannot be used with third-party delivery services like Instacart.
How to know if Kroger delivery is available in my area?
To check if Kroger delivery is available, visit Kroger.com or open the app and enter your ZIP code and select the "Delivery" option. The system will then show you available services.
How to qualify for free Kroger delivery or pickup?
Kroger Pickup is generally free for orders of $35 or more. For delivery, Boost members often receive free delivery on orders $35+. Delivery fees otherwise vary.
How to return items from a Kroger online order?
Kroger's return policy for online orders is similar to in-store purchases. You can typically return products within 30 days with a receipt (digital or printed) and original packaging. You can often return items in-store or initiate an online return through your Kroger account.
