Have you ever found yourself wondering how to show your appreciation to the hardworking individuals who bring your Kroger groceries right to your doorstep? Tipping can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially with different delivery services and company policies. But don't worry, we're here to clear things up and guide you through the process of adding a tip to your Kroger delivery, step by step!
Understanding Kroger's Tipping Policy
Before we dive into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand Kroger's official stance on tipping. This is where it can get a little nuanced:
Kroger Delivery (by Kroger associates): For orders fulfilled directly by Kroger Delivery using trained Kroger associates, the company states: "Your smile is our reward. No tipping is necessary for our drivers since we've already taken care of it." This means that if your order is delivered by a Kroger-branded truck and a Kroger employee, tips are generally not accepted.
Third-Party Delivery (Instacart, Shipt, etc.): However, Kroger also partners with third-party delivery services like Instacart and Shipt in many markets. If your Kroger order is fulfilled through one of these partners, you absolutely can and should tip your driver! These drivers are often independent contractors, and tips make up a significant portion of their income.
So, the first and most important step is to figure out who is delivering your groceries!
 |
| How To Add Tip To Kroger Delivery |
Step 1: Determine Your Delivery Provider (Engage User!)
Alright, let's start by figuring out who's bringing your delicious groceries! Think back to when you placed your order:
Did you specifically choose "Kroger Delivery" and see a blue truck icon during checkout? If so, your delivery is likely handled directly by Kroger.
Or did you go through an app like Instacart or Shipt, and then select Kroger as your store? In this case, a third-party driver will be handling your delivery.
Knowing this distinction is key to understanding your tipping options. If you're unsure, keep an eye out for a Kroger-branded vehicle versus a personal car when your delivery arrives.
Step 2: Adding a Tip During the Ordering Process
If your order is being fulfilled by a third-party delivery service (like Instacart or Shipt), you'll typically have the option to add a tip directly within the app or website before you finalize your order.
2.1: Locating the Tipping Option
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
During Checkout: As you proceed to checkout after filling your cart, look for a section labeled "Tip," "Driver Tip," or "Gratuity." This is usually located near the total cost of your order, delivery fees, and taxes.
Default Tip Suggestions: Many apps will offer default tip percentages (e.g., 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) or dollar amounts. These are usually a good starting point.
Custom Tip: You'll also typically find an option to enter a custom tip amount. This allows you to adjust the tip based on the size of your order, the distance of the delivery, or your personal preference.
2.2: Adjusting the Tip Amount (Pre-Delivery)
Consider Your Order Size: For a large order with many heavy items, a slightly higher tip is often appreciated.
Factor in Distance: If your delivery driver has to travel a significant distance, a generous tip reflects your consideration.
Weather Conditions: On days with inclement weather (rain, snow, extreme heat), consider adding a little extra as a token of appreciation for their effort.
It's a good practice to set an initial tip amount that you feel is fair, knowing you can often adjust it later if needed.
Step 3: Adjusting or Adding a Tip After Delivery
Sometimes, you might want to adjust your tip, or you may have forgotten to add one initially. This is usually possible, but primarily for third-party delivery services.
3.1: Post-Delivery Tip Adjustment (Third-Party Services)
App Notifications: Many third-party delivery apps will send you a push notification after your delivery is complete, prompting you to rate your experience and offering the opportunity to adjust or add a tip.
Order History: You can typically go into your "Order History" or "Past Orders" section within the app or on the website. Find the relevant Kroger delivery order, and you should see an option to "Add Tip" or "Modify Tip."
Time Limit: Be aware that there's usually a time limit for adjusting tips (e.g., up to 24 hours after delivery, or sometimes even longer for adding a new tip if you didn't tip initially). Check the specific app's policy.
3.2: What About Cash Tips for Kroger Delivery?
While Kroger's official policy states their associates do not accept tips, some customers may still offer a cash tip out of habit or appreciation.
It's important to remember that Kroger associates are often discouraged or even prohibited from accepting tips. They might politely decline. If they do accept it, it's often a personal gesture and not an expected part of their compensation model from Kroger directly.
For third-party drivers, cash tips are always welcome in addition to or instead of an in-app tip.
Step 4: Contacting Customer Service for Tipping Issues (Rare)
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
In very rare cases, if you encounter an issue with tipping a third-party delivery driver or have a question specific to your order, you might need to contact customer service.
4.1: Contacting Third-Party App Support
 |
In-App Help: Most delivery apps have a "Help" or "Support" section where you can chat with a representative or find answers to FAQs.
Phone Support: If the issue is complex, you might find a customer service phone number within the app or on their website.
4.2: Contacting Kroger Customer Service
Direct Kroger Deliveries: If your question pertains to a direct Kroger Delivery (where tipping isn't expected), and you still have a query, you can contact Kroger's general customer service. Their phone number is typically 1-800-KRO-GERS (1-800-576-4377).
However, they are unlikely to facilitate adding a tip for their own associates. Their role is more about order issues, product concerns, or general service inquiries.
Important Considerations for Tipping
Clear Communication: If you're opting for a cash tip, a quick "Thank you for your excellent service!" along with the tip can make a big difference.
Safety First: Always prioritize your safety and the driver's safety. If you're uncomfortable with a cash exchange, stick to in-app tipping options.
Review Your Experience: Whether you tip or not, leaving a positive review or rating for a good delivery experience is always appreciated by both Kroger and third-party drivers. It helps them improve their service and can impact their standing within the delivery platform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, all starting with "How to," along with their quick answers:
How to know if my Kroger delivery is by a third-party or Kroger directly?
You can often tell during the checkout process: if you see an option to tip and/or the delivery slot specifies "Kroger Delivery" with a blue truck icon, it's likely Kroger directly. If you used Instacart or Shipt, it's a third-party. Also, observe the delivery vehicle and driver's attire upon arrival.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
How to add a tip if I forgot during checkout for an Instacart Kroger order?
You can typically go into your Instacart (or relevant third-party app) order history after delivery and find an option to "Add Tip" or "Modify Tip" for a certain period (usually up to 24 hours).
How to change a tip amount after delivery on a third-party app?
Most third-party delivery apps allow you to adjust the tip amount for a few hours after delivery through your order details or a post-delivery notification.
How to tip a Kroger delivery driver if they are a direct Kroger employee?
Kroger's official policy states that their direct delivery associates do not accept tips, as their compensation is handled by Kroger. While some customers may offer cash, the associates are generally discouraged from accepting them.
How to give feedback on a Kroger delivery experience?
You can usually provide feedback through the Kroger app or website after your order is complete, or by contacting Kroger customer service directly.
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
How to contact Kroger customer service about a delivery issue?
You can contact Kroger customer service at 1-800-KRO-GERS (1-800-576-4377) or through the "Contact Us" section on their website or app.
How to ensure my tip goes directly to the delivery driver?
When tipping through a third-party app like Instacart, 100% of the tip generally goes directly to the driver. Cash tips also go directly to the driver.
How to tip for Kroger pickup orders?
For Kroger Pickup (formerly ClickList), Kroger associates generally do not accept tips, similar to direct Kroger Delivery.
How to find my past Kroger delivery orders?
Log into your Kroger digital account on their website or app, and navigate to the "Purchase History" or "Past Orders" section.
How to use coupons with Kroger delivery?
Digital coupons linked to your Kroger Loyalty Card are automatically applied. For paper coupons or non-Kroger digital coupons, you may need to present them to the delivery driver upon arrival for manual application (though this varies, and many online orders only accept digital coupons).
 |
