Kroger (Fry’s) offers Grocery Pickup, formerly called Clicklist.

My own list of Fry’s Grocery Pickup FAQ’s was long, so I got to work researching and testing to review Fry’s ClickList/Grocery Pickup and answer some FAQ’s for you and help you figure out how it all works, down to the little details you may not even think about until it’s too late.

Order your groceries online and pick them up at a Kroger (Fry’s) location near you.  That’s the simple summary, but if you’re like me you also have some hesitations and questions surrounding it all.  I’ve addressed as many questions as I can think of and will share my experience with you.  I will keep this updated if changes are made.

First, a little trivia. Kroger decided to call it “Grocery Pickup” so it’s not called “ClickList” anymore.  You’re not crazy if you have that stuck in your mind!

The ordering process is fairly simple.  First of all, when you’re on their website, make sure that your preferred store is a store that offers pickup.  It is not available at all locations, but they continue to add new locations.  This will ensure that you’re shopping the correct store’s inventory as you are selecting your items.

You can type in the name of your product and then add it to your cart.  Or, scroll through their suggestions based on previous items you’ve purchased and click on what you want to add.  You can also choose categories if you don’t have something really specific in mind.

You have to provide a debit or credit card during the online checkout process.  The total will be adjusted after your final items are rung up at the location.  There may be some discrepancies based on the weight of items selected or price changes.

When you checkout, verify that you have the correct location and choose a one-hour time slot to pick up your groceries.  They suggest you go in the middle of that time slot for the fastest service.  Near me, time slots seem to be available seven days a week, from 7 am – 8 pm.

These are the basics, but there are many more things to learn if you want to understand it all and maximize your savings.

 

Fry’s Grocery Pickup during Coronavirus

For a limited time, due to the Coronavirus, Fry’s is offering free pickup service for all orders $35 or more.  (It was free for many months, but they started requiring a minimum beginning on 11/4/20.)

I’d make sure you’re at a little over $35 in case something is out of stock, so your total will remain $35+.

If your total drops below $35 and you’re still charged the $4.95 fee, I’d mention it when they bring out your groceries or call customer service when you get home, to see if they’ll waive the fee.

Digital coupons lower your total.  Paper coupons do not.

How much does Fry’s Grocery Pickup cost?

Your first three orders are free!  Beyond that, there is a $4.95 fee for each pickup at Fry’s.  Due to Covid-19, the fee has been waived if your order is $35+.  (Fees can vary for other Kroger regions, but that is the most common price.)

Sometimes, there are digital coupons available that will waive that fee if you load the coupon.  Look for coupons that indicate pickup will be free if you buy qualifying products.

In their app, you can go to the coupon tab (bottom) and then tap “Sort & Filter.”  Make sure the slider is in the “on” position to “Show Pickup & Delivery Offers.”

Online, go to “Save” on the top menu bar.  Click “Digital Coupons.” Then, in the “Specials Savings” area on the left, you can select “Pickup Only” if you want to search for just those coupons.  Of course, remember to reset it, when you’re looking for other coupons.

Do you pay more for groceries if using Fry’s grocery pickup?

You pay the same amount you would if you shopped inside a Fry’s/Kroger on your own if you use their pickup service.  There is no upcharge.  If something is on sale, you’ll pay that price.  Be aware that pricing could change between when you order and pickup.  If there’s a sale item in your cart, make sure you are picking it up while the sale is still in progress.

Can you use coupons with Fry’s grocery pickup?

You can use digital or paper coupons with Fry’s/Kroger grocery pickup.

Kroger digital coupons can be loaded as you’re adding items to your cart.  If you choose an item with a digital coupon, it will show up under the item description and you can load it with a simple click.

If you prefer, you can browse their digital coupons and look for good deals.  You can see all current pricing and items included if you click on “qualifying products.”  From the coupon section, you can add items to your cart without going back and forth.

Keep in mind that your online total will appear to be higher than you’ll pay in the end.  Digital coupons are not deducted until everything is gathered and your order is rung up, during the pickup process.  If you are using a coupon that requires a minimum purchase, make sure you have hit that total before any digital coupons are deducted.

Paper coupons (printable and from the newspaper) are also accepted.  Some stores will limit the number of identical coupons you’re allowed to use.  Five seems to be the normal number, though each store can set its own rules.

When you call from your parking space, tell the associate that you have coupons you want to redeem.  Someone will come to get them and adjust your total.  It’s preferred that they know you have them ahead, in case they’re out for someone else.  It saves you some time and saves them some steps. But, if you forget, just tell them you have coupons when they come to your vehicle.

For most stores, paper coupons are seen as legal tender and will not reduce your total, if you’re trying to meet a threshold coupon like “Spend $40 save $2.”  If your total drops under $40 after the paper coupons come off, the $2 should still come off your overall order.  This is not true for digital coupon deductions.  Those lower your threshold total and you won’t get the $2 off if your total drops under $40.

 

How do you save money at Fry’s?

For a limited time, we’re offering our complete coupon class (regularly $20) for free!  You will have access for 30 days.  Learning all about digital coupons and other programs they offer will help you maximize your savings, even with their grocery pickup service.

There is a module about Fry’s, both in written and video format, as well as most other Arizona stores. Everything is focused on Arizona, but some are national chains and there are also some modules about saving in general.  Check it out here.

Where do you go to get Fry’s pickup orders?

The exact location will vary from store to store, but look for a set of parking spaces with signs in front of them, probably off to the side a little, at the front of the store.  You’ll pull into a spot and call the phone number on the sign.  An employee will bring your order out to you and even load the items for you.  You will never need to get out of your vehicle.

Do you tip for Fry’s (Kroger) grocery pickup orders?

Associates are not able to accept tips.  Keep reading to learn more helpful information that can help you have a successful pickup.

Can you be late for a Fry’s grocery pickup order?

You choose a one-hour window for pickup.  If you are unable to hit that hour slot, you can pick it up later the same day.  If you wait beyond that day, your order will have already been canceled and restocked, and you’ll need to place another order.

How do you get free digital coupon items that are offered when doing Fry’s pickup?

If you have a digital coupon loaded for a free offer, make sure you put that item in your cart.  The manager told me this is a common mistake people make.  The people who gather your items won’t know to get your freebies unless they are on your list.  If you have the coupon loaded, the price of the item will be deducted during the final checkout process, so your online total will appear higher until you do your pickup.

How far ahead can you schedule a Fry’s grocery pickup?

You can add items to your cart anytime, to keep a running grocery list.  Items can be saved and are able to be viewed or modified each time you log in.  When you’re ready to order, you are can schedule a pickup three days beyond the current date, so you usually have four days to choose from when scheduling your pick up.  After you choose at least one item, you can click “Checkout Now” to see what the availability is.  Times near me seem to be 7 am-8 pm.

Keep in mind that you will pay whatever the price is on the day you pick up, not the day you order.  If you’re shopping online at the end of a weekly sale and pick up when the sale has ended, you won’t get the sale pricing.

How quickly can you get your Fry’s pickup order?

Depending on availability, there’s a chance your groceries will be ready in as little as a few hours.  In most cases, if you place your order by 1 pm, you’ll be able to schedule a pickup the same day.

Can you change a Fry’s online order after you submit it?

You can add or edit items in your order until midnight the day before your scheduled pickup.  Go to “My Purchases” under “My Account” and make any desired changes.

How do you cancel a Fry’s online order?

You can cancel a pending order by going to “My Purchases” under “My Account.”  If you are unable to cancel your order, call customer service at 1-800-576-4377, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to Midnight ET, and Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 am to 9:30 pm ET.

Why is my Fry’s online grocery pickup total so high?

None of your digital coupons will be deducted from your total until you arrive to pick up your groceries.  Also, if there is a Mega Sale going on, the online prices and total show the price before any discounts are taken off.  (Ex.  If there’s a Buy 5, Save $5 sale, each item in your cart will show the full price, before the $1 comes off each item.  When you pick up your groceries, $1 for each item will come off, if you chose more than 5 of those items.)  Be aware that you will probably have a hold on your card, for the full amount.  (See below.)

Another reason your online total could be higher than you think it should is that you are aware of sale prices before the sale begins.  You may see their ad on Monday or Tuesday and schedule a pickup for Wednesday.  You will be charged whatever the price is on the day of pickup, so your total will go down if you chose items that will be on sale that day.

Why did Fry’s put a hold or pending charge on my credit/debit card for my online order?

For various reasons (see above), the total shown online can be significantly higher than what you actually spend.  Be aware that they will put a hold/pending purchase request on your credit or debit card.  It can vary from one card to another, but the hold could be there for several days after you pick up your order.  It took three days for my pending amount to adjust down and turn into an actual charge.

If you’re close to your credit card limit or use a debit card, this could be an issue for you.  I wish it was updated when the purchase was made, but it wasn’t, at least with my Chase Visa.

Do you get sale prices with Fry’s pickup orders?

Yes, you will pay the advertised pricing, the same as if you went into the store to shop.  If you notice a discrepancy, let the associate know or call their customer service after you get home.  If you can’t find the sale pricing listed on their website, you can add a note to the item, telling them you only want it if it’s the same price as the ad states.  They’re pretty good at reading those and making needed adjustments.

Keep in mind that if you place your order during one ad-cyle and your pickup date is during another, pricing will change.  (Sales at Fry’s begin on Wednesdays and end on Tuesdays.  But, also be aware of weekends or other special days/times when sale prices apply.)  You pay whatever the selling price is on the day you pick up, which is when they actually ring up your purchase.

Can you use Fry’s online ordering with Mega Sales?

During a Mega Sale (Ex.  Buy 5, Save $5), your total will appear higher if you are choosing items included in the mix and match sale.  The discount will come off at the end, during pickup.  Just double-check your receipt during pickup.

These sales have changed.  You no longer have to buy in exact multiples, so this is great for pickup!  You may want to throw in an extra item or two, just in case they are out of something.  You don’t want to pay an additional $1 each for four items when you could have gotten one more item and saved $1 on all 5!

When you choose any five items that are included in the sale, you will save $5.  One dollar will be deducted from each of the five items.  You will also save an additional $1 for each item over 5 that you get (or whatever the number indicated in the sale).  Remember, it doesn’t have to be 5 of the same item.  There are always many items to mix & match with.

Not all items are labeled as being part of the Mega Sale on their website.  There will be some items that you’re not 100% sure are included in the sale.  If you saw it in their online or paper ad, it will ring up as a Mega Sale item, even if it isn’t indicated on their website.

How can you tell if an item is part of a Fry’s Mega Sale by looking online?

They have started making it easy to tell if you’re choosing a Mega Sale item…sometimes.  It will say “Buy 4, Save $4” (or similar) by the listed pricing.  You will pay less than the yellow listed price if you buy AT LEAST the required number.  No need to buy in exact multiples anymore!  For example, for the $1.97 shown in yellow, you would really only pay 97¢ with the $1 that would come off, if you buy at least 4 items that are marked the same way, which are included in the sale.

Keep in mind that we’ve found many products that are tagged in the store, but don’t indicate that they’re part of the Mega Sale online.  So, this isn’t foolproof, but it should make you confident in the items that are properly marked online.  But, we’ve found that it’s very likely that more items are included in the Mega Sale.  If there’s ever a discrepancy, call their customer service line.

Can you pay with cash for Fry’s pickup orders?

Cash is not accepted, for the safety of employees.   You need to pay with credit, debit, or SNAP/EBT.

Can you use SNAP/EBT or WIC for Fry’s pickup orders?

During the Covid-19 crisis, they are accepting EBT SNAP payments, but only in select regions.  If your area is accepting them, you will see it as a payment option when you put something in your cart and begin the checkout process.  (Test it before investing too much time, if you can’t pay another way.)  You will need to bring your EBT card for pickup, along with a credit or debit card to cover any remaining balance.  I’m guessing this will continue beyond this time period, but I’m not 100% sure yet.

At this time, WIC is not being accepted.

Can you use a gift card for Fry’s pickup orders?

No, you are not able to use a gift card to pay for Fry’s/Kroger pickup orders.

Is there a minimum order requirement for Fry’s grocery pickup?

Nope!  There aren’t any minimum or maximum order parameters for Fry’s/Kroger grocery pickup.  Just keep in mind that you’ll pay $4.95 if your total isn’t over $35.

Will you get a Catalina coupon when using Fry’s grocery pickup?

I was told that they don’t have a Catalina printer where they ring up your order and you won’t receive the coupon.  Gina asked about it and they told her just to let them know and they could make sure to get it for her.  So, this seems to be something that will vary from store to store.  If you expect a Catalina coupon, I would mention it when you call for them to come deliver your groceries.  I think there is a chance that they can go to another register to do the final step and you may receive it.  Again, this will vary, so you can’t count on it.  (If you’re not sure what a Catalina is, you can read about them here.)

Does produce & meat count by each item or by the pound for Fry’s pickup?

This varies from item to item.  Don’t assume that if the pricing is by the pound that by choosing “one” you’re getting a pound.  Most likely, you’ll only get one piece of produce.  For instance, if you choose bananas, make sure you tell them how many you want.  If it’s grapes, you can count on it being an average package, not one grape.  However, if you want a specific weight of grapes, make a note and that’s what you’ll get.  If you’re in doubt, make a special note.

You can usually tell when they are counting each item because they will break down the “each” cost when you are getting something they sell by the pound.

Meat packaging varies, but they usually state how many pieces are in the package or if it’s being sold by the pound.  When in doubt, make a note to clarify it for the person choosing your groceries.

Will I get good quality produce and meats with Fry’s grocery pickup?

The Fry’s pickup associates are all trained on how to pick good produce and meats.  If you aren’t satisfied with what they choose, you can refuse the item right away (if you see it) or return the item at a later time.  There’s also a number to call if you’re ever dissatisfied, 1-800-576-4377.

What notes can you put for Fry’s pickup?

I’m guessing they have some good laughs in the break room over special requests, but I’d say put whatever note you want, though you are limited on space.

I put that I only wanted firm grapes and to skip them if they weren’t.  If you want your meat or cheese sliced a certain way, let them know.  If you’re unsure if something is counted by the pound or each, clarify in the notes.  I’m not sure why, but I couldn’t find the advertised price on a T-Bone value pack, which was in their ad.  I put the single steak in my cart and made a note that I only wanted the $4.77/lb super value pack steaks.  Since I didn’t know the size, I just gave them an approximate amount I wanted to spend.  They are very well trained and accommodating for special requests.

What if I order items that are out of stock for Fry’s pickup?

You can either choose a default setting to allow substitutions on all of your items or not allow substitutions.  After that, you can go into each item and change your preference by checking or unchecking a box.  If you need to make a special note about what you will and won’t accept, you can also do that for each item.

They have started texting when substitutions a needed, so you can either accept or decline them before you get there.  If you don’t reply, everything will remain as they stated, but you can always discuss it during pickup.

During pickup, they will talk to you and go over any substitutions they’ve made.  You will also see it listed on a printout they give you.  You are able to decline the item(s), and they will take it back and refund your money right away.  Or, you can return it at a later date if you’re in a hurry.

Below, I will copy the information from their website regarding specifics on substitutions.  You could come out ahead if they choose a larger product for you!

If a substitution is necessary, we’ll follow the steps below to fill your order as best we can. Here’s how it works:

• First, if the same type of out-of-stock item is available in a larger quantity, your order will be upgraded to the larger item.
• If a larger quantity is not available, but the same brand and item is available in a different package (for example, boxed sugar instead of bagged sugar), that item will be substituted.
• If the same brand is not available, the same type of item from a different brand may be substituted.
• Any special dietary items (gluten-free, sugar-free, lactose-free, vegan) will always be substituted with items that meet the same dietary requirements.

Do you earn Fuel Points with a Fry’s pickup order?

Yes, you earn Fuel Points in the exact same way you would if you shop in the store.  If you have a digital coupon loaded for bonus fuel points, you’ll earn those as well.

Can you order alcohol for Fry’s pickup?

Yes, you can order alcohol as long as someone of legal age, with ID, is there to pick it up.

 

Can you get a prescription using Fry’s (Kroger) pickup?

Their website says you are not able to get prescriptions at this time, but that they are working on adding this feature.

Go Beyond! with Bargain Believer

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We link right to the digital coupons you need, so you can make it as easy as clicking for the best deals or you can print or clip some coupons from Sunday papers, to save even more.  We have hearts by our favorite deals, so you know when to stock up.  We make it simple!  Check out the current pricing and details here.

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Summary & Review of Fry’s (Kroger) Grocery Pickup

Overall, I’m extremely pleased with my personal experience and what I’ve heard from other people.  I even got a free bottle of water and clementine, the first time I went.  Little things make me happy!  And, they were so efficient and remained friendly when I asked them all kinds of questions.

The accuracy and customer service I received for small problems that were encountered left me a very satisfied customer.  (I had a coupon for a trio of free items, that didn’t trigger because they were out of one product.  They noticed and manually took off the value of the other two items.)

They seem to have a good system in place for substitutions and are willing to be flexible if it’s not what you want, in the end.  You can even come out ahead with a bigger size.  That’s a generous policy!  The key is to communicate with them when placing your order (in written comments), on the phone before they bring out your order if they mention a discrepancy in what they could get you, (better so they can fix it without going in and out), or talk to them when they bring you your order.  If that fails, you can call their customer service, 1-800-576-4377.

I’m more of a sale shopper than a weekly list gal.  I mostly what’s on sale, but if you keep a running list, it would be so easy to just keep throwing things in your online cart and check out when you’re ready to schedule a pickup.  Plus, they keep a list of your favorites.

Getting your first three orders free is a definite incentive to give it a try.  Beyond that, you’ll have to decide if it’s worth the $4.95 for each pickup.  I’m cheap.  You know that.  Usually, it won’t be worth $4.95 to me, especially since I know my way around the store and can run in and out pretty quickly.  BUT … my kids are teens, so I don’t have to drag them with me anymore.  And, I’m one of those strange people who likes to wander around and look for clearance deals and other deals I may have missed, from time to time.  Additionally, I’m kind of an old dog that doesn’t always like new tricks.  :)

I know they will still lure me in beyond my three trips, when they offer great digital coupon incentives like additional $$ off or free products.  Look for those!  If I feel the items they’re giving me are worth about the same or more than $4.95, this old dog will start clicking and happily skip the clearance walk.  I’m closer to a true cheapskate than an old dog.  Or, when life gets extra busy I will probably be happy to hand over an extra $4.95.

If the time you’ll spend in the store (minus what you would spend online ordering) is worth more than $4.95 to you, this is definitely the way to go!  I think you’ll be happy with the results.  And, if you’re not, they’re willing to work with you to make it right.  I’m totally impressed … and still cheap, even though the value is really amazing.

I’m a tough customer, though I really think this is perfect for so many people … like maybe everyone but me.  What do you think?

All opinions are my own.  I was not compensated for doing this post.
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