the Price of Grocery Delivery from Local Store

There is a small family-owned grocery store about five miles from my house. It has a wide-range of items, including a small butcher / meat counter and pizza kitchen. Normally, we go there if we have forgotten an item at the larger grocery store of need something quickly (the next nearest store is about 20 miles). We had always seen the sign for delivery (there are two retirement communities located near the store) and thought that they probably catered to the houses close by and not our area and that we would have no use for the service.

In November, neither of us felt well enough to go grocery shopping and only needed a few items. We decided to called the grocery and found that they would indeed deliver to us for a small charge. We gave them our list and they delivered our order within one hour.

The entire charge was $45.00. The grocery items totals $40.00 and the delivery charge was $5.00. We also tipped the driver $5.00. We were able to pay over the phone with my debit card, and the tip was cash.

The quality service was excellent. The woman on the phone who took our order was courteous and efficient. She listened patiently, told us the names of the brands, sizes available, and prices of items that we ordered. The order was delivered within the one hour promised time frame and the driver was also very courteous. All of the items delivered were in excellent condition and we were very pleased with their quality. It was definitely worth the extra five dollars to have the items delivered (I spend more in gas going to and from the normal grocery store).

One negative part of the experience was that because the store is so small, they do not carry all of the items that I would normally buy (or in much smaller sizes). If they had all sizes and varieties, I would probably do all of my shopping there (and even have it delivered some weeks). Another drawback is that we ordered some fresh vegetables and a couple of meat items. While they were very good quality, I generally prefer to pick out my own items.

This is definitely a service that we will use in the future though.

Many grocery stores offer delivery now, but to a limited area. If the larger stores in your area do not deliver to your location, check with smaller markets. There are also some services that will shop for you and deliver. Always check the delivery costs before you order to make sure you are surprised when you get order. And, be sure to check the policy for tipping the driver (not all stores allow this).

Don't hesitate to ask questions about what brands are available, sizes, and prices. Also, be sure to ask if any items are on sale (they are not obligated to tell you). Be sure to ask how long it will take for the delivery as well. Some stores will deliver within an hour for an extra fee, but most do not have such quick delivery times (our local market guarantees everything within an hour). Some stores allow you to order on-line (you can compare prices this way). If possible, take advantage of this option.

See if the delivery option accepts coupons and store savings cards. You may be able to save enough this way to cover the cost of the delivery.