Grocery delivery services like Instacart, Walmart+, and Shipt offer incredible convenience, but they often make it difficult to use traditional coupons. Many shoppers assume that they have to give up their savings in exchange for delivery. This is not true. With a few clever tricks and a better understanding of how these platforms work, you can still apply discounts and coupons to your online orders. These 12 strategies will help you unlock savings without leaving your house.
1. Filter by “Coupons” in the App
Most delivery apps, including Instacart, have a dedicated “Coupons” or “Savings” tab. Before you start shopping, browse this section first. You can “clip” these digital coupons directly to your account with a single tap. They will automatically apply to your cart at checkout. This is the easiest and most direct way to save.
2. Link Your Store Loyalty Card
On platforms like Instacart, you can link your specific store loyalty card (like your Kroger Plus card) to your account. This ensures that you receive the store’s advertised shelf prices and digital deals, rather than the potentially higher markup prices. It also allows you to earn fuel points on your delivery orders.
3. Use Cash-Back Rebate Apps
Apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards now integrate with online grocery accounts. You can link your Walmart or Instacart account directly to Ibotta. When you shop, Ibotta tracks your digital receipt and automatically credits you for any eligible rebates. This allows you to “stack” savings on top of the store’s prices.
4. Look for “Spend X, Save Y” Promos
Delivery apps frequently run their own platform-specific promotions, such as “Spend $35 on Pepsi products, save $5.” These deals are often highlighted on the app’s homepage or at the top of search results. Grouping your purchases to hit these thresholds is a simple way to trigger an instant discount.
5. Use Manufacturer Promo Codes
Sometimes, manufacturers will release promo codes for their specific products on delivery platforms. You can find these codes on the brand’s social media pages or email newsletters. Entering these codes at checkout can deduct a specific amount from your total or give you free delivery.
6. Refer a Friend for Credit
Almost every delivery service has a referral program. If you send a referral link to a friend or family member, you both get a credit when they place their first order. This is essentially a free coupon for your next shop. Sharing your link on social media or in a group chat is an easy way to rack up credits.
7. Shop the “Sales” Tab First
Every digital storefront has a “Sales” or “Weekly Ad” section. Make it a habit to start your shopping trip here. Building your meal plan around the items that are already discounted on the app ensures you are getting the best possible price before you even apply any other coupons.
8. Check for “First Order” Promos
If you have never used a specific service or a specific retailer on a platform (like ordering from CVS on Instacart for the first time), look for “first order” promo codes. These are often very generous, offering free delivery or a significant dollar-off discount to get you to try the service.
9. Use Discounted Gift Cards
You can buy discounted gift cards for Instacart or Walmart from sites like Raise or CardCash. Buying a $100 gift card for $90 instantly saves you 10% on your entire order. This acts like a universal coupon that applies to everything in your cart, including delivery fees and tips.
10. Sign Up for Free Trials
Services like Instacart+ or Walmart+ offer free trials for their premium memberships. These memberships often include free delivery and reduced service fees. Signing up for a trial during a busy month can save you significant money on fees. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you do not want to pay the annual fee.
11. Check Your Email for “We Miss You” Offers
If you haven’t used a service in a while, check your email. Companies will often send “We miss you” promo codes to inactive users to tempt them back. These can be high-value coupons, like “$20 off your next order of $50.” It pays to be an infrequent customer sometimes.
12. Use a Rewards Credit Card
Finally, pay for your order with a credit card that offers high cash back on online grocery purchases. Some cards offer up to 6% back on groceries. This is a final, guaranteed discount that stacks on top of every other coupon and deal you have used.
Digital Savings Mastery
Saving money on grocery delivery requires a different set of skills than clipping paper coupons. It is about mastering the app, leveraging digital rebates, and stacking rewards. By using these tricks, you can enjoy the convenience of delivery without paying a premium price. You can have your groceries brought to your door and still feel like a savvy saver.
Do you use grocery delivery services? What is your favorite way to save money on your online orders? Let us know your hacks!
What to Read Next
9 Label Tricks That Convince You Something Is “Healthy” When It’s Not
10 Retail Psychology Tricks So Subtle You Don’t Even Know They’re Working
6 Packaging Tricks That Make Shoppers Pay More for Less
9 Store Design Tricks That Keep You Walking Longer
These 9 Couponing Tricks Could Get You Kicked Out of a Store
The post 12 Grocery Delivery Tricks That Let You Use Coupons Online appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.
