Can You Get Trader Joe‘s Delivered in 2024? Here Are Your Best Options
With over 530 stores across America, Trader Joe‘s has one of the most devoted followings of any grocery store today. According to YouGov‘s 2022 brand rankings, Trader Joe‘s is the #2 most popular grocery retailer. However, unlike leading competitors Walmart and Kroger, Trader Joe‘s still does not offer any delivery or online ordering options as of 2023.
Why Doesn‘t Trader Joe‘s Offer Delivery?
Without an official reason stated, experts can only speculate why TJ’s lacks these convenient services other grocers have adopted. According to grocery industry consultants like David Livingston of DJL Research, reasons may include:
Prioritizing Top-Notch In-Store Experiences: Trader Joe’s dedicates more resources into perfecting décor, samples, and exceptional employees. In 2021, shoppers ranked Trader Joe‘s #1 for best grocery retail experience.
Avoiding Operational Complexities: Delivery and digital pick up would require major supply chain overhaul that doesn’t suit TJ’s decentralize structure with no large warehouses.
Not Cannibalizing Sales: Trader Joe’s small format neighborhood stores already capture convenience shoppers. Delivery could undermine frequent in-person trips.
While fans eagerly await any hints of expanded online services, Trader Joe’s gives no indication of changing course for now.
Getting Your TJ‘s Favorites Delivered
Just because you can’t order directly from TraderJoe.com doesn’t mean residents across the U.S can’t enjoy grocery delivery. Based on delivery fees, item availability, reliability, and more, here is how 3 alternatives stack up:
| Service | Description | Avg. Delivery Fee | Driver Tipping? | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instacart | Partners with local stores that sell some TJ‘s products | $3.99+ | Optional 10%+ tip | Best variety; higher costs |
| Shipt | Works with select retailers like Meijer and Safeway | $7/month or $99/yr membership | Encouraged tipping | Lower availability; membership required |
| Dumpling | Personal shoppers who hand pick items at your store requests | $5.00 per order | Set own tip amount | Reliable; higher touch service |
*Analysis based on Denver, CO delivery data. Fees and tipping amounts can vary by location.
Choosing What‘s Right For You
With multiple options now available, which grocery delivery service is best for you depends on your priorities:
Convenience: Services like Instacart allow you to compare prices across stores to find hard-to-find products. Its shopper network also makes speedy deliveries of an hour or less.
Familiar Faces: With Dumpling, you can select a personal neighborhood shopper you connect with. Great for tailored selections and building a rapport over time.
Affordability: An annual Shipt membership equals $16/month for unlimited orders. Compared to others with small order and tips, it can cost less over a year.
While not as seamless as buying directly from TJ’s own website, these alternatives help loyal fans get their favorites delivered affordably.
The Bottom Line
Trader Joe’s traditional approach of focusing resources into store ambiance and customer experience rather than e-commerce offerings sets them apart. But for shoppers still seeking delivery, services like Instacart and Dumpling successfully bridge the gap. Convenience does come at a small premium, but the power to enjoy Trader Joe’s from your doorstep makes it worthwhile.
