My personal strategy for saving AND always reaching the free delivery threshold.

The food world is shifting, and ordering groceries online is becoming increasingly more commonplace. Yup. You’re part of the movement.

It’s a food revolution filled with shopping on your phone anywhere and anytime, more information and choices, the ability to connect with farms, convenient delivery options… and the dreaded delivery fees.

Order minimums, fees, free delivery thresholds… the world of delivery terms can get kind of complicated. But, there’s one thing I know - I really struggle when confronted with a delivery fee.

Now, in my rational mind I know that there’s no such thing as “free” delivery. I mean, I have to pay for it one way or another, right? If it’s not added to my order, it’s definitely included in the product price. Regardless, I just can’t do it. I just can’t pay a delivery fee. I’ll do everything I can to avoid it.

I have a system that not only saves me money on groceries but also eliminates the delivery fee. It’s pretty simple. I order my pantry staples that can be stored long term in bulk on a rotating basis.

So, this week I might order a 10-pack of butter, the next week 10lb of ground beef, then 6 dozen eggs, then a 5lb block of cheese, and on and on. You get the point. 

By buying in bulk, I get a discount. This is because it’s easier for the farm to pick and pack 10lb of butter in one order than 1lb of butter in 10 orders.

Then, along with that one bulk item I include my regular weekly order of refrigerator perishables like milk, yogurt, kefir, and produce. 

And of course I like to bring out the joy of cooking and eating in my house. So I always mix it up with some culinary delights like London broil, camembert cheese, sour cream, or some kefir soda to make or accompany my family's favorite dishes. And, hey, everyone should be able to enjoy an organic chocolate bar every so often.

By doing this I’m not only saving, but I’m also meeting that order minimum for free delivery. No fees for me!

You might be thinking, but I don’t have enough space. That can be a challenge. But, with some clever planning, it’s absolutely possible, even in a small kitchen like mine. 

If you’d like to get started with bulk ordering and need some guidance, our Shelf Life Guide might be useful for you.

Do you always meet the order minimum for free delivery? Do you have any personal shopping strategies?

I’d love to hear from you. Contact us or click the button above to comment on the blog (no account required).

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PS: If you’re on my same wavelength, here’s a big list of ideas for bulk pantry items that are great for long term storage:

Dairy & Eggs

• Pastured Eggs
• A2 Butter
• A2 Cheese

Meat

• Ground Beef
• Steaks
• ​Roasts
• Pork Chops
• Bacon (when available)
• Whole Chickens
• Bone Broth
• Beef Stix

Produce

• Onions
• Carrots
• Potatoes

Dry Goods

• Flour
• Honey
• Maple Syrup
• Chocolate