Every time I scroll through TikTok, Milkrun ads seem to pop up everywhere. Even on my daily bus rides across New Zealand, their promotions are impossible to miss. The promise? No more supermarket trips. Instead, you can simply order everything you need from your phone and have it delivered straight to your door. It sounds like a dream come true, especially for those of us with busy lives. But is Milkrun really the game-changer it claims to be? Let’s dive into this Milkrun review and uncover the truth.
What is Milkrun?
Milkrun was launched in 2021 as an Australian delivery service focused on daily necessities. It quickly gained traction, but like many startups, it faced challenges. In 2023, due to financial difficulties, Milkrun was acquired by Woolworths, the same company that runs Countdown in New Zealand. Now, it operates as a Woolworths brand, aiming to bring convenience to your doorstep.
How Does Milkrun Work?
Step 1: Download the Milkrun App and Register an Account
Getting started with Milkrun is simple. First, you need to download the app from the App Store. Keep in mind that there isn’t a web version, so everything is done through the app. Once installed, you can register using your email and, if you have one, link your Everyday Rewards card—this step is optional but can help you earn rewards.
Step 2: Fill in Your Delivery Address
Next, you’ll need to provide your delivery address. This is crucial as it helps the app locate nearby stores and available delivery times, ensuring your items arrive as quickly as possible.
Step 3: Choose the Food You Want to Buy
Browse through the app and select the items you need. Whether it’s fresh produce, snacks, or household essentials, Milkrun offers a wide variety of options to choose from.
Step 4: Check Out
Once you’ve filled your cart, head to checkout. Here, you’ll confirm your personal information, phone number, and payment details. After that, all you have to do is wait for your groceries to be delivered. You can choose to have them left at your door or receive them in person. Milkrun supports both Apple Pay and credit cards for payment.
Milkrun vs. Woolworths: A Comparison
While Milkrun is now a part of Woolworths, there are some notable differences between shopping on Milkrun and the Woolworths platform.
| Aspect | Milkrun | Woolworths |
| Delivery Policy | Free delivery for the first 3 orders. After that, there will be around $5 NZD delivery fee. | Unlimited delivery for $23 NZD per month, or pay between $9 and $14 per delivery without membership. |
| Product Prices | Prices are generally a bit higher than Woolworths. | Typically lower prices compared to Milkrun. |
| Delivery Speed | Usually delivered within 1 hour. | Requires a reservation; same-day delivery is available but costs more. |
| Everyday Rewards Card | Can be linked for reward points. | Can be used for rewards as well. |
What Time Does Milkrun Close?
Milkrun operates every day, but the closing time can vary depending on your location. Generally, Milkrun closes around 9 PM, but this can change based on local store hours and delivery availability in your area. It’s always best to check the app for the most accurate and up-to-date information on delivery times.
Is Milkrun More Expensive?
Yes, Milkrun is generally more expensive than shopping directly at Woolworths. The convenience of having groceries delivered quickly to your door does come at a price. While it’s perfect for those moments when you need something urgently or don’t have the means to get to a supermarket, you’ll be paying a premium for that convenience. For regular shopping, especially if you have a car and can easily get to a Woolworths store, you might find it more cost-effective to stick to traditional shopping methods.
Advantages of Using Milkrun
Milkrun does come with some appealing benefits:
- Free Delivery for the First 3 Orders: If you’re a new user, you’ll enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, which is a nice perk.
- Convenient for Those Without a Car: If you don’t have access to a car, Milkrun saves you the hassle of getting to and from the supermarket.
- Quick Delivery: With delivery usually within an hour, Milkrun is perfect for those last-minute grocery needs.
- Good Courier Service: The couriers are generally prompt and courteous, enhancing the overall experience.
- No More Carrying Heavy Bags: For those of us who hate lugging heavy grocery bags, Milkrun is a game-changer.
- Perfect for Introverts: If you’re not a fan of social interactions, Milkrun allows you to get your shopping done without ever leaving the house.
Disadvantages of Using Milkrun
However, there are also some drawbacks:
- Higher Prices: Products on Milkrun tend to be more expensive than in-store prices at Woolworths.
- Busy Customer Service: If you run into issues, customer service can be slow to respond, and refunds may take 1 to 3 working days.
My Choice
So, after using Milkrun, what’s my verdict? If I had a car, I’d still prefer going to the supermarket. The experience of choosing my own produce, the slightly lower prices, and the flexibility of in-store shopping are hard to beat. However, without a car, Milkrun becomes a very tempting option, especially for those who value convenience and time-saving above all else.
In the end, whether Milkrun is worth it really depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you need groceries quickly and can afford the slightly higher prices, Milkrun is a solid choice. But if you prefer saving a bit of money and enjoy the in-store shopping experience, you might want to stick with your usual supermarket runs.
