Which Grocery Stores Have Smart Carts? Where to Look

Amazon Fresh uses Dash Carts at participating stores, and select Whole Foods Market locations have introduced them as well; some ShopRite and ALDI stores have also offered smart carts through Instacart’s Caper Cart program. Availability depends on the individual location, so a chain’s name alone does not tell you whether a smart cart will be waiting when you arrive.

Start with the location page or app for the store you plan to visit, then call that store if cart availability is not clear or if using one is important to your trip. Ask whether the carts are available to all shoppers, whether you need a store account or app, and how checkout works before you build your shopping plan around one.

Depending on the system, a smart cart may identify items as you add them, display a running total, or let you complete checkout without unloading everything onto a traditional conveyor belt. Features differ by retailer and location, and you may still need to scan or weigh certain items or follow an on-screen prompt before leaving.

No: a smart cart is designed around shopping and checkout technology, while an electric cart is generally a powered mobility aid for a shopper who needs help moving through the store. If you need a mobility cart, ask about that specifically rather than assuming a store’s advertised smart carts will meet your accessibility needs.

A displayed running total can make it easier to spot when your basket is nearing your limit, but you should still account for taxes, deposits, and any promotions that may appear at checkout. For more ways to plan a satisfying grocery trip around a spending goal, read our Smart Cart, Full Wallet: How to Food Shop on a Budget Without Sacrificing Taste guide; our team recommends bringing a list whether you use a smart cart or a standard one.