Ordering food online through platforms like Grubhub has become extremely convenient. However, mistakes can happen and sometimes you may need to cancel or reverse an order after it has already been placed. Here is a detailed guide on how to cancel and reverse orders on Grubhub, along with tips to prevent having to do this in the first place.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Grubhub Platform
Grubhub is a leading online food ordering and delivery marketplace that connects diners with local restaurants. Key things to know:
- Grubhub provides a platform for diners to easily discover and order takeout or delivery from restaurants in their area.
- It partners with over 300,000 restaurants across 4,000 US cities.
- Diners can order directly from the Grubhub website or mobile app.
- Grubhub delivery drivers will pick up and deliver the food orders. Drivers are independent contractors, not Grubhub employees.
For restaurants, Grubhub provides technology to receive and manage online orders, process payments, update menus, set hours of operation and more through its Grubhub for Restaurants portal.
How to Cancel a Submitted Grubhub Order
If you need to cancel a Grubhub order after placing it, follow these steps:
1. Open the Grubhub App and Select Your Order
- Open the Grubhub app on your phone and tap on “Orders” at the bottom.
- Find the order you want to cancel and select it to open the order details.
2. Tap “Help” and Choose “Cancel Order”
- At the top right, tap the “Help” button.
- From the menu, choose the “Cancel order” option.
3. Pick a Cancellation Reason
- You will need to pick from a list of reasons for cancelling your order, such as changed your mind, ordered incorrectly, etc.
- Select an appropriate cancellation reason.
4. Chat with a Grubhub Agent
- After picking a cancellation reason, you will enter a live chat with a Grubhub customer support agent.
- Explain your situation and why you need to cancel your order.
The Grubhub agent will review and try to cancel your order, but there is no guarantee. If the restaurant has already prepared and sent out your food for delivery, the order cannot be cancelled.
Getting a Refund After Cancelling an Order
Simply cancelling the order does not entitle you to an automatic refund. Here are some tips for getting your money back:
- Be polite but firm when chatting with the Grubhub agent, and clearly request a refund.
- If the cancellation reason warrants it, the agent may process a refund for you directly.
- If the agent cannot provide a refund, call Grubhub customer support at 877-585-7878 to request one. Explain in detail why you cancelled and ask them to refund your payment.
How Restaurants Can Cancel or Reverse Grubhub Orders
For restaurants using the Grubhub for Restaurants platform, you also have the ability to cancel or modify submitted food orders. Here is how:
Log in to Your Grubhub for Restaurants Account
First, access the Grubhub for Restaurants portal by logging in to your restaurant’s account at restaurant.grubhub.com.
Find the Order and Select “Cancel”
Under the “Orders” section, find the specific order you want to cancel or modify. Click on “Cancel” next to the order.
Choose Reason for Cancellation/Modification
When cancelling an entire order, you will need to select a reason like incorrect order details, out of stock menu items, order submitted after closing hours etc.
If modifying, choose options to remove items, add items, or edit quantities and options for existing items.
Chat with Customer If Needed
Based on the type of change, Grubhub may connect you with the customer directly to confirm the updates or cancellation reason. Provide them clear details on the issues.
Submit Final Adjustments/Cancellations
After making all updates or confirming cancellation, submit your changes. The order details will automatically update and the customer will be notified.
Prevent Needing to Cancel Grubhub Orders
Cancelling food orders can negatively impact operations for both restaurants and delivery drivers. Here are some tips to prevent having to do this:
For Diners
- Carefully review your cart and order details before submitting.
- Make sure your delivery address is correct.
- Order at least 30-45 minutes before the restaurant’s closing time.
For Restaurants
- Keep your menus and hours updated in the Grubhub for Restaurants portal.
- Temporarily pause online orders if you get too busy.
- Add buffer times for last order acceptance before closing hours.
Key Takeaways
- You can cancel Grubhub orders easily through the mobile app, but refunds are not guaranteed.
- Restaurants also have the ability to cancel or modify orders through their Grubhub for Restaurants account.
- Be polite and clearly communicate cancellation reasons to Grubhub agents and customers.
- Take measures to avoid having to cancel orders which can impact operations and service.
Carefully reviewing order details before checkout and keeping information updated can prevent most situations requiring cancellations. But when issues do come up, at least you’ll know how to cancel or reverse orders placed through Grubhub.