which delivery company did you go with (there are two, I believe)

If you are ordering groceries from Publix, you will have those items shipped via Instacart. It's a matter of creating an account, selecting your items, then choosing from the available delivery dates. Curbside pick-up is not an option in The Villages, only delivery.

The people referring to downloading the App and/or ordering online through Publix, are referring to ordering prepared foods; as well as certain deli items such as subs, meats, cheeses, platters, etc. For example, you cannot order a bag of potatoes, a loaf of bread, tomatoes, etc.,

Hope this helps.

Was there a charge for delivery?

As far as I can see yes.
You choose which Publix.
I went with Colony and was surprised to get everything.

You download the Publix app.

Since these people are putting their health at risk so you don't have put yours at risk, they should be very well tipped. When you order, there are tip options. I go for 20%. I've used it twice with no problems. The service charge is a few dollars. I don't know how it's determined, but well worth it to me.

I noticed the same thing! It stands to reason that they use the 24 computerized clock. Once it clicks last midnight, the computer lets you book an available time. Now the secrets out!

Amen to that! We have used them four times and they have been very professional. Shopper/delivery person checks each time you are faced with finding what you want is not available (you can indicate what substitutes you approve of, when you are filling out the online list) and notifies you when they are leaving and when they arrive, they will put bags on porch and you need do nothing, unless you need to provide an id when you get liquor. Very smooth, easy to use and very communicative. (Tip: we bring in from porch in batches, sanitizing each item before putting it away. Takes about a half hour.....out of our busy schedule reading, scanning internet, playing Skipbo or Racko, or watching movies on tv....) HIGHLY recommend.

Cost
 

I have the $9.99/month Instacart Express service (unlimited deliveries) and chose to give the person a 15% tip. I have used it 2 times this month. Once at Sam's and once at Publix. Without the Express there is a $8.99 delivery fee at Sam's and $3.99 at Publix.

This is my Sam's total for 3 items. Including TP ($21.58), Paper towels ($21.58) and Gatorade Zero ($16.18).

Items Subtotal $59.34
Sales Tax $4.15
Tip $8.90
Service Fee $1.13
Total $73.52

At Publix I ordered numerous items. Ranging in price from $1.15 to $15.50 here are the totals.

Items Subtotal $85.90
Sales Tax $1.86
Tip $12.88
Service Fee $4.30
Total $104.94

You have to try just about 30 seconds after the stroke of midnight. New times are posted each morning....that early. Go quickly.