How does the tool calculate the cheapest store?

The `compare_baskets` tool calculates the total cost for each store by summing item prices (adjusted for package size) and adding the specific travel cost for that location.

What happens if an item is out of stock?

The engine uses `evaluate_substitution` to check if a valid replacement is available. A store is only considered a valid option if it can fulfill 100% of your list through direct matches or valid substitutions.

Does it account for travel costs?

Yes, travel costs are a fixed overhead included in the total cost calculation for every store to ensure you find the true cheapest option.

Grocery Store Basket Comparator MCP Connector for Claude

A+

Find the cheapest way to complete your grocery shopping list.

4 tools Official Updated Oct 1, 2026 Official Vinkius Partner

More Details Connect to Claude

This MCP server acts as a decision-support engine for grocery shopping. It evaluates the total cost of completing a shopping list across different stores by calculating unit prices, travel expenses, and available discounts. Use compare_baskets to find the most economical store, calculate_store_subtotal for specific store costs, evaluate_substitution to check item replacements, or get_store_inventory_summary to see how well a store matches your needs.

grocerycomparisonsavingsbudgetshopping-list

Connect to Claude

Subscribe on Vinkius, then add this connector to Claude.ai or Claude Code.

① Claude.ai (web app)

Go to Settings → Connectors → Add custom connector
Paste the MCP endpoint URL below

https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_CWIqeosOBe0KAcKV4CXB0inFIIiTS3H5RiFVSH98/mcp

② Claude Code (terminal)

claude mcp add --transport http grocery-store-basket-comparator https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_CWIqeosOBe0KAcKV4CXB0inFIIiTS3H5RiFVSH98/mcp

③ Claude Desktop

Add to claude_desktop_config.json:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "grocery-store-basket-comparator": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_CWIqeosOBe0KAcKV4CXB0inFIIiTS3H5RiFVSH98/mcp"
    }
  }
}

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