Looking to make some extra money? Becoming an Instacart shopper might be the perfect side hustle for you. An Instacart shopper make moneyby buying groceries at local stores and delivering them directly to customers. With its flexible hours and earning potential, Instacart has become a popular choice for individuals looking to boost their income.

Let's get to know how Instacart works, the requirements to become a shopper, the potential earnings, and some tips to maximize your income as an Instacart shopper.

What Is Instacart And How Does It Work?

Instacart is a grocery delivery service that partners with local stores to provide customers with a convenient way to order groceries and have them delivered directly to their doorstep. Instacart shoppers play a vital role in the service by purchasing groceries from the designated stores and delivering them to customers' homes.

The process begins when a customer places an order through the Instacart app or website. The order is then assigned to an available Instacart shopper in the area. The shopper receives a notification through the Instacart Shopper app, providing details of the order, including the items, delivery address, and any special instructions from the customer.

The shopper visits the partnered store and uses the app to navigate the aisles and locate the requested items. They carefully choose the products, ensuring quality and freshness. Once the shopping is complete, the shopper proceeds to the checkout, either using an Instacart payment card provided by the company or their personal funds.

After the groceries are paid for, the shopper carefully packs them to ensure they remain fresh during transportation. They then deliver the groceries to the customer's specified address, providing friendly and professional service. Throughout the process, effective communication between the shopper and the customer is essential to address any questions or concerns.

Instacart offers two types of shoppers: full-service shoppers and in-store shoppers. Full-service shoppers handle both shopping and delivery, while in-store shoppers focus solely on shopping. Full-service shoppers have the flexibility to work when they want and can earn additional income through tips from customers.

How Does Being A Shopper For Instacart Work?

If you choose to become an Instacart shopper, you have the opportunity to work as a full-service shopper or an in-store shopper.

Full-Service Shoppers

Full-service shoppers are independent contractors who handle the entire process of shopping and delivering groceries. They have the flexibility to choose their own working hours, making it an ideal side hustle for those seeking a flexible schedule.

As a full-service shopper, you receive order notifications through the Instacart Shopper app, which allows you to set your availability and accept orders that fit your schedule. Once you accept an order, you visit the designated store, shop for the items on the customer's list, pay for the groceries, and deliver them to the customer's address.

In-Store Shoppers

In-store shoppers are part-time employees of Instacart. Their primary responsibility is to handle the shopping aspect of the process. They receive a fixed hourly wage and work assigned shifts in partnered stores.

In-store shoppers receive notifications of available shifts through the Instacart Shopper app. During their shift, they visit the store, use the app to navigate and locate the requested items, and prepare the order for handoff to a delivery driver or customer pickup.

Both full-service and in-store shoppers play important roles in ensuring a seamless shopping experience for Instacart customers.

Who Can Be An Instacart Shopper?

Instacart offers opportunities for individuals who are looking for a side hustle and want to earn extra money. The requirements for becoming an Instacart shopper are straightforward:

• Age - You must be at least 18 years old to work as an Instacart shopper. In some states, if you want to deliver alcohol, which can result in larger tips, you may need to be at least 21.
• Physical Ability -As an Instacart shopper, you will be handling groceries, which may involve lifting items weighing 30 pounds or more. Having the physical ability to carry out these tasks comfortably is important.
• Smartphone -You will need a smartphone to access the Instacart Shopper app, which is essential for receiving order notifications, communicating with customers, and accessing important information about the orders.
• Background Check -Instacart requires all shoppers to pass a background check. The background check process typically takes around 10 businessdays, but the timeline may vary depending on your location.
• Bank Account -A checking account is necessary to receive your earnings through direct deposit. Instacart issues weekly paychecks to shoppers.

In addition to these general requirements, full-service shoppers have additional criteria:

• Driver's License and Car -Full-service shoppers must have a valid driver's license and access to a car. The car should meet the state's insurance requirements.
• Insulated Bags -Full-service shoppers are required to have insulated bags or hard coolers to ensure the freshness of the groceries during transportation. Instacart sells preapproved bags through the Shopper app.

By meeting these requirements, you can become an Instacart shopper and start earning money through the platform.

How Much Does Instacart Pay?

The payment structure for Instacart shoppers varies depending on the type of shopper and various factors such as order size, distance traveled, and time of day.

Full-Service Shoppers

Full-service shoppers earn money per order, and the payment amount can vary based on several factors. The Instacart app provides an estimate of potential earnings for each order, taking into account the number of items, type of items, driving distance, and effort involved in shopping and delivering.

Instacart guarantees that full-service shoppers will earn at least $5 for each delivery-only batch and $7 to $10 for each full-service (shop, load, and deliver) batch. However, the actual pay per batch can be higher based on factors such as order size, trip distance, and customer demand. Full-service shoppers also have the opportunity to receive tips on top of their batch pay, which can significantly increase their earnings.

Earning potential tends to be higher during peak demand periods, such as weekends and popular eventslike the Super Bowl. By strategically selecting orders and providing excellent service, full-service shoppers can maximize their income.

In-Store Shoppers

In-store shoppers receive a fixed hourly wage. The exact hourly wage may vary based on factors such as location and experience. In-store shoppers work assigned shifts and can work up to 29 hours per week.

It's important to note that as a full-service shopper, you are classified as an independent contractor. Therefore, Instacart does not withhold taxes from your earnings, and you may be responsible for making estimated quarterly tax payments.

How To Make More Money With Instacart

If you're looking to maximize your earnings as an Instacart shopper, here are some tips to consider:

• Be Strategic with Your Availability -Identify high-demand periods, such as weekends, holidays, and peak shopping hours, and make yourself available during those times to take advantage of increased customer demand.
• Deliver Excellent Customer Service- Providing exceptional service, including prompt and professional delivery, accurate order picking, and clear communication with customers, can lead to higher customer ratings and increased tips.
• Optimize Order Selection -Review the details of each available order before accepting it. Consider factors such as store location, number of items, and estimated payment to ensure that the order aligns with your goals and earning potential.
• Efficient Shopping -Familiarize yourself with the layout of partner stores to speed up the shopping process. Additionally, organize your shopping list and utilize the Instacart Shopper app's features to streamline your workflow.
• Build Customer Relationships -Establish rapport with customers by maintaining clear communication, offering substitutions when needed, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Satisfied customers are more likely to leave positive ratings and generous tips.

Remember, the key to making more money with Instacart is to provide excellent service, strategically select orders, and optimize your efficiency as a shopper.

How To Become A Shopper For Instacart

To become an Instacart shopper, follow these steps:

• Download the Shopper App -Visit the app store on your smartphone and search for the Instacart Shopper app. Download and install the app.
• Provide Basic Information -Launch the app and provide the required information, such as your name, location, and contact details. You will also need to grant permission for a background check.
• In-Person Orientation (In-Store Shoppers Only) -If you are applying as an in-store shopper, you may need to attend an in-person orientation. Choose a session in the app and follow the instructions provided.
• Complete the Paperwork -As a full-service shopper, you'll need to sign a contractor agreement and a W-9 tax form. In-store shoppers become Instacart employees and will need to sign an offer letter and a W-4 tax form.
• Register Instacart Payment Card -Instacart will provide you with a preloaded payment card to use for checking out customer orders. Register the payment card in the app.
• Start Taking Instacart Jobs -Once you have completed the onboarding process, you can start accepting available shifts or orders based on your role as a full-service or in-store shopper.

Where To Work For Instacart

Instacart operates in cities across all 50 states, serving thousands of communities, both large and small. To check if there are full-service or in-store shopper openings in your area, download the Instacart Shopper app and enter your ZIP code. The app will provide information on available opportunities in your region.

It's important to note that the availability of in-store shopper positions may vary based on the demand in specific areas.

Tips For Making More Money With Your Side Hustle

To increase your earning potential as an Instacart shopper, consider the following tips:

• Plan Efficient Routes -When delivering multiple orders, plan your routes in a way that minimizes driving time and maximizes efficiency. This can help you complete more orders within a shorter period.
• Maintain a High Customer Rating -Strive to provide excellent service and maintain a high customer rating. Positive ratings can lead to more order offers and higher tips.
• Stay Updated on Promotions -Keep an eye on Instacart's promotions and bonuses. The company occasionally offers incentives, such as guaranteed earnings for completing a certain number of batches within a specified time frame.
• Communicate with Customers -Stay in touch with customers throughout the shopping and delivery process. Promptly communicate any item substitutions or issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Be Responsive -Respond to order offers and customer inquiries in a timely manner. Being responsive can lead to better ratings, more tips, and repeat business.

Implementing these strategies can help you maximize your earnings and make the most out of your Instacart side hustle.

How To Make $10,000 In 30 Days On Instacart

Does Instacart Have Bonuses For Shoppers?

Instacart periodically offers bonuses and incentives to shoppers in specific regions. These bonuses are designed to motivate and reward shoppers for their hard work. For example, in some areas, Instacart may offer guaranteed earnings for completing a certain number of batches within a specific timeframe.

To stay updated on the available bonuses and incentives, check the Shopper app regularly, as it will provide information on any ongoing promotions in your region.

How To Know If Instacart Is The Right Side Hustle For You

Instacart can be a rewarding side hustle for individuals looking to earn extra money. However, it's important to consider a few factors to determine if it's the right fit for you:

• Flexibility -Instacart offers flexible working hours, allowing you to choose when and how often you work. Assess whether the flexibility aligns with your availability and other commitments.
• Physical Ability -As an Instacart shopper, you may need to lift and carry heavy grocery items. Evaluate your physical capabilities to ensure you can comfortably handle the tasks involved.
• Driving and Transportation -Full-service shoppers require access to a reliable vehicle and must meet the state's insurance requirements. Consider whether you have access to a car and are comfortable with driving for deliveries.
• Customer Service Skills -Providing excellent customer service is crucial in maximizing your earnings. Assess your communication skills and ability to handle customer inquiries and requests effectively.
• Market Demand -Research the demand for Instacart services in your area. Higher demand can result in more available orders and potential earnings.

By considering these factors, you can determine if Instacart aligns with your personal preferences, availability, and goals.

Instacart Shopper Pay - What's Average?

The average pay for Instacart shoppers can vary depending on several factors, including the region, customer demand, and individual performance. While in-store shoppers receive a fixed hourly wage, full-service shoppers have the opportunity to earn more per order and receive tips.

Instacart guarantees that full-service shoppers will earn at least $5 for each delivery-only batch and $7 to $10 for each full-service batch. However, the actual pay can be higher based on factors such as order size, distance traveled, and customer tips.

To maximize your earnings as an Instacart shopper, it's essential to select orders strategically, provide exceptional service, and take advantage of peak demand periods.

People Also Ask

What Is Heavy Pay On Instacart?

To qualify for heavy pay, the combined weight of the heavy items in a batch must be 50 lbs or more, and each item contributing to the total weight must weigh 8 lbs or more. You can identify heavy pay batches through the "heavy pay" tag on the batch evaluation screen.

Do Instacart Shoppers Get Paid More Than Tips?

Instacart shoppers keep 100% of the tips they receive. In addition to tips, the most efficient Instacart shoppers have the potential to earn up to $45 per hour. Our hourly estimate takes into account various factors, including tips, mileage deductions, and more, providing a comprehensive view of an Instacart shopper's pay rate.

Does Instacart Pay For Gas?

Instacart has partnered with GetUpside, a perks partner that offers cashback on gas and other useful resources. As an Instacart shopper, you can access GetUpside and benefit from their services. Download the GetUpside app to earn at least $0.35 back per gallon for your first two fill-ups and to discover ongoing offers available in your area.

Conclusion

If you're searching for a flexible and profitable side hustle, look no further than becoming an Instacart shopper. An Instacart shopper makes money by shopping for groceries and delivering them to customers in your area.

The earning potential is substantial, with guaranteed payments for each batch and the possibility of earning tips on top of that. By strategically selecting orders, providing excellent customer service, and taking advantage of peak demand periods, you can maximize your income as an Instacart shopper. So why wait? Join the Instacart community and start making money today!