How to Add Items to an Instacart Order: A Shopper’s Guide to Mid-Order Modifications

So, you’re cruising along, crafting the perfect Instacart order for tonight’s dinner or this week’s grocery haul, and then bam – you realize you’ve forgotten something crucial. Fear not, fellow foodies and forgetful shoppers! Adding items to an Instacart order after it’s been placed is absolutely possible, and often quite simple. Let’s dive into exactly how to accomplish this feat, ensuring your pantry remains well-stocked and your culinary dreams stay on track.

The process to add items to your Instacart order depends on its current status. If the shopper hasn’t started shopping yet, you can easily modify the order directly through the Instacart app or website. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Open the Instacart App or Website: Log in to your Instacart account.
2. Navigate to “Your Orders”: Find your current order under the “Your Orders” section.
3. Select “View Order Details”: This will open a detailed view of your order.
4. Look for an “Add Items” or “Edit Order” Button: The exact wording might vary slightly, but it will be prominently displayed if your order is still editable.
5. Browse and Add Items: Use the search bar or browse categories to find the items you want to add. Simply tap the “+” button to add them to your cart.
6. Review and Confirm Changes: Double-check your updated order and confirm any changes. Be aware that adding items may affect your total cost.

If your shopper has already started shopping, the process is slightly different. You’ll need to communicate directly with your shopper through the Instacart app.

1. Open the Instacart App: Access your order details as described above.
2. Locate the “Chat with Shopper” Feature: This is usually a clearly labeled button or icon within your order details.
3. Message Your Shopper: Politely request that they add the desired item(s) to your order. Be specific about the product name, brand, and quantity.
4. Confirm Availability and Price: Your shopper will confirm whether the item is available and provide you with the price.
5. Approve the Addition: You’ll typically need to approve the addition within the app. This often involves a simple “Approve” or “Add” button.

Keep in mind that adding items while your shopper is already working on your order is subject to their availability and the store’s stock. Being clear and communicative with your shopper is key to a successful addition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Adding Items to Instacart Orders

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of adding items to your Instacart orders, along with some insider tips to make your experience smoother.

1. What happens if my shopper can’t find the item I want to add?

Your shopper will usually communicate with you through the app to suggest a replacement or offer a refund for the unavailable item. Be prepared to respond quickly to their messages so they can continue shopping efficiently. Consider adding alternative choices in your initial request to expedite the process.

2. Is there a limit to how many items I can add to my order?

Instacart doesn’t typically have a hard limit on the number of items you can add. However, adding a significantly large number of items after your order has been placed can potentially delay the shopping and delivery process. It’s always best to plan your order as comprehensively as possible upfront.

3. Will adding items affect my delivery time?

Yes, adding items, especially if your shopper has already started shopping, can potentially affect your delivery time. The shopper needs to locate, select, and check out the additional items, which naturally adds to the overall time. However, a good shopper will strive to minimize any delays.

4. Can I add items after my shopper has checked out?

Unfortunately, no. Once your shopper has completed the checkout process, you can no longer add items to that specific order. You would need to place a separate order for any additional items.

5. How do I handle adding age-restricted items like alcohol?

If you’re adding age-restricted items like alcohol, be prepared to show your valid government-issued ID to your shopper upon delivery. The shopper is required to verify your age before handing over these items.

6. What if I accidentally added the wrong item – can I remove it?

Yes, you can remove items from your order using the same “Edit Order” or “View Order Details” screen as long as your shopper hasn’t started shopping yet. If they have, communicate with them directly to request the item’s removal. They can usually remove it before checkout.

7. Will adding items change my delivery fee or service fee?

Adding items may affect your delivery fee or service fee if it significantly increases the total order value. Instacart’s fee structure can vary, so it’s best to review the updated charges after adding items. Keep in mind that Instacart service fees may vary based on several factors such as location and demand.

8. What if my shopper doesn’t respond to my request to add items?

While rare, it’s possible your shopper may be busy or have connectivity issues. If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 15-20 minutes), you can contact Instacart customer support through the app for assistance.

9. Can I add items that are not available in the store shown on Instacart?

No. Instacart only allows you to add items that are available in the selected store. If you need items from a different store, you’ll need to place a separate order.

10. What if I want to add an item that requires weighing, like produce?

When adding items like produce, simply specify the desired quantity or weight (e.g., “2 apples” or “1 pound of grapes”). The shopper will then weigh the item and adjust the price accordingly. They may send you a picture of the produce if there are options for you to choose the specific one to buy.

11. Are there any situations where I absolutely cannot add items to my order?

Yes. As mentioned before, once the shopper has checked out, you cannot add any further items. Also, if you are using a limited-time promotional code or have specific dietary restrictions that would be violated by adding a new item, it might be impossible. Finally, some stores may not allow additions once the shopper has begun.

12. What’s the best strategy for ensuring I get all the items I need on my Instacart order?

The best strategy is always careful planning. Before placing your order, take the time to thoroughly review your pantry and fridge. Create a detailed shopping list, and double-check it against the Instacart app to ensure you haven’t missed anything. Also, be prepared to communicate clearly and promptly with your shopper. A little preparation can save you time, money, and potential frustration. And consider using Instacart lists feature to create shopping lists to avoid repeat shopping.

By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can confidently add items to your Instacart order and enjoy a seamless and stress-free grocery shopping experience. Happy shopping!