How to Deliver Instacart Orders: A Shopper’s Handbook

Delivering Instacart orders is essentially about being a reliable and efficient personal shopper and delivery driver. You use the Instacart Shopper app to accept orders, navigate to stores, meticulously select items according to customer requests (and handle substitutions gracefully when necessary), check out, and then deliver the groceries right to their doorstep. It’s a gig that demands organization, communication skills, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Becoming an Instacart Shopper: The First Mile

Before you can even think about delivering, you need to become an Instacart shopper. This involves a straightforward, yet crucial, process:

• Meeting the Basic Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old, have access to a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and car insurance. A smartphone (iPhone 6s or newer, or Android 5.0 or newer) is also essential for using the Instacart Shopper app.
• Applying Online: Visit the Instacart website and fill out the online application. This includes providing personal information, vehicle details, and agreeing to a background check.
• Passing the Background Check: Instacart conducts a background check to ensure shopper safety and customer trust. This usually includes a criminal history check and a driving record review.
• Setting Up Payment: You’ll need to link a bank account to receive payments for completed deliveries.
• Completing the Onboarding Process: Once approved, you’ll receive access to the Instacart Shopper app and be required to complete an onboarding process that familiarizes you with the app’s features, best practices, and Instacart’s policies.

Mastering the Instacart Shopper App: Your Command Center

The Instacart Shopper app is your control panel for everything. Understanding its functionalities is critical for success.

Navigating the App Interface

Familiarize yourself with the app’s main sections:

• Availability: This section allows you to set your availability for accepting batches. It’s crucial for managing your working hours.
• Batches: This is where you’ll find available orders (batches) in your area. Each batch displays estimated pay, the number of items and stores involved, and the delivery distance.
• Shopping: This section guides you through the shopping process. It provides a list of items, aisle locations, and options for communicating with the customer.
• Checkout: After gathering all items, use this section to scan items, apply coupons (if available), and pay using the Instacart payment card.
• Delivery: This section provides directions to the customer’s location. It also includes options for contacting the customer and marking the order as delivered.
• Earnings: Track your earnings, view payment details, and access your payment history in this section.

Accepting Batches Strategically

Learning to choose the right batches is key to maximizing your earnings. Consider factors such as:

• Estimated Pay: Evaluate whether the pay is worth the time and effort required.
• Number of Items: Larger orders generally take longer to shop for.
• Store Location: Consider the distance to the store and potential traffic.
• Delivery Distance: Factor in the time and fuel costs associated with the delivery distance.
• Tip Potential: Look for batches with a higher base pay or a history of good tips from the customer (though this isn’t always visible).

The Shopping Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you accept a batch, the real work begins:

1. Navigate to the Store: Use the app to get directions to the assigned store.
2. Begin Shopping: Once inside the store, tap “Start Shopping” in the app.
3. Locate Items: The app displays a list of items with aisle locations. Use this information to find each item.
4. Scan Items: Scan the barcode of each item using the app to verify you have the correct product.
5. Handle Substitutions: If an item is unavailable, the app will prompt you to suggest a substitution to the customer. Communicate with the customer to get their approval. If no acceptable substitution is available, mark the item as “Item Not Found.”
6. Communicate with the Customer: Keep the customer informed about your progress and any issues that arise. Use the app’s messaging feature to ask questions and provide updates.
7. Checkout: After gathering all items, proceed to the checkout lane. Scan the Instacart payment card, pay for the order, and bag the groceries.

The Delivery Process: The Final Touch

The delivery is the final impression you make on the customer:

1. Navigate to the Customer’s Location: Use the app to get directions to the customer’s address.
2. Contact the Customer (If Needed): If you have trouble finding the address or need to clarify delivery instructions, contact the customer via the app.
3. Deliver the Groceries: Follow the customer’s delivery instructions. This may involve leaving the groceries at their doorstep, handing them to the customer directly, or delivering to a specific location within their property.
4. Take a Photo: The app usually requires you to take a photo of the delivered groceries as proof of delivery.
5. Mark the Order as Delivered: Once you’ve completed the delivery, mark the order as delivered in the app.

Maximizing Your Earnings and Customer Satisfaction

Delivering Instacart orders can be a lucrative gig, but maximizing your earnings requires a strategic approach:

• Provide Excellent Customer Service: Be friendly, communicative, and responsive to customer requests.
• Choose Batches Wisely: Select batches that offer a good balance of pay, distance, and effort.
• Optimize Your Shopping Speed: Learn the layout of your local stores to shop more efficiently.
• Maintain a High Rating: A good rating leads to more and better batch opportunities.
• Take Advantage of Promotions: Instacart often offers promotions and bonuses to incentivize shoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Delivering Instacart Orders

1. How much can I earn delivering Instacart orders?

Earnings vary widely depending on location, time of day, demand, and your efficiency. Factors like the number of batches you complete, the size of the orders, and customer tips all contribute to your overall income. It’s possible to earn anywhere from a few dollars to over $25 per hour, but consistent effort and strategic batch selection are crucial for maximizing your earnings.

2. What happens if a customer is not home for delivery?

Contact the customer via the app to attempt to reach them. If you’re unable to reach them and the delivery instructions don’t specify a safe place to leave the order, contact Instacart support. They will advise you on the next steps, which may involve returning the groceries to the store (and receiving a return bump payment).

3. What if an item is out of stock?

Communicate with the customer immediately using the app’s messaging feature. Suggest acceptable substitutions, taking into account the customer’s preferences. If the customer doesn’t approve any substitutions or is unresponsive, mark the item as “Item Not Found.”

4. How do I get paid for delivering Instacart orders?

Instacart pays shoppers weekly via direct deposit to the bank account you linked during the onboarding process. You can also opt for instant cashout for a small fee.

5. How does Instacart handle taxes?

As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for paying your own taxes. Instacart provides you with a 1099 form at the end of the year, which you’ll need to file with your tax return. It’s a good idea to track your mileage and expenses throughout the year for potential tax deductions.

6. What are the best times to deliver Instacart orders for maximum earnings?

Peak hours are generally during mealtimes (lunch and dinner) and on weekends. Holidays and special events also tend to be busy periods. Monitor the app to identify the busiest times in your area.

7. How do I handle difficult customers?

Remain professional and courteous at all times. If you encounter a particularly difficult customer, contact Instacart support for assistance. Document any issues or concerns that arise.

8. Can I deliver Instacart orders using a bicycle or scooter?

In some markets, Instacart allows delivery via bicycle or scooter for smaller orders. Check with Instacart support in your area to see if this option is available.

9. What is Instacart’s cancellation policy?

You can cancel a batch after accepting it, but doing so frequently can negatively impact your access to future batches. Cancel as a last resort and only when absolutely necessary.

10. How do I improve my Instacart shopper rating?

Provide excellent customer service, communicate effectively, choose high-quality produce, and deliver orders promptly. Pay attention to detail and go the extra mile to meet customer needs.

11. What types of insurance do I need to deliver Instacart orders?

You need to maintain valid car insurance that meets your state’s minimum requirements. It’s also wise to consider supplemental insurance policies designed for gig workers, providing coverage during the “gap period” when you’re actively working for Instacart but not transporting a customer.

12. What are the best strategies for bagging groceries?

Organize groceries by type and temperature. Keep cold items together, and separate cleaning supplies from food items. Use reusable bags whenever possible. Make sure bags are not too heavy for the customer to handle.