The gig economy has opened up a wide array of opportunities for individuals to earn money on their own terms. One popular option that has gained significant traction is delivering groceries through various platforms. In this guide, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison between two prominent players in the grocery delivery space—Shipt and Instacart. By exploring the similarities and differences in working for Shipt vs Instacart, you can make an informed decision about which platform aligns best with your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways:
- Shipt and Instacart offer flexible side hustles with minimal eligibility requirements.
- Shipt is a grocery shopping service that allows members to order products from local stores through the Shipt app.
- Instacart is an online grocery delivery platform that partners with various local and national retailers.
- Both Shipt and Instacart have competitive pay rates, with Shipt averaging $16 to $22 per hour and Instacart ranging from $10 to $17 per hour.
- Shipt shoppers have the opportunity to choose specific metro areas to minimize travel, while Instacart has a wider geographic presence with partnerships with over 1,400 retailers.
What is Shipt?
Shipt is a grocery shopping service that allows members to order groceries and other products from local stores through the Shipt app. Founded in 2014 in Birmingham, Alabama, Shipt has expanded to over 5,000 cities across the United States. Members have the option to pay a yearly or monthly membership fee to receive free delivery on orders over a certain amount. Non-members can still use Shipt for a one-time delivery fee. Shipt shoppers, referred to as personal shoppers, fulfill the orders by shopping for the requested items and delivering them to the members’ homes.
With Shipt, convenience and flexibility are just a few clicks away. Whether you need ingredients for a last-minute dinner, household essentials, or even specialty items from your favorite local stores, Shipt makes it easy to shop from the comfort of your own home.
As a member, you can enjoy the following benefits:
- Access to a wide selection of groceries and products from local stores
- Convenient ordering through the Shipt app
- Flexible delivery options
- Free delivery on orders over a certain amount for members
- Reliable and friendly personal shoppers who handpick your items
Not a member? No worries! Shipt still offers a one-time delivery option for non-members, allowing you to experience the convenience of having groceries delivered right to your doorstep.
Shipt membership and delivery fees are designed to provide you with options that suit your shopping needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of a monthly membership or the flexibility of a pay-as-you-go delivery fee, Shipt has you covered.
With Shipt, grocery shopping has never been easier. Say goodbye to long queues and crowded aisles, and say hello to a stress-free shopping experience with the help of Shipt and their dedicated personal shoppers.
What is Instacart?
Instacart is an online grocery delivery platform that provides customers with the convenience of ordering groceries from a wide range of local and national retailers through the Instacart app. Founded in 2012, Instacart has expanded its services to over 5,500 cities across the United States and Canada, making it accessible to a large customer base. With Instacart, customers have the flexibility to choose between same-day delivery and scheduled delivery options, ensuring that their groceries are delivered at their preferred time.
One of the key features of Instacart is its membership program called Instacart Express. Customers can sign up for an annual membership that offers them free delivery on eligible orders, avoiding additional fees for each individual delivery. This membership program is beneficial for frequent users who rely on Instacart for their grocery needs.
Instacart provides two types of shoppers – full-service shoppers and in-store shoppers. Full-service shoppers handle the entire shopping and delivery process, selecting and delivering groceries directly to the customers’ doorstep. In-store shoppers, on the other hand, exclusively shop in-store for customers who prefer to pick up their groceries themselves. This diverse shopper model allows Instacart to cater to different customer preferences and delivery options.
Instacart Delivery Options:
- Same-day Delivery: Instacart offers customers the convenience of same-day delivery, ensuring that their groceries are delivered promptly. This option is ideal for customers who need their groceries quickly or prefer to avoid in-store shopping.
- Scheduled Delivery: For customers who prefer to plan their grocery deliveries in advance, Instacart offers scheduled delivery. This option allows customers to select a specific date and time slot for their groceries to be delivered, providing them with flexibility and convenience.
To illustrate the growth and impact of Instacart, below is a table showcasing the number of cities that Instacart operates in the United States and Canada:
| Year | Number of Cities |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 2 |
| 2015 | 18 |
| 2018 | 5,000 |
| 2021 | 5,500 |
Working for Shipt vs. Instacart: A Comparison of Job Factors
When comparing working for Shipt and Instacart, it’s important to consider various factors that can impact your experience as a shopper. Both platforms have similar eligibility requirements, including being at least 18 years old and having a valid driver’s license. However, there are some differences in job requirements and pay rates.
Job Requirements
Shipt requires shoppers to have a reliable vehicle made in 1997 or newer, ensuring that deliveries are made efficiently and safely. On the other hand, Instacart doesn’t specify a vehicle age requirement, making it more flexible in terms of transportation options. Additionally, while Shipt expects shoppers to have some knowledge of produce, Instacart does not explicitly state this requirement, allowing for a broader range of applicants.
Pay Rates
Both Shipt and Instacart offer competitive pay rates, which can vary based on factors such as location and order volume. Shipt shoppers can expect to earn an average of $16 to $22 per hour, while Instacart pays around $10 to $17 per hour. It’s important to note that these rates are subject to change and may vary based on individual performance and other factors.
Shopper Benefits
Both Shipt and Instacart provide various benefits to their shoppers. Shipt offers referral bonuses, occasional promotions, and discounts for its users. Instacart also offers referral bonuses, as well as incentives for meeting certain performance metrics. These benefits can provide additional income and rewards for shoppers, enhancing the overall earning potential.
By considering these job factors, you can make an informed decision about working for Shipt or Instacart. Whether you prioritize specific job requirements, pay rates, or shopper benefits, it’s essential to choose the platform that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
Next, we will compare the shopper experience and support provided by Shipt and Instacart to further assist you in making the right choice.
Shipt vs. Instacart: Comparing Shopper Experience and Support
The experience of working as a shopper for Shipt and Instacart can differ in certain aspects. Let’s take a closer look at the shopper experience and support offered by both platforms.
Shopper Experience
Shipt shoppers have the advantage of being able to choose specific metro areas where they want to shop. This allows them to minimize travel time and become familiar with certain stores, ultimately enhancing their overall shopping experience. Additionally, Shipt fosters a sense of community among its shoppers by organizing exclusive events and meetups, providing a supportive environment for its workforce.
Instacart, on the other hand, boasts a wider geographic presence, with availability in more cities and partnerships with over 1,400 retailers. This means that Instacart shoppers have access to a larger customer base and a greater variety of shopping opportunities. While community events may not be as prominent with Instacart, the platform offers a diverse range of retail options, enabling shoppers to explore various stores and products.
Shopper Support
Both Shipt and Instacart prioritize shopper support and offer 24/7 customer service. Shoppers can reach out for assistance through multiple channels, including email and phone. Whether it’s a question about an order or a concern about navigating the app, shoppers can rely on prompt and reliable support from both platforms.
Furthermore, both Shipt and Instacart provide user-friendly apps that streamline the ordering and fulfillment process. Shoppers can accept and manage orders seamlessly through these apps, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow. While occasional glitches may occur, both platforms continuously work to improve and optimize their apps for a better user experience.
| Factor | Shipt | Instacart |
|---|---|---|
| Ability to Choose Specific Metro Areas | Yes | No |
| Number of Cities and Retailer Partnerships | 5,000+ cities | 5,500+ cities, 1,400+ retailers |
| Community Events and Meetups | Yes | No |
| 24/7 Shopper Support | Yes | Yes |
| User-Friendly App | Yes | Yes |
Both Shipt and Instacart strive to provide a positive shopper experience and comprehensive support for their shoppers. Ultimately, the choice between the two platforms depends on individual preferences, such as the desire for community engagement or access to a wider range of shopping opportunities. Regardless of the platform chosen, shoppers can enjoy flexible earning potential and the convenience of delivering groceries to customers’ doors.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Shipt and Instacart, the decision ultimately boils down to your individual preferences and circumstances. If you value the ability to select specific metro areas to minimize travel and enjoy community events, Shipt may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a wider geographic presence and the flexibility to work as an in-store shopper without a car, Instacart may be more suitable.
Both Shipt and Instacart offer competitive pay rates, shopper benefits, and user-friendly apps, ensuring a positive working experience. It’s crucial to consider factors such as availability in your area, vehicle requirements, and the level of community involvement you desire. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision about which platform aligns best with your needs and priorities.
In conclusion, whether you choose Shipt or Instacart, both platforms provide excellent opportunities for earning money and enjoying the benefits of a flexible side hustle in the gig economy. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each option, considering your own preferences and circumstances, to determine which platform offers the best fit for you.
FAQ
What are the eligibility requirements for working for Shipt and Instacart?
To work for Shipt and Instacart, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Shipt requires shoppers to have a reliable vehicle made in 1997 or newer.
What are the pay rates for Shipt and Instacart?
Shipt shoppers earn an average of $16 to $22 per hour, while Instacart shoppers earn around $10 to $17 per hour.
What job benefits do Shipt and Instacart offer?
Both Shipt and Instacart provide various shopper benefits such as referral bonuses, occasional promotions, and discounts for users.
Can Shipt shoppers choose specific metro areas to work in?
Yes, Shipt shoppers have the opportunity to choose specific metro areas where they want to shop, allowing them to minimize travel and become familiar with certain stores.
Do Shipt and Instacart offer customer support?
Yes, both Shipt and Instacart offer 24/7 customer service through multiple channels such as email and phone.
