Instacart Shopper Requirements

The Instacart Shopper program allows gig workers to earn money by shopping where and when they want. Here, we’ll explain the Instacart Shopper requirements, factors to consider before you apply, and what to expect during the sign-up process.

Instacart driver requirements 

Here are the Instacart driver requirements you’ll need to meet:

• Age requirement: 18 or older
• Eligibility to work in the United States
• Social security number
• Bank account information to set up your direct deposit
• Ability to lift 40 lbs (18 kg)
• Passing a background check

Car requirements

• Consistent access to a vehicle 
• Driver’s license
• Auto insurance 

You’ll also need a smartphone with a data plan and the Instacart app installed on your device. 

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Full-service shopper vs. In-store shopper 

Whether you’re a full-service or in-store shopper, this will be a 1099 contractor position. Here’s what you should know about each role before you make a decision.

Full-service shopper 

• You must have a car with auto insurance coverage to make the deliveries.
• You’re responsible for buying the groceries and delivering them to your customers.
• You’re a contractor (you’re responsible for managing your taxes).
• You can shop at multiple stores, choose your batches, and decide your hours.
• You can cash out within two hours of completing a batch or receive weekly direct deposits. 
• You can earn high ratings and tips from customers. 

In-store shopper 

• You’ll work at a retail location, shop for the items, and prepare for pickup or delivery.
• You’re an employee (the company handles your taxes).
• You’ll have a consistent and predictable hourly wage. 
• You can work up to 29 hours weekly. 
• A car is not required for this role.

Factors to consider before you apply

These are some considerations to know about before you decide to sign up. 

Physical health

• This job is ideal for someone physically mobile, as you’ll need to be on your feet when you hand-pick the items. 
• Some orders require lifting bulky and heavy items, such as water bottles or canned goods. So, you’ll need to ensure that you can carry large products from the store to your car.

Batch availability 

• Participating national and regional retail stores include grocery stores, pet supplies, and drug stores.
• Batches are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
• A batch can include up to three orders. This will involve multi-tasking several grocery orders simultaneously. You’ll need to be able to handle potential high-stress situations.
• You don’t get penalized for declining batches, which is reassuring that it won’t impact your future earnings. 

Customer service

• Unlike ridesharing, you don’t need to constantly interact with passengers in a vehicle. 
• However, you’ll need to chat with customers about substitutions or out-of-stock items.
• You’ll need to be careful not to mix up the orders. Having separate insulated bags for each order will help you to stay organized. 

Financial implications

As with other gig driving platforms, the demand can vary by location and time of day. Thus, the pay may be inconsistent.

How much can you earn as an Instacart Shopper?

As a full-service shopper, you can earn an average of $7 to $10 for full-service batches. The wage can range from $15 to $20 per hour. These earnings will vary by region and the time of day you work. In contrast, if you’re an in-store shopper, you’ll earn a fixed hourly wage. 

The company pays out weekly via direct deposit. Alternatively, you can use the Instant Cashout feature for a fee of $0.50. You’ll need a minimum earnings of $5.00 in your account. First-time users will need to complete five orders before they cash out. 

Keep in mind that as an independent contractor, you’ll need to set aside a portion of your earnings to pay taxes. 

Tips to earn more money as an Instacart Shopper 

These are some ways you can earn a few extra bucks as an Instacart Shopper:

• You can schedule your work hours in advance using the app. This will allow you to work during peak earning times. 
• Familiarize yourself with the store layout. This can help you be more efficient when shopping for the requested items.
• Be strategic about your batch selection. You can calculate whether the earnings are worth the effort based on the number of items, the shopping time, and the estimated travel time.
• Some batches may include promotions where you can qualify for heavy pay or during high demand. 
• Occasionally, you may have the option to add a batch to your queue. This will keep you busy and boost your earnings. 
• Providing excellent customer service will help you earn more tips. 

The application process 

Here are the four simple steps to apply for the Instacart Shopper program: 

Step 1: Sign up. You can fill out the form here. Be sure to download the app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

Step 2: Create an account. This is where you can submit your documents. You’ll also need to pass a background check. If your documents are ready, the application process should take 15 minutes.

Step 3: Get approved. You’ll need to pass the Instacart requirements. This process may take between one to four days.

Step 4: Start earning money. Log into the app to choose and fulfill your grocery orders.

Overview of the Instacart Shopper Platform

Here’s a general overview of what you can expect when you’re approved to be a full-service Instacart Shopper:

To maximize your earnings, you can check the peak times in the app and make a schedule in advance. When you go online, you’ll see available stores that are color-coded to indicate how buy they are. 

As you approach the store, you’ll see the available batches and the associated earnings. You can choose to accept the batch or wait for the next one. When you start shopping, you’ll see the customer’s grocery list and the aisles to locate the items. You may need to message the customer regarding substitutions, preferences, or sold-out items. 

At checkout, you can use the payment card provided to you. To make the delivery,  the app will help you navigate to the customer’s location, and you can cash out within two hours.

The Instacart program is available in all 50 states across the U.S. You can find the participating grocery stores in your area by entering your zip code.

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