Customers make orders from grocery stores and the orders are delivered by delivery drivers who operate as freelance. Customers who frequently use the Instacart service can register for membership called annual Instacart Express membership which helps to save money and delivery fee. Instacart offers grocery services only and is just like Uber Eats and Postmates. Delivery is done right to the customer’s doorstep. The charges depend on the number of hours though can rise during busy hours. One hour charge is $7.99 and two hours $5.99.
To begin using the Instacart service, a customer has to sign up through the Instacart app by downloading. A customer then enters a Zip code to get to find out the stores available close to them, then creates an account and begins shopping. There are a variety of store choices available for customers ranging from convenience stores, pet stores, and speciality stores. If a customer has used the Instacart service before, the previous store shows at the top of the screen hence being able to get quick access.
Instacart Market place.
The stores add to more than 300 retailers just to mention a few like Aldi, Albertsons, Kroger, Sam’s Club, and Sprout. A customer chooses a store they prefer and get to see what they offer by browsing. Better still, after a customer places their order, it is matched with a delivery driver a personal shopper who then does the shopping and delivers the groceries to the customer. There is a fee charged for delivery and also the shopper should get a tip.
How Orders are done on Instacart.
On the Instacart app, a customer creates an account either using a Google account, Facebook, or email address. From a given store, products are identified either by category or name. On completion of the shopping, it is important to confirm before paying. Following the process is key for the customer because if an issue arises like missing stock, the shopper should communicate. The shoppers and drivers are not employees of Instacart hence they do not get benefits. Their pay is determined by the number of orders they work on and how long they can work. Appreciating and recognizing shoppers for good work is important.
The shoppers work very fast, pick items around a store, share information if stocks are missing and what can serve as a substitute, and use a preloaded Instacart card to check out at the register. The debit card is loaded by default with the exact amount to facilitate order payment.
There are Instacart shoppers in two categories;
Those who shop, deliver, and can work anytime that is convenient for them. They are independent and duties are available as long as Instacart Work operates. They have no benefits. Those that are part-time employees of Instacart to shop only and do not deliver. They work for some hours a week and get benefits.
How can a person become a shopper on Instacart?
The requirements include;
Age limit of 18 years and aboveThe ability to lift some pounds to 50 but at least 30 without help. Be cleared after a background check. Have an account mainly checking or savings. Shoppers working as independent contractors must have a valid driver’s license, a car, an insurance cover, and have enough thermal insulated bags. Sign up by downloading the shopper app and providing details like name and location to allow Instacart to do a background check, set details of availability, pick gigs and, track earnings. The Instacart employees need to get a personal orientation through the app by selecting a session. Those working as independent contractors have to sign a contract. Register for an Instacart payment card.
The Latest Updates and Developments from Instacart.
They include;
Improving the customer rating system by adding features designed to be fair and provide more information to shoppers on its platform. The introduction of Instacart +, a better version of Instacart Express subscription. It has a new family shopping feature. For orders exceeding $35, it has free delivery, credit back on pick-up, and a reduced service fee. The cost of groceries will be effective, and shopping and delivery time will also reduce from hours to minutes. A Family Account through which subscribers can share subscriptions with others of the same household at no charge. A new Family Cart that members of the same household will share a cart by adding items of their choice. There will be a free Instacart Membership for Chase card members.
Conclusion.
Instacart offered much help to customers during the Covid-19 pandemic when being in crowded places was prohibited. Customers were able to get items right at their doorstep.
