It may be enhanced with the service known as Instacart; you may have even used it before when you didn't want to leave the house. This type of delivery service is now more popular than ever, especially given the global situation where people are being advised to stay at home.
If you haven't used Instacart before, but have been meaning to, you've come to the right place. Instacart reviews like this, you'll be able to break down all the information you need to know. By the end of this article, you'll be able to make an informed decision about whether Instacart is a grocery delivery service that works for you.
What is Instacart?
Basically, Instacart is an app and a website where you can order groceries and other items for your home. Personal shoppers will get the items for you and ultimately deliver them to your home once they have purchased everything on your list. The service has a wide selection of partner stores, depending on your area, which means you're spoiled for choice.
instacart express
Instacart Express is a subscription service from Instacart that offers more benefits. Of course, it is a completely optional offer that is adapted to people who constantly use the service. With Instacart Express, orders over $35 will get free delivery; In addition, the service fees on your orders will also see a reduction. This premium service offers two pricing options: $99 per year or $9.99 per month.
How does Instacart work?
As mentioned, a personal shopper will receive your shopping list and then shop for your groceries for you. However, before you start using Instacart, check to see if the service is available where you live. Then, once you're sure Instacart will work for you, continue with the steps below to start shopping.
Create an account
You can create a free account either through the Instacart app or the website. The process is quick and easy: all you need to do is enter your name, email, and password.
Enter your address
Go ahead and sign in to the app or website; either way is fine. After doing so, Instacart will ask you to type in your zip code or address so it knows where shoppers are supposed to deliver items. You will also be given a list of partner stores based on the address you enter. Choose which store you want to buy groceries from, but you can change this at any time if you change your mind.
start shopping
At this point, it's time you start shopping. Review the different options available; in fact, you can even compare the prices of the different brands and sizes available to help you decide if you're making sound financial decisions. Once you are sure you want to buy something, click "add to cart".
Choose substitutions and delivery time
For each item in your cart, you can give your personal shopper some instructions in case they have substitution preferences. In the event that an item is not available, your personal shopper will still be able to offer you what you want based on these preferences. If you don't have a replacement in mind, you also have the "Don't Replace" option. This means that Instacart will not charge you for items that are not available.
It is worth mentioning that the amount you will be charged or refunded depends on the price of the replacement items. Then choose your delivery time. Depending on what time you placed your order, you may even be able to receive your items within 2 hours.
Enter Payment Information
After reviewing your order and making sure you're satisfied, enter your payment information. Then be sure to tip before finalizing your order.
Receive your order
All you have to do now is sit back and wait for your order to be delivered. Of course, make sure you're available to receive your personal shopper's order when the time comes. When your buyer is on their way home, they'll receive an email, text, or call; it depends on your preferences.
Advantages
same day delivery
You will be able to receive your groceries the same day you placed your order, sometimes even as soon as 2 hours later. This can be especially helpful for those who forgot to buy ingredients but don't want to leave the house, or for people who are sick and can't go shopping on their own.
ease and convenience
With the touch of a button, you can order everything you need without ever getting up or leaving your seat. You can also use Instacart on different platforms, whether you're on your phone, laptop, or tablet. Once your order is being worked on, you can chat with your buyer, track their progress, and receive all sorts of updates to put your mind at ease.
Variety
As mentioned, Instacart has a wide selection of partner stores. As such, you can compare the different prices of various stores if you're looking for something cheap before adding the item to your cart.
Disadvantages
Additional charges
Buying groceries from Instacart means you have to pay extra fees that could have been avoided if you had gone shopping yourself. There is the delivery fee, service fee, and tip, which could really increase based on your orders.
More expensive
Depending on the store's pricing policies, some will have higher prices on Instacart than in the store.