The gig economy has exploded in recent years. More people than ever are choosing flexible work instead of traditional 9-to-5 jobs. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone looking to earn extra cash on the side, grocery delivery apps offer a real chance to make money on your schedule. This Instacart vs Shipt comparison explores their differences in depth, including real shopper insights.

But not all delivery apps are created equal. Instacart and Shipt lead the market, yet they function in different ways. While both allow you to shop and deliver groceries, each has a unique system, payout model, and shopper experience.

This guide was written for real side hustlers like you—people who value time, want honest earnings, and need a gig that fits their lifestyle. We’re not just comparing apps—we’re sharing what it’s like to drive, shop, and deliver with each one.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which app can help you earn more, save time, and work smarter.

Instacart vs. Shipt: Best Grocery Delivery App for Side Hustlers

What Is Instacart and How Does It Compare to Shipt?

Instacart U.S. As a shop owner, you can choose to be a full-service shop owner. Shopping and ordering or a store that just creates a pickup. Most giant workers choose to have a full-service role, as it provides more freedom and better pay. Unlike a regular part-time job, Instacart lets you work completely on your schedule, making it a top choice for side hustles, students and anyone looking for flexible income.

One of the standout features of Instacart is its on-demand model. There’s no need to schedule shifts—you can simply log in and start working when it’s convenient. The app shows your total expected earnings, including tips, before you accept any batch, helping you avoid low-paying orders. It also partners with major retailers like Costco, Aldi, and Safeway, giving you access to more orders across multiple neighbourhoods. With time and experience, many shoppers learn to spot high-paying batches and increase their hourly earnings during peak periods. Understanding how the Instacart app works is essential in this Instacart vs Shipt comparison.

What Is Shipt and How Is It Different from Instacart?

While Shipt offers a different structure, the Instacart vs Shipt comparison comes down to how you prefer to work. Shipt is a same-day grocery delivery app that launched in 2014 and was acquired by Target in 2017. Since then, it has become a trusted service for customers and gig workers alike. While it doesn’t operate in as many markets as Instacart, Shipt maintains a strong presence in areas with Target, Meijer, and other regional grocery chains. What makes Shipt stand out is its focus on building shopper-customer relationships. The platform encourages repeat connections, which often leads to better tips, smoother communication, and a more enjoyable experience on both sides. To better understand which one fits your needs, this Instacart vs Shipt comparison looks at key features like pay, scheduling, and shopper experience.

Many shoppers appreciate Shipt’s clean, user-friendly interface and responsive support. The app is especially popular among new gig workers thanks to its structured system and clear process. Signing up for scheduled shifts helps reduce downtime and increases the chances of steady work. Those who keep a high rating often get early access to high-paying orders and exclusive promotions, making it easier to boost weekly earnings.

Instacart vs Shipt Comparison: Pay Rates

For most side hustlers, pay is the biggest factor when choosing a grocery delivery app. While earnings vary by city, time of day, and shopper efficiency, real-world averages give us a good idea of what to expect. In busy cities like New York, Instacart shoppers typically earn around $22 per hour with tips included. Shipt shoppers in the same area often report slightly higher earnings—close to $25 per hour—especially when delivering larger orders from stores like Target.

In fast-growing cities such as Austin, Texas, Instacart shoppers usually make about $18 an hour, though peak hours can push earnings to $30 or more. Shipt users in Austin average closer to $20, thanks to bonus opportunities and a loyal customer base that tips generously. In smaller towns, the trend changes. Instacart tends to offer more consistent batches because of its broader network of partner stores. Shipt, meanwhile, may have fewer orders unless you’re near a major chain like Meijer or Target, making it less reliable in rural areas without some travel.

Wait time is another factor to consider. Instacart can involve long gaps between batches, especially during slow periods or in overcrowded zones. Shipt minimizes this with its shift-based system, allowing shoppers to schedule their hours in advance for more predictable work. This helps reduce idle time, as long as you plan and maintain strong ratings. In terms of pay alone, the Instacart vs Shipt comparison can shift depending on where you live.

Tip Transparency: Instacart vs Shipt

When it comes to tips, the Instacart vs Shipt comparison gets interesting. Instacart offers full tip transparency—you see the total pay, including the customer’s tip, before accepting a batch. This lets you prioritize higher-paying orders and avoid multi-order batches with little to no tips. Many shoppers boost their tips by delivering carefully, staying in touch with customers, and sometimes including a short thank-you note. These small touches often lead to better ratings and repeat tips.

Shipt, on the other hand, reveals tip amounts only after delivery. While that creates uncertainty, it also gives shoppers a chance to impress and earn more. Clear communication during the order—like checking on preferred substitutes—and careful packing go a long way. Some shoppers even offer to help carry bags when appropriate. Many of Shipt’s top earners say their biggest tips come from repeat customers who regularly request them, turning good service into steady income.

Ratings and Reviews: Instacart vs Shipt Shopper Feedback

Your rating as a shopper plays a key role in how many orders you receive on both Instacart and Shipt. Each platform uses a 5-star system, but they manage performance differently. On Instacart, your rating is based on your most recent 100 orders. The platform now offers more protection for shoppers by allowing unfair reviews to be removed, especially if issues were beyond your control, like out-of-stock items. A single bad rating won’t hurt your standing as long as your overall score remains high. Still, keeping a strong rating matters because lower scores can reduce access to better-paying jobs.

Shipt also uses a 5-star system but applies it with stricter standards. High ratings unlock early access to top orders, bonus offers, and more frequent delivery opportunities. However, shoppers must stay consistent. If your rating drops or you miss too many scheduled shifts, your account could be reviewed or temporarily paused. That’s why strong communication and reliability are so important on this platform. While Shipt rewards top performers well, it’s less forgiving when service falls short. Another key factor in the Instacart vs Shipt comparison is how each platform handles shopper ratings and reviews.

Order Complexity and Batch Size: Instacart vs Shipt Compared

Grocery deliveries can vary a lot—some are simple and quick, while others feel more like a full shopping marathon. Instacart offers batches that range in size and complexity. You might get a single large order or a multi-stop batch with two or three deliveries. More stops usually mean more earnings, but also more work. Many batches include 20 to 30 items, and some go beyond 40, especially during busy weekends or holidays. Alcohol orders also require ID verification at the door, adding an extra step. One helpful feature is that Instacart shows batch details upfront, including store location, item count, and delivery distance. This lets you decide if the order is worth your time before accepting it.

Shipt, in contrast, focuses on smaller, easier deliveries. The average order includes around 15 to 20 items and usually involves just one stop. Since Shipt emphasizes customer relationships, shoppers often receive messages during the trip with specific requests or substitutions. Although that requires a bit more communication, the overall process tends to be faster and less physically demanding. Shipt is ideal if you prefer lighter loads, quicker trips, and less time navigating large stores. A big part of this Instacart vs Shipt comparison is how complex the typical order is on each app.

Instacart vs Shipt: Scheduling and Peak Time Differences

This section of the Instacart vs Shipt comparison focuses on how your schedule and peak time strategy impact your earnings. In grocery delivery, timing can make a big difference in how much you earn. Instacart offers a flexible model that doesn’t require you to schedule hours in advance. You can simply open the app and start shopping whenever it fits your day, making it perfect for those who prefer spontaneous or part-time side hustles. The busiest hours are typically weekday evenings from 4 PM to 8 PM and weekend mornings between 10 AM and 2 PM. During these peak times, more batches appear, and shoppers often get better tips and access to bonuses. This flexibility is a key reason many side hustlers favour Instacart—it fits around your life, not the other way around.

Shipt takes a more structured approach. To get steady orders, you’re encouraged to schedule your hours ahead of time. This system helps ensure consistent work, especially if you like to plan your week. Shipt does allow unscheduled shopping, but those orders are limited and often less rewarding. Peak hours usually fall between 3 PM and 7 PM on weekdays and throughout Sunday. While it lacks Instacart’s drop-in freedom, Shipt works well for those who prefer routine and want to secure earnings without checking their phone all day.

App Features and Experience: Instacart or Shipt for Better Use?

In gig work, having a smooth app can make or break your day. Both Instacart and Shipt offer well-designed platforms, but they have different styles. Instacart’s app is fast and is designed to make decisions on the go. It shows a live map with available batches, pay details, and tips upfront—letting you grab high-paying orders and skip the rest. Features like in-app navigation and item location help speed up shopping. Still, some users report glitches after updates and frustration when top batches disappear quickly due to bots or competition.

Shipt, meanwhile, offers a more structured and beginner-friendly feel. Its app makes scanning items, planning routes, and chatting with customers easy. Promo alerts help you track bonus chances, and you can request your preferred delivery zones. However, tips aren’t shown until after delivery, which makes it harder to estimate pay upfront. Also, if you don’t pre-schedule shifts, you might see fewer orders, especially during slow periods.

Let’s explore the user interface in this Instacart vs Shipt comparison to see which app feels smoother.

Instacart vs Shipt: Bonuses, Support, and Promo Comparison

Both Instacart and Shipt offer ways to boost your earnings beyond regular delivery pay. Instacart gives frequent bonuses like “Peak Boost,” which adds $2 to $5 per order during busy times. It also offers challenges for completing a set number of batches and gives referral bonuses when someone joins through your link. These bonuses are smaller but appear often and add up for active shoppers.

Shipt offers more structured incentives. Metro bonuses pay extra in high-demand areas, and top-rated shoppers may get early access to better orders. Shipt also runs promos that pay up to $100 for completing deliveries within a short time. Like Instacart, it offers referral bonuses, but Shipt focuses more on consistency than speed.

Support is different, too. Instacart has in-app chat, a phone line during batches, and a help centre, though replies can be slow. Shipt offers a more personal touch—new shoppers may get mentors, and many areas have Facebook groups or local managers who offer help and advice. This stronger support makes Shipt feel more like a community. These bonus structures are key when evaluating Instacart vs Shipt as side hustle options.

Shopper Community and Support

A good support system can make or break your gig experience, and this Instacart vs Shipt comparison highlights key differences. Both Instacart and Shipt offer support systems, but the experience varies. Instacart offers standard equipment such as Live Chat, a telephone line for active parties and a help centre in the app. While these resources work, many shop owners say that the response time is inconsistent. Some get help quickly, while others wait too long, especially during peak hours.

Shipt takes a more socially driven approach. New shop owners are often matched with local masters, and in many areas, active Facebook groups work as support networks where shop owners share advice and solve problems at the same time. Regional managers or contacts also contact shop owners, offer guidance and set construction conditions. Such personal support helps new drivers feel less alone and keeps experienced shop owners busy. Shipt doesn’t just solve problems—it creates a team-like environment that many gig workers find encouraging and helpful.

Sign-Up Requirements

Getting started with Instacart or Shipt is easy, making both apps great options for anyone new to gig work. To join either platform, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and a smartphone—iOS or Android. Since all navigation and order management happen in-app, a working phone is essential. Both companies require a background check, which usually clears within a few days.

Instacart provides a little more flexibility for non-runners. In selected areas, you can serve as a shopper, jump and package the order without the need to be delivered. However, Shipt requires a reliable car and a pristine bag to keep the grocery items fresh. Although it adds a slight advance cost, it also helps to maintain the ship to get reliable service. If you meet basic requirements and are ready to work, both apps do it quickly and easily and begin to serve.

Repetition of Professionals and Sects

Both Instacart and Shipt provide solid methods to earn extra revenue, but they have different work styles. Instacart stands out for its flexibility. You can log in whenever you want – there is no need to plan the shift – and start accepting batches. The app shows full pay management, including tips, which helps you make smart decisions. With a wide store network and higher volume of orders, Instacart gives you more opportunities, especially to serve in big cities. Still, this is not right. Stores often have to meet the app errors, high-disregarded orders due to terrible competition and current customer service delays, which can often make the experience disappointing.

Shiput provides a more structured and supportive environment. Shops benefit from a loyal customer base and strong internal support. Planned shifts reduce passive time and provide more even earnings, especially for people with high rankings. Many SHIPT orders are small and easy to handle, which makes the job be physically low. However, not seeing tips upfront can make it harder to predict pay. And with Shipt’s stricter rating system, even a few poor reviews can limit access to top orders. You also need to plan to stay active and competitive. This detailed Instacart vs Shipt comparison helps you decide which work model fits your personal goals best.

Who Should Choose Instacart Over Shipt?

Instacart is a good fit for side houses that want flexibility and complete control when working. There is no need to plan changes – you can log in at any time and catch parties as they come. It makes students, busy parents or ideal to work around any unexpected routine. This especially appeals to fast-paced workers who go to stores quickly and aim to fulfil several orders during rush hour.

A big advantage with Instacart is tip transparency. You see total pay—including tips—before accepting a batch, which helps you avoid low-paying jobs. Instacart also offers access to more stores and higher order volume in most cities, giving you more chances to earn. For those who hustle smart and know how to spot valuable batches, Instacart can be a rewarding and efficient side gig.

Who Should Choose Shipt Instead of Instacart?

Shipt is a strong option for side hustlers who like structure and routine. If you prefer planning and avoiding the stress of competing for orders in real time, Shipt’s schedule-based model works well. You can book your hours in advance, which helps minimize downtime and keeps your day predictable. Shipt also tends to offer smaller, simpler orders—perfect for those who want to avoid heavy or complex batches.

Another key advantage is Shipt’s focus on customer relationships. Shoppers with high ratings often get repeat orders, leading to better tips and easier interactions. Many users also highlight Shipt’s friendly, responsive support team, which adds a helpful layer of personal service. If you’re new to gig work or want a community-driven experience with less daily uncertainty, Shipt delivers a more supportive and steady side hustle.

FAQs

Q1: Can I work for both Instacart and Shipt at the same time?
Yes! Many pages Hustls use to maximize revenue.

Q2: Does Shipt or Instacart pay more?
On average, Shipt pays a little more per order, but Instacart provides more flexibility and high-tipping customers.

Q3: Which app is easier for beginners?
Shipt has a friendlier learning curve, but Instacart has more order volume.

Q4: Are there background checks?
Yes. Both platforms run basic background checks before approval.

Q5: Which cities are best for each app?

• Instacart is better in large metros such as Chicago, Atlanta and LA.
• Shipt dominates in Target-heavy cities like Minneapolis and Austin.

Which Is Best for Side Hustlers?

The Instacart vs Shipt comparison isn’t only about money—it’s about lifestyle, preferences, and long-term side hustle success. Both platforms have loyal shop owners, but the best option depends on how flexible you want your schedule and how much structure you like.

Instacart is ideal for those who value freedom. You can log in without ordering shifts at any time, which is perfect for those who want to work around school, another job or other responsibilities.

On the other hand, Shipt works better for those who prefer a planned routine. Ordering hours in advance helps to ensure frequent work, especially for shop owners with strong rankings. Shipt is known for better customer service and a helpful society. Relations with repeated customers often have high tips.

Each app has professionals and resistance. Instacart provides independence and flexibility, but can be competitive and unexpected. Shipt provides structure and help, but it rewards people who plan and act continuously. For many side houses, using both apps is the smartest step. This gives you more control, access to bonuses on both platforms and the ability to move your strategy based on the best work that day. Whether you want flexibility or structure, the Instacart vs Shipt decision depends on how you like to hustle. You can also explore the top 10 side hustles for introverts from our other posts.