Does Instacart pay well

Does Instacart pay well? Can it be compared to other major players like DoorDash and Uber Eats?

Let's find out.

Instacart revenue depends on your work location, number of orders, rating, and optimization of work strategy.

Let's take a closer look at how much you can earn on Instacart, what factors affect your reward, and explore optimal strategies for maximizing profits.

We'll focus on delivery riders who deliver orders on e-bikes.

Does Instacart pay well, and in which way?

Yes, it pays. Instacart is paying in two ways.

The first one is called "Full-Service Shopper" - used" by contractors, who deliver orders to customers. This program pays for each completed order, a bonus from the customer, plus a bonus for working during peak hours.

The second one is "In-Store Shopper" - made for guys who only collect orders in store, and basically they are not involved in delivery. In-store shoppers are jobs for a fixed hourly wage ($12-$16 per hour, depending on location).

How much money do delivery riders receive on Instacart?

A delivery rider's income depends on the city, demand, and place of work.‍

Despite the high wages, many delivery riders earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the city and the volume of orders. However, full-service buyers must take into account fuel costs, car maintenance, and insurance, which reduces net profit.

Factors influencing income in Instacart

Location and demand
Large cities make it easier to earn money because there are more orders and larger tips. In the suburbs and rural areas, the volume of orders may be fewer, making income unpredictable.

Working hours and peak hours
Working during peak hours increases income:

1. Weekdays, mornings (8:00 – 11:00) – customers order delivery on the day.
2. Evening (17:00 – 20:00) – peak orders after work.
3. Weekend (10:00 – 18:00) – the busiest time.
4. Instacart provides bonuses for working during rush hours, which increases revenue.

Tips from customers
Since delivery riders are paid exclusively with tips, pleasant communication and excellent service significantly increase income. For some performers, tips amount to 30-40% of their revenue.

Order size and delivery distance
The larger the order, the higher the payment, but longer routes lead to increased fuel costs and delivery times. City delivery riders on electric bicycles avoid these costs by working more efficiently.

How can I make more money on Instacart?

1. Work in busy areas.
   Choose areas with a large number of shops and active Instacart users to receive new orders faster.
2. Fulfill more profitable orders.
   Some delivery riders ignore low-paying orders in favor of larger shipments with large tips.
3. Use an electric bike instead of a car.
   The main expenses of full-service shoppers are related to gasoline and vehicle maintenance. An electric bike reduces these costs and also makes delivery more convenient in cities.‍
   
4. Keep track of the time during rush hour.
   Use demand maps in the Instacart app to plan routes in advance and be in the right place at the right time.
5. Work on holidays and in inclement weather.
   Orders skyrocket during holidays, sporting events, and bad weather, leading to increased revenue and generous tips.

Car vs. e-bike for Instacart

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Customers who provide a full range of services should consider expenses when determining net profit.

Let's compare the cost of a car and an electric bike.

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Click here to rent

Is it worth working at Instacart?

We would say yes. Registration is simple, and you may receive a 100% tip, along with high earnings. The downside is income uncertainty due to the lack of a fixed hourly rate and car expenses reducing your net profit. Instacart also requires a well-planned work schedule.

For those looking for a flexible and profitable source of income, Instacart is a great choice, especially if you use an electric bike to save money and earn more!

Related: 10 apps like Instacart that pay out well

Conclusion

Yes, Instacart pays between $15 and $25 per hour, although it greatly depends on your location and approach.

Read also: Best e-bike for Instacart delivery