Shipt vs. Instacart Review (2024)

Grocery shopping has never been more convenient with the rise of e-commerce and the availability of various grocery delivery services. Two popular options in the United States are Shipt and Instacart. If you’re looking for a comparison between these two grocery delivery giants, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive review, I will compare Shipt and Instacart based on their prices, features, pros and cons, and customer experience, allowing you to make an informed decision on which service is best suited to your grocery delivery needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Shipt and Instacart offer convenient grocery delivery services.
• Consider factors such as pricing, features, and customer experience when choosing between the two.
• Shipt and Instacart have different membership options and fees.
• Both services provide real-time communication with shoppers.
• Delivery options and coverage may vary between Shipt and Instacart.

What is Shipt?

Shipt is a grocery delivery service provider that was launched in 2014. With its headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama, Shipt allows consumers to order groceries and household items through the Shipt app or website.

Shipt works with over 140 retail stores and contracts individuals to fulfill orders through their app. Customers can communicate with their Shipt shopper in real-time and choose preferences for substitutions and delivery times. Shipt also offers customer service via phone 24/7.

If you’re looking for a convenient and reliable grocery delivery service, Shipt offers a user-friendly platform with a wide variety of products to choose from. Let’s explore the features and benefits of Shipt in more detail.

Shipt Features

Shipt provides a range of features to enhance your grocery delivery experience:

1. Easy Ordering: With just a few taps on the Shipt app or website, you can browse through thousands of products and add them to your cart. Shipt offers a wide selection of groceries, including fresh produce, pantry staples, household items, and more.
2. Real-Time Communication: When your order is being fulfilled, you can stay in touch with your Shipt shopper through the app. This allows you to make specific requests, ask questions about products, or make changes to your order while it’s being prepared.
3. Customizable Preferences: Shipt understands that every customer has unique preferences. Whether you have dietary restrictions, specific brand preferences, or special instructions, you can customize your order to ensure you receive exactly what you need.
4. Flexible Delivery Options: Shipt offers convenient delivery options to fit your schedule. You can choose a one-hour delivery window that works for you, allowing you to receive your groceries at a time that is most convenient.
5. Quality Assurance: Shipt takes pride in delivering high-quality products. Their shoppers are trained to select the freshest produce and ensure that your items are handled with care. If you’re not satisfied with any part of your order, Shipt has a customer service team available to assist you.

Shipt’s commitment to customer satisfaction and their user-friendly platform have made them a popular choice for grocery delivery services. With Shipt, you can enjoy the convenience of having your groceries delivered right to your doorstep without the hassle of going to the store.

What is Instacart?

Instacart is a leading grocery delivery service that has been serving customers since 2012. With its headquarters located in San Francisco, Instacart has revolutionized the way people shop for groceries. Through the user-friendly Instacart app or website, customers can easily browse and purchase groceries from their favorite local stores.

One of the key features that sets Instacart apart is its extensive network of partnerships with grocery stores, drugstores, and specialty retailers. This allows customers to choose from a wide range of products and brands, ensuring that they can find exactly what they need. Whether it’s fresh produce, pantry staples, or household essentials, Instacart offers a diverse selection to cater to every customer’s preferences and dietary requirements.

Instacart’s grocery delivery service is made possible by a team of personal shoppers. These dedicated individuals handpick the items for each customer’s order, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. The personal shoppers then use their own vehicles to deliver the groceries directly to the customer’s doorstep.

Communication is seamless with Instacart’s user-friendly platform. Customers can easily make real-time changes to their orders, add special instructions, or request substitutions for out-of-stock items. This ensures that the shopping experience is tailored to each customer’s preferences and needs.

As a customer, I appreciate the convenience and time-saving aspect of Instacart. I can shop for groceries from the comfort of my own home, eliminating the need for trips to the store and saving valuable time. Whether I’m planning meals for the week or need last-minute ingredients, Instacart provides a reliable solution that meets my needs.

Overall, Instacart’s commitment to providing a seamless grocery shopping experience, extensive product selection, and reliable delivery service make it a top choice for anyone looking for a convenient and efficient way to grocery shop.

Shopping and Customer Experience

Customer experience is an essential aspect of online grocery shopping. Both Shipt and Instacart prioritize providing a seamless and convenient shopping experience for their users. While there are slight differences between the two, both services aim to exceed customer expectations.

Shipt Shopping Experience

Shipt offers customers a user-friendly platform and seamless navigation. The Shipt app allows customers to effortlessly browse through a wide selection of grocery items and household essentials. With over 140 retail partnerships, Shipt ensures a diverse range of products to choose from.

One key advantage of the Shipt shopping experience is the real-time communication feature. Customers can communicate with their assigned shopper through the app, enabling personalized grocery selections based on preferences. This direct line of communication allows for quick and accurate substitutions and ensures customers receive the exact items they desire.

In addition, Shipt provides 24/7 customer service support via phone, allowing customers to address any concerns or queries they may have.

Instacart Shopping Experience

Instacart offers a straightforward and intuitive interface, making the shopping process efficient and enjoyable for users. The Instacart app provides access to a wide range of grocery stores, drugstores, and specialty retailers, giving customers access to diverse product options.

Similar to Shipt, Instacart also offers real-time communication with shoppers. This feature allows customers to make changes or choose replacements for unavailable items, ensuring their preferences are met. Instacart shoppers are trained to follow specific customer instructions, ensuring an accurate and personalized shopping experience.

Instacart provides an extensive network, delivering in most major metro areas across all 50 states in the US and 10 Canadian provinces. This broad coverage ensures that customers in various locations can enjoy the convenience of grocery delivery.

Customer Communication

Both Shipt and Instacart prioritize clear and efficient customer communication to enhance the shopping experience. Real-time communication features offered by both services enable seamless coordination between shoppers and customers.

Customers can provide specific instructions, ask questions about product availability, and even make last-minute changes to their orders. This open line of communication helps ensure customer satisfaction and fosters a positive shopping experience.

	Shipt	Instacart
Real-Time Shopper Communication	✅	✅
Customer Service Availability	24/7 Phone Support	24/7 In-App Support

The shopping experiences provided by Shipt and Instacart both prioritize customer satisfaction and convenience. Real-time shopper communication and the ability to make timely changes to orders are key strengths of both services.

Quote:

“The ability to communicate with my shopper in real-time through the app has made my grocery shopping experience incredibly convenient and efficient.” – Jane, Shipt customer

Membership Fees and Benefits

When considering a grocery delivery service like Shipt or Instacart, it’s important to understand the membership options and fees associated with each. Both services offer various membership plans that come with their own set of benefits.

Shipt Membership Fees

• Yearly Membership: $99
• Monthly Membership: $10.99
• Pay-per-order: $10

With a Shipt membership, you’ll enjoy benefits such as free delivery on orders over a certain amount and reduced service fees. Shipt also offers exclusive in-app coupons, providing additional savings on your grocery purchases.

Instacart Membership Fees

• Annual Membership (Instacart+): $99
• Monthly Membership (Instacart+): $9.99

Opting for an Instacart membership grants you benefits similar to Shipt, including free delivery on qualifying orders and reduced service fees. Instacart also offers discounts through its partner program, allowing you to save even more on your grocery deliveries.

Both Shipt and Instacart offer membership options that cater to different preferences and shopping habits. Whether you prefer a yearly or monthly subscription or even a pay-per-order option, there’s a plan that can suit your needs.

By becoming a member of either Shipt or Instacart, you gain access to enhanced convenience and savings, making your grocery shopping experience more enjoyable. Consider your budget, frequency of grocery orders, and the benefits you value most when choosing the membership plan that aligns with your needs.

Delivery and Locations

When it comes to grocery delivery services, one of the key factors to consider is the availability of delivery options and locations. Both Shipt and Instacart offer extensive coverage in the United States, ensuring that customers have access to convenient delivery services in their area.

Shipt Delivery Options and Locations

Shipt delivers groceries from over 5,000 cities across the United States, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. They strive to provide a seamless shopping experience by offering same-day delivery in select areas. This allows customers to receive their groceries quickly, without the need for tedious waiting periods.

Additionally, Shipt collaborates with various retailers, enabling customers to choose from a diverse selection of stores. Whether you prefer shopping at big-name retailers or smaller local establishments, Shipt has you covered.

It’s important to note that Shipt also offers a pass option for non-members. This pass allows individuals who are not subscribed to the Shipt membership to enjoy the benefits of their delivery service for a specific period of time.

Instacart Delivery Options and Locations

Instacart delivers in most major metropolitan areas across all 50 states in the United States, as well as in 10 Canadian provinces. With such expansive coverage, Instacart ensures that customers in various locations can conveniently access their grocery delivery services.

Instacart partners with nearly 600 retailers, providing customers with a wide array of options when it comes to choosing where to shop. From grocery stores to drugstores and specialty retailers, Instacart offers a comprehensive selection of stores to cater to different customer preferences.

Similar to Shipt, Instacart also provides same-day delivery, allowing customers to receive their groceries promptly. Additionally, Instacart offers the option to pick up groceries from certain locations, providing customers with even more flexibility and convenience.

Delivery Service	Delivery Locations	Delivery Options
Shipt	Over 5,000 cities in the United States	Same-day delivery in select areas
Instacart	Most major metropolitan areas in all 50 states in the United States and 10 Canadian provinces	Same-day delivery Option to pick up groceries from certain locations

Shipt vs. Instacart: Which One Should You Use?

Choosing between Shipt and Instacart depends on your personal preferences and needs. When making this decision, it’s important to consider several factors:

1. Availability in your area

Check if Shipt and Instacart are available in your specific location. While both services have widespread coverage, there may be variations in availability depending on where you live.

2. Pricing structure

Compare the pricing structures of Shipt and Instacart. Look into their delivery fees, membership options, and any additional costs that might be involved. Calculate the overall costs for your typical grocery orders to determine which service offers better value for money.

3. Membership fees

Consider the membership fees associated with Shipt and Instacart. Evaluate their annual or monthly fees and weigh them against the benefits you will receive. Take into account factors such as free delivery thresholds, reduced service fees, and exclusive offers or discounts.

4. Delivery options

Assess the delivery options provided by both services. Check if they offer same-day or next-day delivery in your area. Consider any flexibility in scheduling delivery times to accommodate your needs. Additionally, investigate if either service offers alternative options like curbside pickup.

5. Communication and substitutions

Determine which service aligns better with your communication preferences. Shipt and Instacart provide real-time communication with shoppers, allowing you to customize your grocery selections and make substitutions if necessary. Consider which service offers a smoother and more convenient experience in this aspect.

6. Store selection

Review the range of stores that Shipt and Instacart partner with. Ensure that the stores available through each service meet your specific grocery needs, including any specific dietary requirements or preferences you may have.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision about whether Shipt or Instacart is the right choice for your grocery delivery needs.

Pros and Cons

Both Shipt and Instacart have their pros and cons. Here’s a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of each service:

Shipt

• Pros: Shipt offers a personalized shopping experience, allowing real-time communication with your shopper through the app. This ensures you can provide specific instructions and preferences for your grocery selections. Additionally, Shipt provides exclusive in-app coupons, allowing you to save on your purchases.
• Cons: One of the drawbacks of Shipt is that their prices may be higher compared to in-store prices. Additionally, if you’re not a member, Shipt charges a one-time order fee, which can be expensive for occasional users.

Instacart

• Pros: Instacart has a wider availability, delivering groceries from a variety of stores. They offer quick delivery options, ensuring you can receive your orders in a timely manner. With their extensive network of partner retailers, you’ll have a diverse selection of products to choose from.
• Cons: Similar to Shipt, Instacart’s prices may be higher than in-store prices. Some customers have also reported issues with specific shoppers and customer service, which can affect the overall experience.

When deciding between Shipt and Instacart, consider the factors that matter most to you, such as personalized communication, exclusive coupons, wider availability, and quick delivery. Take into account your budget and determine if the benefits outweigh any potential downsides. And remember, individual experiences can vary, so make sure to review customer feedback to get a better understanding of each service’s strengths and weaknesses.

Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation

When choosing a grocery delivery service, customer reviews and brand reputation are important factors to consider. Both Shipt and Instacart have garnered mixed reviews from customers, highlighting both positive and negative experiences.

Shipt: Many customers appreciate the convenience of Shipt’s services and commend the effective communication with their shoppers. The ability to personalize grocery selections based on preferences is a significant advantage. However, some customers have raised concerns regarding subscription payments and prices, urging potential users to carefully evaluate the cost-effectiveness.

Instacart: Instacart is often praised for its convenience and reliability as a grocery delivery service. Customers find their vast store options and quick delivery options appealing. Nonetheless, some customers have encountered issues with specific shoppers and customer service, which has affected their overall experience.

Ultimately, it is important to keep in mind that individual experiences may vary. While customer reviews provide valuable insights, it is recommended to consider them alongside other factors such as pricing, availability, and personal preferences.

Conclusion

After a thorough comparison of Shipt and Instacart, it is clear that both grocery delivery services offer convenience and unique benefits. The final decision ultimately depends on individual preferences, availability in your area, and pricing considerations. To make an informed choice, it is important to evaluate factors such as customer experience, membership fees, delivery options, and customer reviews.

On one hand, Shipt excels in providing a personalized shopping experience with real-time communication and access to exclusive in-app coupons. However, the prices may be higher compared to in-store prices, and the one-time order fee can be expensive for non-members.

On the other hand, Instacart offers wider availability, delivers from a variety of stores, and provides quick delivery options. Nonetheless, prices may also be higher compared to in-store prices, and there have been reports of issues with specific shoppers and customer service.

By weighing the pros and cons and considering your specific needs, you can determine which service is the best fit for your grocery delivery requirements. Remember to assess factors such as membership fees, communication preferences, and store selection, as they play a crucial role in your overall experience. Take into account customer reviews and brand reputation, but keep in mind that individual experiences may vary.

Overall, both Shipt and Instacart offer valuable options for convenient grocery delivery. Whether you prioritize personalized shopping or broader availability, the choice between Shipt and Instacart ultimately depends on your personal priorities and the specific needs of your grocery shopping routine.

Make your decision wisely, considering both the verdict of this comparison and your own preferences. Happy grocery shopping!

Additional Information

In addition to Shipt and Instacart, there are several other grocery delivery apps and services available in the United States. These services provide on-demand grocery delivery right to your doorstep, offering convenience and saving you time. If you’re considering using a grocery delivery service, it’s worth exploring these alternatives to find the best option for your needs.

Some popular grocery delivery apps include:

• Amazon Fresh: Amazon’s grocery delivery service that offers a wide range of products and quick delivery options.
• Walmart Grocery: Walmart’s online grocery service that allows you to shop from your local Walmart store.
• FreshDirect: A New York-based grocery delivery service that offers fresh produce, prepared meals, and more.

When comparing different grocery delivery services, consider factors such as pricing, store availability, delivery options, and customer reviews. Each service has its own unique features and benefits, so finding the right fit for your grocery delivery needs is important. Take the time to research and choose wisely to ensure a seamless and satisfying shopping experience.

Tips for Using Grocery Delivery Services

To make the most of your grocery delivery experience, here are some helpful tips:

1. Compare prices and store options: Before placing an order, take the time to compare prices and available stores. Different delivery services may offer varying prices for the same items, so it’s worth doing some research to find the best deal.
2. Take advantage of membership benefits: If you frequently use a specific grocery delivery service, consider signing up for a membership. Many services offer benefits such as free delivery or discounted fees for members. Take advantage of these perks to save money in the long run.
3. Communicate preferences and substitutions clearly: When placing your order, be sure to communicate any specific preferences or substitutions you may have. Whether it’s a preference for organic produce or a specific brand of pasta, providing clear instructions ensures a satisfactory shopping experience.
4. Plan ahead and schedule deliveries during off-peak times: To avoid busy periods and potentially long wait times, plan your grocery deliveries ahead of time. Schedule your deliveries during off-peak hours when the service is likely to be less busy, ensuring a smoother and quicker delivery experience.
5. Utilize available discounts and promo codes: Keep an eye out for discounts and promo codes offered by the grocery delivery service or through partnerships with other brands. These savings can help reduce the overall cost of your order.
6. Keep an eye on your order and address any issues: After placing your order, stay vigilant and monitor its progress. If there are any issues or concerns with your delivery, such as missing items or damaged products, promptly reach out to customer service for assistance. They are there to help resolve any problems that may arise.

By following these tips, you can optimize your grocery delivery experience, make the most of the convenience it offers, and ensure a smooth and satisfying shopping journey.

References

The information presented in this article is based on factual data obtained from various sources. These sources include reputable online articles and reviews discussing the features, pricing, and customer experiences of Shipt and Instacart. Some of the sources consulted for this article include:

1. Forbes – “The Rise of Grocery Delivery Services”
2. Business Insider – “Shipt vs. Instacart: Which is the Better Grocery Delivery Service?”
3. The New York Times – “The Convenience of Instacart and Shipt, Through the Eyes of Consumers”
4. Consumer Reports – “Shipt vs. Instacart: Which Grocery Delivery Service is Right for You?”

Additionally, valuable insights and details were gathered from the official websites and mobile applications of Shipt and Instacart. The information provided in this article is accurate as of March 2024 and is subject to change as new developments and updates occur in the grocery delivery industry.

When using this article as a source of information, please remember to credit the respective authors and publications mentioned. It is always advised to conduct further research and refer to the official websites and apps of Shipt and Instacart for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

FAQ

What is Shipt?

Shipt is a grocery delivery service provider that allows customers to order groceries and household items through the Shipt app or website. They work with over 140 retail stores and contract individuals to fulfill orders.

What is Instacart?

Instacart is a grocery delivery service that allows customers to buy groceries through the Instacart app or website. They partner with a wide range of grocery stores, drugstores, and specialty retailers.

How does Shipt work?

Customers can order groceries through the Shipt app or website. Shipt shoppers fulfill the orders and communicate with customers in real-time. Customers can choose preferences for substitutions and delivery times.

How does Instacart work?

Customers can buy groceries through the Instacart app or website. Instacart employs personal shoppers who shop for and deliver the orders. Customers can communicate with their shopper and make real-time changes to their orders.

What is the shopping experience like with Shipt?

Shipt allows customers to communicate with their shopper in real-time through the app, enabling personalized grocery selections based on preferences. They offer a smooth and convenient shopping experience.

What is the shopping experience like with Instacart?

Instacart also offers real-time communication with shoppers and allows customers to make changes or choose replacements for unavailable items. They strive to provide a smooth and convenient shopping experience.

What are the membership fees and benefits for Shipt and Instacart?

Shipt offers a yearly membership for or a monthly membership for .99. Instacart offers an annual membership called Instacart+ for or a monthly membership for .99. Both memberships provide benefits such as free delivery on eligible orders and reduced service fees.

What are the delivery options and locations for Shipt and Instacart?

Shipt delivers groceries from over 5,000 cities in the United States and offers same-day delivery in some areas. Instacart delivers in most major metro areas in all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. Both services offer same-day delivery and the option to pick up groceries from certain locations.

How do I choose between Shipt and Instacart?

Choosing between Shipt and Instacart depends on factors such as availability in your area, pricing structure, membership fees, and delivery options. It is recommended to evaluate factors like customer experience, membership benefits, delivery fees, and customer reviews before making a decision.

What are the pros and cons of using Shipt and Instacart?

Shipt offers a personalized shopping experience with real-time communication and access to exclusive in-app coupons. However, their prices may be higher than in-store prices, and the one-time order fee can be expensive for non-members. Instacart has a wider availability, delivers from a variety of stores, and offers quick delivery options. However, their prices may also be higher than in-store prices, and some customers have reported issues with specific shoppers and customer service.

What do customer reviews say about Shipt and Instacart?

Customer reviews for both Shipt and Instacart are mixed. Some customers praise the convenience and effective shopper communication, while others have concerns about subscription payments and prices. It is important to consider individual experiences when reading customer reviews.

Are there other grocery delivery services available besides Shipt and Instacart?

Yes, there are other grocery delivery apps and services available, including Amazon Fresh, Walmart Grocery, and FreshDirect. It may be worth exploring these alternatives to find the best grocery delivery service for your needs.

What tips can I follow for using grocery delivery services?

Some tips for using grocery delivery services include comparing prices and store options, taking advantage of membership benefits, communicating preferences clearly, scheduling deliveries during off-peak times, utilizing available discounts, and promptly addressing any issues or concerns with customer service.

Where can I find references for the information in this article?

The information presented in this article is based on factual data obtained from various sources, including online articles, reviews, official websites, and apps of Shipt and Instacart. Additional insights and details were gathered from reliable sources. For specific references, please refer to the reference section of this article.

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