Welcome to the World of Instacart: A Guide for New Shoppers
Hey there, new Instacart shoppers! If you’re ready to dive into the world of grocery delivery and become a pro at navigating the app, you’re in the right place. We’ve gathered some essential tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Instacart experience and shop like a seasoned pro.
Getting Started: Setting Up Your Instacart Account
First things first, download the Instacart app on your smartphone and create an account. Make sure to fill in all the necessary information, including your address and preferred payment method. Take a moment to explore the app’s features and familiarize yourself with the layout. You’ll find everything from browsing stores to selecting items and scheduling deliveries right at your fingertips.
Choose Your Stores Wisely: Exploring Your Options
Instacart offers a variety of partner stores, ranging from local supermarkets to specialty shops. Take the time to browse through the available stores in your area and select the ones that best fit your needs. Consider factors such as product variety, pricing, and delivery times. Having a few favorite stores in your rotation allows you to mix and match items for the best deals and selection.
Plan Your Orders in Advance: Optimize Your Shopping
Before diving into the app, take a moment to plan your grocery list. Jot down the items you need for the week, organizing them by store or category for easy navigation. Instacart allows you to save favorite items and create custom lists for quick and efficient shopping. Planning ahead not only saves you time but also ensures you don’t forget any essentials.
Explore Deals and Discounts: Saving Money on Your Orders
Instacart often features special deals, discounts, and promotions from partner stores. Keep an eye out for “Sale” tags on items or dedicated sections for discounted products. You can also browse through the “Coupons” tab to clip digital coupons for additional savings. By taking advantage of these offers, you can stretch your budget and get more bang for your buck.
Optimize Your Delivery Times: Choosing the Right Slot
Instacart offers different delivery windows to choose from, ranging from same-day delivery to scheduling days in advance. Consider your schedule and availability when selecting a delivery time. If you’re flexible, opting for off-peak hours can sometimes lead to lower delivery fees. Keep in mind that popular delivery times may fill up quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Communicate with Your Shopper: Special Requests and Substitutions
During the shopping process, your Instacart shopper may need to make substitutions for out-of-stock items. To ensure you get what you need, make use of the chat feature to communicate any preferences or special requests. For example, if you prefer green apples over red, let your shopper know. Being clear and specific helps your shopper make the best choices on your behalf.
Review Your Order Before Checkout: Double-Check for Accuracy
Before finalizing your order, take a moment to review your cart and make any necessary adjustments. Ensure that all the items on your list are included and quantities are correct. Double-check delivery details such as address and preferred delivery time. This step helps prevent any surprises and ensures a smooth delivery experience.
Tip Your Shopper: Showing Appreciation for Their Service
After your order is delivered, don’t forget to tip your Instacart shopper for their hard work and excellent service. While tips are not required, they are greatly appreciated and serve as a thank-you for their efforts. You can add a tip directly through the app, and the full amount goes to your shopper. A little gesture of appreciation goes a long way in supporting your shopper’s work.
Stay Updated with Notifications: Track Your Delivery
Instacart provides real-time updates on the status of your order through notifications. You’ll receive alerts when your shopper starts shopping, when they’re on their way to deliver, and when your order has been completed. Keep an eye on these notifications to stay informed and plan accordingly. You can also track your shopper’s progress directly in the app.
Learn from Each Experience: Refining Your Instacart Skills
As you gain more experience with Instacart, you’ll discover what works best for you and your shopping needs. Take note of which stores have the best selection, which delivery times suit your schedule, and which items are must-haves on your list. Every order is a learning experience, and with each one, you’ll become a more efficient and savvy Instacart shopper.
Ready to Shop Like a Pro?
There you have it, new Instacart shoppers—essential tips to navigate the app like a seasoned pro and make the most of your grocery delivery experience. With a bit of planning, communication, and savvy shopping, you’ll soon be breezing through your grocery lists and enjoying the convenience of Instacart. So, fire up the app, start exploring, and get ready to shop like a boss! Read more about tips for new instacart shoppers