R
ReviewerVerified
3 months ago
When I get a careful Instacart shopper, everything is perfect, fresh produce, sensible substitutions, on-time arrival. Other times I get bruised fruit or a random swap I didn't approve. It's a genuinely useful service, I just wish the experience were more consistent across different shoppers.
Convenient, good shoppers are excellent
Quality varies a lot by shopper
I assumed I was paying store prices plus a delivery fee, but the in-app prices on Instacart were noticeably higher than the shelf, then came the service fee, delivery fee and the tip on top. A $90 cart cost me well over $120. The convenience is real but the hidden markups soured it for me.
In-app markups plus stacked fees
Instacart has been dependable for my weekly grocery run and the app is easy to navigate with reorder lists. My last order arrived on time and well packed. The one ding is a couple of items were marked found but never made it into the bag, though the refund was quick.
Dependable, easy reordering
Occasional missing items
I love being able to order from multiple stores and the pickup option is handy. But between the service fee, delivery charge and tip, plus the slight price bump on items, it adds up enough that I only use Instacart when I'm really pressed for time. Express membership helps but doesn't erase it.
Multi-store selection, pickup option
Total cost adds up quickly
Instacart let me get a full week's groceries from my favorite local store delivered in two hours while I was stuck at home with a sick toddler. My shopper messaged about substitutions in real time and picked perfect produce. The convenience genuinely gave me my Saturday back.
Fast same-day delivery, great shopper communication