The world of online grocery shopping is booming, with sales in the US predicted to hit nearly $190 billion by 2024. It’s no wonder, given how handy it is to have your groceries delivered right to your door. If you’re looking for a way to make some extra cash, delivering groceries could be a great option. You can often earn more than minimum wage and set your own hours.
One of the top platforms for this is Shipt. They’re always on the lookout for delivery workers, so you can get started quickly. Shipt was founded in 2014 and has quickly become the fastest-growing grocery delivery service in the US. They were bought by Target in 2017 and now operate in over 5,000 cities across the country. They’re known for their speedy delivery times, including same-day orders from Target, and they even deliver alcohol and prescriptions.
As a Shipt Shopper, you’ll be responsible for buying and delivering groceries to Shipt members. You’ll manage the whole process through the Shipt app. You’ll schedule your shifts and accept orders through the app. You can plan your schedule up to a week in advance, but you can also set it on the same day you want to work.
Once you’ve accepted an order, you’ll see information about the closest store to you, the delivery address, and the number of items in the order. If the order doesn’t clash with any other deliveries you have planned, you can claim the job.
When shopping for a Shipt member, you’ll need to pay close attention to any special requests or substitution preferences. It’s important to get the order right to ensure a positive review and potential tips. Once you’ve found an item, you’ll add it to your cart and cross it off the list in the Shipt app.
After you’ve finished shopping, you’ll check out using your prepaid Shipt card and then deliver the order. The Shipt app provides GPS navigation to help you find the delivery address. Once the member has their groceries, you’ll end the delivery in the Shipt app.
Shipt shoppers are independent contractors and earn a delivery fee (plus any tips) for each order they complete. The company pays via direct deposit every Friday for orders from the previous Monday through Sunday. According to Shipt, orders typically take one hour to complete and can pay more than $20 each. However, your speed and performance can also impact your hourly rate and how much you earn in tips.
If you’re interested in becoming a Shipt Shopper, the requirements are similar to other gig economy jobs. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid US driver’s license and auto insurance, have a reliable, newer vehicle, have knowledge of grocery store produce and products, be capable of lifting 45 pounds, and have a later-model iOS or Android smartphone.
The application process is relatively simple and only takes a few minutes. You’ll provide some basic information about yourself, and then Shipt will send out a confirmation email within one to two business days. If you pass this first step, there are several additional steps to become eligible to work.
Working as a Shipt Shopper can be a great way to earn extra money. However, it’s important to understand the implications of working as an independent contractor. Shipt pays well, but your expenses aren’t covered. Furthermore, you’re responsible for accurately reporting your income and paying income tax and possibly self-employment tax. But as long as you provide stellar customer service and work on optimizing your delivery skills to complete orders accurately and quickly, working as a Shipt Shopper offers plenty of opportunity to make extra money.
