The Most Disrespectful Habits on Instacart, According to Former Shoppers

Instacart is a game-changer. Whether you're unable to hit the store or just want to skip the hassle of weekly grocery runs, having someone else handle it is a real treat.

But using Instacart isn’t as simple as just placing an order and waiting for your groceries to arrive. There are several things you can (and should) do to make life easier for your Instacart shopper.

We’re all familiar with rude behavior in physical stores, but just because you're not walking through the aisles yourself doesn’t mean you're immune to being inconsiderate while shopping via Instacart.

We spoke with ex-Instacart shoppers to learn about the behaviors that customers may not realize are rude—and how to fix these issues to make the experience better for everyone involved.

Failing to Tip Your Shopper

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s always appreciated. Your Instacart shopper is providing a valuable service, and showing gratitude with a tip is a kind gesture.

In fact, many Instacart shoppers will decline an order if no tip is included.

So, how much should you tip? While Instacart suggests a 5% default tip, you can adjust it. Typically, it’s best to tip grocery delivery workers around 15-20%, or more for large or tricky orders.

Instacart gives you up to 14 days after your order to adjust your tip, so you can add a little extra if you feel your shopper went the extra mile.

Naturally, you have the option to adjust your tip if you feel something went wrong. However, it’s considered inconsiderate to lure Instacart shoppers with a high tip just to get them to accept the order, only to lower it without cause after the delivery is complete.

When it comes to tipping, trust your judgment, but try to give your shopper a little extra, even on smaller orders.

Neglecting to Provide Preferred Replacements or Refunds

Given the current grocery shortages, there's a good chance your store won't have everything you requested. That's why Instacart lets you choose a replacement or refund option if an item is out of stock.

Filling out this section helps your shopper know how to proceed if an item is unavailable, making the process smoother for both you and them.

Even something as simple as a brand of paper towels can be confusing for your shopper. They won’t know if you’re fine with a store brand, a different brand, or a variation of the original brand. By selecting a replacement option, you eliminate the need for them to guess or wait for your reply.

This way, you won’t end up with a surprise replacement you didn’t want—like the infamous situation where someone asks for grapes and ends up with raisins because the store ran out.

Providing your preferences for each item might take a little extra time, but in the end, it’s worth it for both you and your shopper.

Ignoring Your Shopper's Messages

This issue is usually resolved by following the tips above, but there will be times when your Instacart shopper really needs to reach out. Whether they’re lost or the store is out of stock on your items, communication is key.

No matter the reason, you should always reply to your shopper. We know you used Instacart to avoid the hassle of grocery shopping, but taking a moment to send a quick reply doesn’t take much time.

Responding promptly makes your shopper's job easier and helps avoid receiving unwanted replacements or even losing your entire order if they can’t locate your address. Keep in mind, even after they’ve finished shopping, they still have the option to cancel your order.

Replying to Messages After the Shopper Is Already On Their Way

It’s great to reply to your shopper, but if they've already left the store, it might be too late. Always try to answer their messages quickly because they won’t hang around waiting for your response for too long.

The app notifies you when your shopper is checking out and heading your way, so if you haven’t responded to their replacement question by then, you’ve missed your chance.

Adding 15 Extra Items While Your Shopper Is Already at the Store

If you’ve forgotten a couple of items, it’s perfectly fine to add them. But adding more than five extra items might be pushing it a bit.

If you really need to add a lot, it’s polite to message your shopper and inform them. If you're planning on increasing the tip for the added items, let them know that as well. After that, it’s up to them whether they want to proceed with the bigger order or cancel it.

However, if you start with a small order hoping the shopper will pick it up, then pile on a bunch of items you knew no one else would want—that’s not cool. For large additions, consider placing a new Instacart order instead.

Providing Unclear Delivery Instructions

Delivery instructions aren’t mandatory, but they can make a big difference for your shopper—especially if you live in an apartment complex or a neighborhood with hard-to-find house numbers. A few details about your front door or even your doormat design can be really helpful.

If you know that GPS tends to take drivers to the wrong address, include that information in the delivery instructions along with guidance on how to reach you. Remember, if a shopper can’t figure out where to go or can’t contact you, they have the option to cancel your order, so be sure to assist them if possible.

Also, if you have specific preferences for where your groceries should be delivered, mention that in the instructions. Shoppers aren’t mind readers, so if you want them to leave the bags inside your garage (because you left the door open), make sure to tell them.

Failing to Provide Essential Delivery Information

Similar to delivery instructions, if there’s other vital information needed for a smooth delivery, make sure your shopper is aware of it.

If you live in a gated community, be sure to provide your shopper with the gate code. If they need to be buzzed into your apartment building, let them know in advance and be ready to assist. Whatever important details are needed, make sure your driver has them to ensure a smooth delivery.

Letting Your Dog (or Kids) Roam Free During Delivery

Your Instacart shopper is already working hard to deliver your groceries. The last thing they need is your dog jumping on them or your kids distracting them.

Remember, they’re a grocery delivery person, not a dog-sitter or babysitter. Keep your dog on a leash or inside, and make sure your kids are inside or supervised while the shopper is completing the delivery.