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To find out more about what it's like to work as an Instacart shopper, we got in touch with Sergio Avedian, Senior Contributor at The Rideshare Guy. He was kind enough to have a chat with Bored Panda and discuss some of the pros and cons of this profession.

"Working as an Instacart shopper offers flexibility and independence, making it an attractive option for those looking to earn extra income on their own schedule," Sergio shared. "Shoppers can choose when and where they work, which is a major perk, especially for those balancing other jobs or personal commitments. The potential to earn tips can also increase overall pay, and for those who enjoy grocery shopping, the job can feel relatively easy."

"However, there are some challenges," Sergio continued. "Earnings can be inconsistent, as they depend on order volume, customer tips, and batch availability. The job also requires using your own vehicle, which leads to gas expenses and wear and tear."

"Some orders can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting or multiple-store trips. Additionally, navigating crowded stores, long checkout lines, and item substitutions can be frustrating," the expert added. "Despite these downsides, many shoppers find Instacart to be a convenient way to earn money on their own terms."

So what kind of person would make a great Instacart shopper? "Someone who is detail-oriented, efficient, and customer-focused," Sergio says. "Strong time management skills are essential, as shoppers must navigate stores quickly while ensuring accuracy with orders."

"Being physically fit helps, as the job often requires lifting heavy grocery bags and making multiple trips to and from a vehicle. Patience and problem-solving skills are also valuable, especially when dealing with out-of-stock items or special customer requests," he continued. "Friendly and professional communication can lead to better tips and higher customer ratings."

On the other hand, Sergio says this job may not be ideal for those who dislike grocery shopping, struggle with time management, or have difficulty lifting heavy items. "People who rely on a steady paycheck might also find the income too unpredictable," he noted. "Additionally, those without reliable transportation may face challenges, as the job requires frequent driving. Overall, Instacart shopping is best suited for self-motivated individuals who enjoy flexible, on-the-go work and interacting with customers."

We were also curious about what customers should know before ordering their groceries to be delivered.

"Before placing an order on Instacart, customers should know that their experience depends on the shopper’s ability to find items, store availability, and communication," Sergio told Bored Panda. "It’s important to be responsive to messages in case substitutions are needed, as some items may be out of stock. Adding specific instructions, such as preferred replacements or 'no substitutions,' can help ensure a smoother experience."

Customers should also keep in mind that tipping is a big part of a shopper’s earnings, Sergio says. "So offering a fair tip for their time and effort is appreciated. Delivery times can vary based on order size, store traffic, and shopper availability, so planning ahead is key. Customers should also double-check their address and order details before confirming to avoid delays or mix-ups."