Instacart, popular for its ultimate convenience, hosts millions of users. But it’s also known for being a pricier way to get groceries. We break down everything running up your Instacart receipt below, as well with how to reduce those costs.

Is there a fee to use Instacart?

Instacart is free to use as a platform, but includes extra fees for free users. And even with free delivery, Instacart’s additional fees can average around 10.37% of your item total, based on our local usage metrics in Southern California.

Delivery fees

The delivery fee varies based on the retailer, delivery window, and order total. You see the delivery fee when choosing your delivery window at checkout. One-hour deliveries, club store deliveries, and deliveries under $35 may charge more. Instacart+ members get free delivery on eligible orders $35 or more per retailer.

Service fees

Instacart’s service fees start at 5%, but typically run closer to 10% of your subtotal in reality. Service fees don’t apply to pickup orders.

The service fee helps support the Instacart platform and covers a range of operating costs including shopper operations, insurance, background checks, and customer support. The service fee isn’t a tip and doesn’t go to the shopper delivering your order. Service fees vary and are subject to change based on factors like location and the number and types of items in your cart.

Priority fees

Priority fees are optional fees starting at $2 to get sooner delivery times in typically an hour or less.

Beverage container fees & checkout bag fees

Depending on your local government and retailer policies, you may be charged $0.05-$2.00 for checkout bags and bottle deposits.

Long-distance service fees

Instacart charges an extra fee if the delivery route is over 30 minutes or includes a toll road.

Alcohol service fees

Alcohol service fees are typically around 10% of the alcohol item subtotal.

Heavy order fees

The heavy order fee applies when the estimated weight of your order is over 50 lbs, and typically runs from $5-$15.

How much do Instacart’s taxes cost? (and how to lower them)

There are several components to grocery taxes in the United States. The base amount is sales tax (sales tax rates by state). Some cities levy taxes on sugary drinks as well.

But you can take advantage of sales tax holidays to pay less on your Instacart orders.

How much is an Instacart membership? Instacart+ explained

Instacart’s membership subscription, known as Instacart+, costs $99 annually, but currently offers a free 2-week trial period. The price is subject to tax as well.

The benefits of an Instacart+ subscription include $0 delivery fees on orders of $35+ and reduced service fees. Instacart+ members also receive 5% credit back on eligible pickup orders from participating retailers.

In a cost-benefit analysis? Instacart claims members save on average $7 per order. So if you’re ordering grocery delivery at least every six weeks, it’ll be worth it.

Instacart also partners with other organizations to provide promotions such as:

  • Chase Instacart Credit Card – 5% cashback, 1 free year of Instacart+, and $100 in Instacart credit
  • 1 year discounted rate on Instacart+ for all EBT SNAP holders
  • Discounted Instacart+ and 2 free months for new Costco members

 

Instacart FAQs

Does Instacart have promo codes?

Instacart primarily offers referral codes. For each referral, they’ll get up to $40 credit to use across their first two orders, and you’ll get $10 credit once their delivery is complete. You can refer through text, email or social media using your personalized referral code or link. There is no limit to the number of users you can refer. To get one of these invite codes, ask your friends and family or get a referral code online.

Check Instacart’s promos and coupons section of the website for current offers and promotions.

Find additional available Instacart coupon codes for checkout.

Why is Instacart charging me $99?

You likely activated a trial and forgot to cancel, triggering the annual subscription charge of $99.

Is Instacart more expensive than in store?

Sometimes, the stores themselves will mark up the prices in the app, and store promotions (BOGO deals you see often on price tags) don’t always apply in the app.

Coupled with service fees, this will make shopping on Instacart more expensive than in store, unless you have an effective promo code.

Is it worth it to Instacart?

Instacart is worth it if you take advantage of their current offers, refer friends, buy groceries at least once every six weeks, and occasionally pick up to get that 5% credit back.

Do you need to tip Instacart?

Tipping is optional on Instacart but generally expected. A 10-15% tip is customary to thank your shopper for their service in picking and delivering your items.

Are there hidden fees on Instacart?

Instacart provides transparency on their receipt, but figuring out how the service fee and taxes are calculated can be unclear.