If you’re a smart Instacart user, you must have been relishing the unparalleled convenience of ordering groceries from the comfort of your home and getting them delivered straight to your doorstep. However, nothing comes for free, and convenience always comes at a cost, and Instacart is no exception to this universal truth. The app is laced with several concealed fees that can ambush you with surprise expenses, so it’s crucial to unravel their veil and comprehend what they entail to avoid burning a hole in your wallet. In this guide, we reveal five hidden fees that you must know about:
1. Same-day Orders Surcharge: Is Your Impatience Costing You More?
Although Instacart Plus subscribers relish free delivery on orders exceeding $35, they may still have to shell out additional money for the same-day delivery option. Non-Plus members are subject to a $4 surcharge for same-day orders exceeding $35, in addition to the app’s $10 delivery minimum.
2. Long-distance Delivery Tax: Distance Matters, More So For Your Pocket
If your delivery driver needs to travel an extended distance to reach you, you may observe a long-distance service fee sneaking up on your bill. This fee is applicable to both Plus and non-Plus members and is typically levied for orders that originate from a location 30 minutes or more away or require the driver to pass through a toll.
3. Rush-hour Delivery Premium: Prioritize Your Time or Money?
If you opt for a “priority delivery window” at checkout, brace yourself to bear an additional premium charge. This surcharge applies to all customers and permits you to select shorter delivery windows, usually within an hour. However, the fee may fluctuate based on shopper availability in your area.
4. Heavy Items Toll: Are You Paying More for Your Fitness?
If your order includes hefty or bulky items, such as multiple packs of soda or cases of water, you may need to bear the brunt of a heavy items fee. This fee is detached from delivery and shipping fees and applies to orders estimated to weigh 50 pounds or more. Instacart alerts you before placing the order of the fee and highlights the items that are adding to it. You can adjust the quantities to decrease or eliminate the cost.
5. Service Charge: The Ultimate Arch-villain in Disguise?
The service charge is the most ubiquitous cost that you’ll encounter on your Instacart invoice. It encompasses a gamut of charges, ranging from alcohol service fees to pickup fees. However, it’s important to note that this fee is not remitted to your shopper or delivery driver, but only the tips do. Service charges are variable and dependent on several factors, such as location and the number and types of items in your cart.
It’s worth noting that being an Instacart Plus member can help you save money on delivery fees in some scenarios. Nevertheless, in most situations, all customers must pay the same fees. By comprehending the fee structure associated with Instacart, you can make informed decisions and prevent getting blindsided by unforeseen costs.
Alternative Hacks to Save on Delivery Fees: Pay Less, Save More
While Instacart has its fair share of fees, there are several methods to decrease delivery costs. For instance, you can evade delivery fees altogether by opting for a delivery time that’s a few days in advance. Additionally, you can consider signing up for Instacart Express, which waives the delivery fee for same-day orders exceeding $35 and offers free delivery on all orders above $35.
Another viable option to contemplate is using a different grocery delivery service. Some services, such as Amazon Fresh and Shipt, offer lower delivery fees or even free delivery with a subscription.
The Bottom Line: Decipher the Fine Print to Save Money
Instacart has revolutionized grocery shopping, but its fees can eat into your budget if you’re not careful. By understanding the different fees associated with Instacart, you can make informed choices and avoid unexpected expenses. Moreover, by applying the alternative strategies to minimize delivery costs, such as selecting a delivery time in advance, signing up for Instacart Express, or exploring other grocery delivery options, you can keep more money in your pocket while enjoying the convenience of grocery delivery services.
