How to Use the Instacart Delivery Driver App – Make Your First Delivery Easy

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about jumping on the Instacart gig, eh? Whether you’re just trying to snag a few extra loonies on the side, pay off some bills, or maybe just want the freedom to set your own schedule, this guide’s got your back.

Being a driver—Instacart calls it a shopper—is one of those gigs where the hours are flexible and the potential to earn some decent cash is pretty solid. Some days, you might be zipping through downtown Toronto grabbing groceries for busy families. Other days, you could be cruising around Vancouver, enjoying the West Coast vibes while collecting a handful of orders.

Here’s why it’s worth a look:

Flexibility: You pick your own hours. Wanna sleep in on a Monday? Go ahead. Feeling extra motivated on a Saturday? Hop online and grab some orders.

Extra Cash: Between base pay, tips, and occasional promos, you can make some respectable money if you play it smart.

Variety: No two days are the same. Every store has its quirks, every customer has their own requests, and every neighbourhood tells a different story.

Easy Entry: All you need is a smartphone, a car, and the ability to lift groceries. No special licenses or degrees required.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything: how to set up your account, navigate the app, accept orders, shop efficiently, deliver safely, get paid, and even how to handle tricky situations like substitutions or cancellations.

Think of it like sitting down over a double-double at Tim Hortons with a friend who’s already done a couple of runs—relaxed, full of practical tips, and sprinkled with little insights to make your life as a new driver way easier.

Install & Account Setup

Alright, first things first: let’s get your Instacart app up and running. Think of this step as getting your toolkit ready before heading out on your first delivery adventure.

1. Download the App

iPhone user? Head to the App Store.
Android? Google Play is your friend.
Make sure it’s the official Instacart app—look for the green shopping cart icon.

Pro tip: If you’ve got slow Wi-Fi at home, grab a coffee while it downloads; nothing wrong with a little caffeine ritual.

2. Create Your Account

Open the app and tap Sign Up.
Fill in your email, password, and some basic info like your name and phone number.
Choose Driver / Shopper when prompted.

Quick tip: use an email you actually check, because Instacart will send verification codes and updates here.

3. Verify Your Identity

Instacart wants to make sure you’re legit. You’ll likely need to upload your driver’s license and maybe a selfie.
It might feel a little awkward at first, but it’s just part of keeping the platform safe for customers.

Tip: do this in a well-lit room; your phone camera doesn’t need to be professional, just clear.

4. Set Your Location

Enter your city or postal code so the app can show orders near you.
Accuracy matters—pick the area you actually want to work in. Trust me, chasing orders across town is a rookie mistake.

5. Check Device Permissions

Enable notifications so you don’t miss incoming orders—these can pop up fast in busy areas like Toronto or Vancouver.
Turn on location/GPS for accurate navigation. Nothing worse than arriving at the wrong door because your GPS was off.

6. Optional: Explore Settings

Link your bank account to receive payments.
Set your preferences: preferred stores, working hours, and notification settings.
Look through help & support to know where to go if something ever goes sideways.

By now, your account is live, verified, and ready to roll. You’ve got the app on your phone, permissions are set, and you’re ready to hop online. Feels good, right? It’s like stepping into the driver’s seat for the first time, coffee in hand, ready to start your Instacart adventure.

Explore the App

Okay, so your app is installed, your account is verified, and you’re ready to peek inside. Before you start accepting orders, it’s worth spending some time getting familiar with the app’s layout and features. Think of it like knowing your favourite coffee shop inside out—you’ll move faster and avoid awkward moments.

1. Dashboard / Home Screen

This is your mission control. It shows:

Available orders nearby
Current shifts or active hours
Any promos or peak pay opportunities

Quick tip: take a few minutes to scroll through. Knowing what’s available helps you plan your first few orders without panic.

2. Order List

Shows all available orders. Tap an order to see:

Store location
Items to pick
Delivery window
Estimated earnings (base pay + tips + promos)

You can filter by distance, pay, or order size—super handy for newbies figuring out what to accept first.

3. Past Orders & History

See previous deliveries, tips earned, and feedback.
Great for tracking which stores are faster or easier to shop in.
Also helps you plan routes if you do multiple orders in the same area.

4. Earnings & Payments

Check daily, weekly, and total earnings.
Breakdown of tips and promos.
Scheduled payouts—most drivers get paid weekly, but check your app because it can vary.

5. Notifications & Alerts

Turn them on! You don’t want to miss new order requests—especially during peak hours.
Tip: notifications are like that friendly barista calling out your name when your coffee’s ready—ignore them at your own risk.

6. Profile & Settings

Edit personal info, vehicle info, and payment details.
Access help & support if you ever need assistance.
Check preferred stores or working hours here. Small tweaks can save you a lot of time.

7. Promo & Peak Pay

Keep an eye on special promotions or peak pay periods.
Usually during evenings, weekends, or bad weather—like snow in BC.
Smart scheduling here can boost your earnings without extra effort.

Familiarizing yourself with the app at this stage will make your first few runs much smoother. You’ll know where to check orders, see earnings, adjust settings, and spot promos before jumping online. It’s like knowing the fastest route to Timmy’s before hitting the road—saves time and stress.

Turning Shopper Mode On

Alright, now that you know your way around the app, it’s time to go online and start accepting orders. This is the step where your Instacart adventure officially begins.

1. Switch to Shopper Mode

Open the app and tap “Go Online” or “Shopper Mode”.
This tells Instacart you’re ready to see available orders in your area.
Quick tip: make sure your phone has a solid connection—nothing worse than missing an order because of spotty Wi-Fi.

2. Choose Your Shopper Type

Full-Service Shopper: You shop and deliver the order. More work, but higher potential pay.
In-Store Shopper: You only shop; delivery is handled by someone else.
Pick the type that fits your comfort level. First few days? Maybe start smaller.

3. Checking Available Orders

Once online, you’ll see a list of orders with:

Store location
Items to pick
Delivery distance & window
Estimated earnings

You can filter by pay, distance, or order size.
Pro tip: pick orders close to your area at first. Avoid running across town for one small order—you’ll burn time and gas.

4. Tips for Beginners

Start with shorter, smaller orders to get used to the process.
Avoid orders with tons of substitutions until you’re confident.
Keep notifications on so you can snag good orders as soon as they pop up.

5. Safety & Efficiency

Double-check addresses before heading to the store.
Keep your phone charged and maybe a spare bag or gloves handy.
In BC? Enjoy the view but drive carefully, and remember the “no worries, buddy” vibe—stay calm, stay safe.

This step is all about getting online, understanding your options, and making smart choices for your first few orders. Think of it like opening the door to your first shift, coffee in hand, ready to see what the day throws at you.

Receiving Orders

Imagine this: you’re sitting in your car with a coffee in the cup holder, phone buzzing with a new order. This is where things get real—how you review and accept an order can set the tone for your whole day.

1. Order Notifications

When an order becomes available, you’ll get a push notification.
Don’t rush to tap “Accept”—take a moment to check the details carefully.

2. Review the Order Details

Before accepting, consider:

Store Location: How far is it? Is it a quick hop or a longer drive?
Items: How many? Are any items tricky to find or bulky?
Delivery Window: Is it realistic for your schedule?
Estimated Earnings: Base pay, tips, and any promo boosts.

Tip: As a new driver, focus on orders that are close by and reasonable to complete.

3. Accept or Decline

Accept: if the order fits your comfort level and schedule.
Decline: if it’s too far, too large, or has a tight time window.

Remember, it’s okay to be selective—choosing orders you can handle efficiently leads to better deliveries and happier customers.

4. Tips for Beginners

Start with smaller, nearby orders to get a feel for timing and navigation.
Observe peak hours—evenings, weekends, or busy holiday periods often have more lucrative orders.
Use the app’s built-in map to estimate store travel and delivery time.

5. Handling Multiple Orders

Some areas allow batched orders.
Make sure delivery windows don’t overlap; plan your route efficiently.
Think of it like a mini coffee crawl: shortest path, minimal backtracking, and a smooth workflow.

This step is all about choosing the right orders with confidence. By starting smart, your first few deliveries will feel manageable, less stressful, and more profitable.

Shopping & Delivery Process

So you’ve accepted your order, and it’s time to hit the store. This is where the real action begins—shopping efficiently, handling substitutions, and making sure your delivery goes smoothly. Picture yourself cruising through the aisles with your coffee in the cup holder, playlist going, ready to tackle your first shift.

1. Picking Items in the Store

Follow the shopping list in the app closely.
Check brands, sizes, expiration dates, and any special instructions.
Scan items if the app requires it—this keeps everything logged and avoids mistakes.

Pro tip: grab heavy items last so they’re easier to manage when moving to the cart or checkout.

2. Handling Substitutions

If an item is out of stock, message the customer through the app before substituting.
Suggest reasonable alternatives: “The regular oat milk is out—can I grab this one instead?”
Keep communication friendly; polite and proactive messages often lead to higher tips.

3. Bagging Items Efficiently

Use sturdy bags and separate cold items from pantry items.
Place fragile items on top, heavy items on the bottom, liquids standing upright.
Think of it like packing coffee and donuts for a friend: organized and safe.

4. Navigating to the Customer

Use the built-in map or your preferred GPS app.
Double-check the delivery address—some streets, especially in BC, can be tricky to find.
Drive safely and follow traffic rules, even if the customer is waiting. Safety > speed.

5. Delivery & Confirmation

When you arrive, verify that all items match the list.
Some customers prefer contactless delivery—leave the groceries at their door.
Take a photo if required, then tap “Delivered” in the app.

6. Customer Interaction & Tips

A friendly greeting can make a big difference: “Here’s your order, enjoy your day, eh?”
Even short, polite communication can increase the likelihood of better tips.

This step is all about shopping efficiently, communicating clearly, and delivering without stress. Mastering these basics early makes your first few shifts more enjoyable, safer, and more profitable.

Payments & Earnings

After finishing your deliveries, it’s time to talk about the part everyone cares about—getting paid. Understanding how payments work can help you maximize your earnings and avoid surprises.

1. Base Pay

Each order comes with a base pay based on:

Number of items
Distance to the store and customer
Time and effort required

Think of it as your guaranteed slice of the pie before tips and promos.

2. Customer Tips

Tips are added on top of base pay.
Communicate clearly, handle substitutions well, and deliver on time—customers notice and often reward good service.
In Canada, a friendly “Here you go, enjoy your day, eh?” can go a long way.

3. Promotions & Peak Pay

Instacart sometimes offers extra incentives during busy times:

Holidays or weekends
Bad weather or snow days
Evening peak hours

Peak pay shows before you accept an order, so you can decide if it’s worth it.

4. Where Payments Go

Payments are deposited into your linked bank account.
Check your Earnings tab in the app to see:

Base pay
Tips
Bonuses or promotions

Most payouts are processed weekly, but timing may vary by province.

5. Tracking Your Earnings

Use the Earnings section to track:

Daily and weekly totals
Tips breakdown
Completed orders and pending payouts

Tip: Reviewing earnings regularly helps you see which times or areas are most profitable.

6. Pro Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Work during peak hours to get higher base pay and more tips.
Prioritize orders with generous tips or promos once you’re familiar with the workflow.
Complete deliveries efficiently—faster deliveries mean more orders per hour.

This step ensures you know how your earnings are calculated, where the money goes, and how to make the most of tips and promos. It’s not just about working hard—it’s about working smart.

Cancelling Orders

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Maybe a store is out of stock, or something comes up last minute. Knowing how to handle cancellations is key to keeping your driver account in good standing.

Cancelling as a Driver

Tap the order in the app and select “Cancel”.
Choose a reason: store issue, personal emergency, item unavailable, etc.
Only cancel when necessary—frequent cancellations can affect your account standing.

Customer Cancellations

If a customer cancels after you’ve accepted, you’ll get a notification.
Typically, you won’t be penalized for this, since it’s outside your control.
Be aware: some cancellations can impact your daily estimated earnings, so keep an eye on the app.

Fees or Penalties

Drivers rarely get charged for cancellations, but repeated issues may flag your account.
Customers may face a small cancellation fee depending on timing.

Tips for Minimizing Cancellations

Communicate promptly with the customer if a substitution or issue arises.
Avoid accepting orders with high uncertainty (items rarely in stock).
Double-check delivery windows before accepting an order.

Understanding cancellations helps you handle unexpected situations professionally and maintain a smooth workflow. Choosing orders wisely and communicating clearly keeps both you and the customer happy.

Customer Support / Help

Even the most experienced drivers hit bumps sometimes. Maybe an item is missing, the app glitches, or a delivery address is confusing. Knowing how to get help quickly makes life way easier.

Accessing Support

Tap “Help” or “Contact Support” in the app.
Pick the issue type: order problem, payment issue, account question, or technical bug.

Reporting Issues

Missing Items: Include the order ID and the items missing.
Wrong Delivery/Address: Report immediately to avoid complaints.
App Glitches: Screenshots can speed up resolution.

Response Tips

Be clear and specific about the problem.
Include order ID, store, and customer details when possible.
Support usually responds within a few hours, though busy periods can take longer.

Pro Tips

For urgent issues, consider calling Instacart support instead of waiting for chat responses.
Keep all communication logged in the app—helps if there’s ever a dispute.
Maintain a polite, calm tone with customers; sometimes they can help clarify issues too.

Mastering customer support ensures you can handle problems efficiently without stress, keeping your workflow smooth and professional.

Pro Tips for Beginners

Once you’ve got the hang of installing the app, reviewing orders, shopping, delivering, and handling payments, it’s time to level up your game. These are the little tricks and habits that can make your Instacart experience smoother and more profitable.

1. Pick Orders Strategically

Don’t feel pressured to accept every order. Pick ones that fit your schedule and energy level.
Shorter trips near your area can sometimes be more profitable than long-distance orders with small payouts.
Use the app map to plan a mini route: think like a coffee crawl—efficient, no backtracking.

2. Communicate Clearly

Quick, friendly messages with customers go a long way.
If a substitution is needed, offer clear options and wait for confirmation.
Politeness often results in better tips and happier customers.

3. Timing is Everything

Peak hours (evenings, weekends, holidays) usually have higher base pay and more orders.
Try to schedule around your most productive times—know your city’s rush patterns.

4. Stay Organized in the Store

Group items logically while shopping: fragile, heavy, cold.
Scan items as you go to avoid missing anything.
Keep reusable bags ready and handle perishables carefully.

5. Keep Your Car & Gear Ready

Have your vehicle clean and organized for deliveries.
Keep a phone charger, spare bags, and hand sanitizer handy.
Comfortable footwear helps—Instacart can involve a lot of walking.

6. Safety First

Follow traffic laws, drive carefully, and be aware of weather conditions—especially in snowy BC winters.
Trust your instincts when parking or walking in unfamiliar areas.

7. Track Your Performance

Check earnings and order history regularly.
Note which stores are fastest, which neighborhoods tip better, and which types of orders you enjoy most.
Use this info to optimize your shifts and increase your earnings.

These tips help new drivers work smarter, stay safe, and make the most out of their Instacart shifts. Think of it as getting insider advice from someone who’s been on the road a few times—simple habits can make a huge difference.

Closing

So here we are, at the end of your first big dive into Instacart. By now, you’ve set up your account, explored the app, accepted orders, shopped efficiently, delivered successfully, handled payments, dealt with cancellations, and even contacted support when needed. Not bad for a start, eh?

Key Takeaways

Plan your shifts: Choose orders that fit your schedule, distance, and comfort level.
Communicate clearly: Customer messages and substitutions matter—politeness often equals better tips.
Stay organized: Group items smartly, pack efficiently, and check addresses carefully.
Track earnings: Keep an eye on base pay, tips, and peak promotions to maximize income.
Prioritize safety: Drive carefully, watch weather conditions, and be aware of your surroundings.

Motivation & Mindset

Remember, every driver starts somewhere. Mistakes will happen, but they’re just part of the learning process.
Enjoy the freedom of setting your own hours and the variety of customers and neighborhoods you’ll see.
Small habits—like double-checking orders, keeping your car ready, and being friendly—compound into better tips, higher earnings, and smoother days.

Final Thoughts

Instacart isn’t just about making money; it’s about flexibility, efficiency, and learning the ropes of gig work.
Approach each shift like a mini adventure: plan wisely, stay organized, communicate politely, and embrace the freedom.
And don’t forget to enjoy that coffee while cruising—it’s part of the experience.

With this summary, a new driver has a full roadmap from start to finish, equipped with practical tips, safety reminders, and encouragement to make their Instacart journey smooth and profitable.