🚗 What Is Shipt?
Shipt is a grocery and retail delivery service that connects customers with local shoppers. As a Shipt Shopper, you’ll receive orders through the app, shop for the items, and deliver them directly to the customer’s doorstep—often on the same day. It’s available in over 5,000 cities across the U.S., and you can set your own schedule.
💼 How Shipt Works as a Side Hustle
- Apply Online and get approved.
- Download the Shopper App and set your availability.
- Accept Orders based on your preferred schedule.
- Shop and Deliver the groceries or household goods.
- Get Paid Weekly via direct deposit.
Some experienced shoppers claim they make $20–$30 per hour, especially when batching multiple orders.
✅ Pros of Working with Shipt
- Flexible Schedule: You can work as much or as little as you want.
- Instant Payouts Available: Great for people who need cash quickly.
- Keep 100% of Tips: Shipt shoppers keep all the tips they earn.
- Low Barrier to Entry: No formal resume or degree needed—just a car, a smartphone, and reliability.
- Good Community: Shipt offers a Facebook group and support channels for shoppers.
❌ Cons of Working with Shipt
- No Guaranteed Pay: Earnings can vary based on location, time of day, and demand.
- Wear and Tear on Your Car: Gas and maintenance come out of your pocket.
- Heavy Lifting: Large grocery orders can be physically demanding.
- Algorithm Uncertainty: Shopper ratings and order access may be influenced by customer feedback and unseen metrics.
- Peak Demand Is Key: Your best earnings come during busy times, like weekends and holidays.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much can I realistically make per week with Shipt?
A: Most part-time shoppers report earning between $150–$500/week, depending on their hustle level, location, and tips.
Q: Do I need a special car or insurance?
A: No special car is needed. However, you do need a valid U.S. driver’s license and auto insurance.
Q: Can I shop in any city?
A: You need to be activated for a specific metro area, but once approved, you may be able to request access to new zones if you move or travel.
Q: When do Shipt shoppers get paid?
A: Weekly via direct deposit, usually on Fridays. Instant pay is available for a small fee.
Q: Do I have to accept every order?
A: No, but accepting more orders may give you priority for high-paying gigs.
📊 Side Hustle Scorecard: Shipt
| Category | Score (out of 10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Earning Potential | 7/10 | $15–$30/hr possible with tips and batching |
| Flexibility | 10/10 | Choose your own hours |
| Startup Costs | 9/10 | No upfront cost besides gas/phone |
| Ease of Use | 8/10 | App is straightforward; some training |
| Sustainability | 6/10 | Can be seasonal; requires consistent effort |
Overall Score: ⭐ 8/10
Shipt is a strong side hustle choice if you have a reliable car, don’t mind grocery shopping, and want full control over your schedule.
🏁 Final Thoughts
If you enjoy shopping, driving, and flexible work, Shipt could be a solid side hustle for you. While it’s not completely passive and requires physical effort, the ability to earn decent money on your own terms makes it a winner for many gig workers. Just make sure to track your mileage and tips for tax season!
Enjoy this article? Check out our post about a similar app, Task Rabbit!