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“I Can’t Make This Up”: 30 Funny, Weird And Annoying Experiences From Instacart Shoppers’ Lives (New Pics)
Interview With Expert
Grocery shopping used to be a fun and exciting experience. I would take my time perusing all of the new products and contemplate what I wanted to make for dinner each night of the week. Nowadays, however, it’s often a stressful game of searching for discounts and deals and trying to spend as little as possible without starving until I have to return to the store.
To make this process slightly less painful, many people opt to have their groceries delivered. But these services can be hit or miss for customers and couriers. We took a trip to the Instacart Shoppers subreddit and gathered photos and screenshots of their most amusing experiences down below. Keep reading to also find a conversation with Sergio Avedian, Senior Contributor at The Rideshare Guy, and be sure to upvote the pics that remind you to always tip couriers generously!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
MVP- Better Believe I Doubled The Tip
I am stuck at home with a toddler and so happy to pay for someone to do my shopping. Look at the bags I was greeted with when I got home! I was giddy.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
I would save these bags, folded in a drawer, for when I was having a bad/sad/frustrating day. Then I would take them out and look at them and smile, knowing that a random stranger cared enough to do something like this for me :)
g90814 10 months ago (edited)
So I wonder if they actually did all this freehand/randomly, or if the bags come that way? Either way, nice.
Tiny Fox 10 months ago
Same. Maybe they have a stack on hand pre-prepared?
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Rich Black 10 months ago (edited)
Wait, what? You can't go to the supermarket with a preschooler? I must be hallucinating when I buy groceries , because I see this all the time
Neopet22 9 months ago
I am sure you can but maybe some people prefer not to.
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Lyone Fein 10 months ago
When someone bags the groceries like this, it makes putting things away so much easier.
RELATED:
#2
Customer Made Me Sob!!
I've never had a customer put this much effort into giving me a review and I've been doing this for over 3 years. I honestly didn't do anything special, it's how I treat all my other customers. It's really refreshing to feel noticed and appreciated. She made not just my day but my whole life lol. I'll be forever grateful.
Pferdchen 10 months ago
Put it in an envelope? That's more like "Frame it and hang it on the wall" material :-)
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Annabel Again 10 months ago
Put this on your fridge girl and also in your bathroom maybe on your door so you can read it before you go out into the world. A copy in your car? Printed on a little card carry in your wallet? Any of these.
Diandra “Mss Didi” Blackthorn 10 months ago (edited)
Erika, can you please come to NYC and shop for Me??????
Remi (He/Him) 10 months ago
Customer gives detailed thanks, Instacart shopper is very happy
Load More Replies... #3
Delivery For Ms. Kitty
Regina Holt 10 months ago
I love this picture. The look on that cat's face, those eyes. Precious.
Barbara Wilcock 10 months ago
Sorry Linda, don't like that anymore. I've locked you out until you find me something else I shall tolerate for a few days
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."
#4
Nicest Thing I’ve Ever Received On Delivery
OzymandiasTheManokit They/Them 10 months ago
we all gotta start doing this
Load More Replies... Diandra “Mss Didi” Blackthorn 10 months ago
I give delivery drivers snacks and water with their tips. It adds a little joy to their days!
#5
This Initial Message
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
The worst thing is that this is a STANDARD message that the Instacart app lets you send to customers. This wasn't written by the shopper. This was written by someone at Instacart. Shudder XD
Emh 10 months ago
I used it once by accident instead of my usual normal greeting and felt so dumb lol
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#6
Customer Left Me An Envelope With Money
Customer messaged me in the app saying there’s an envelope for me. I picked it up and saw this note with a $5 bill inside. Thought it was super sweet and wanted to share.
Geoffrey Scott 10 months ago
I have been cutting grass and moving snow for the same people for a decade or so. One just paid me 50% more than my monthly fee for January ($50 for 5 clearings) Of course I thanked her and told her it was totally unwarranted. Had another self increase their grass cutting by 25%. Even when fuel was $4.00/gal (US) I stayed the same price for everyone. I ain't in it to get rich, or support our household, but it's nice when they notice and are grateful.
ILoveMySon 10 months ago
Wow. I cleared my own snow in the Adirondacks but my friends paid $50 for each plowing. This was also in the 2000s to 2015. You are very kind in your pricing. 🙂
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Mason Kronol 10 months ago
If my Uber is great I tip cash on the side. I think we confused a couple drivers because they refunded our app tip even thou we gave him a 5 star.I have a 4.87 rating that I’m sure is because my first 2 Uber ride in NYC I did not tip because I mistakenly thought you could tip in app. Or cash would be ok , Not at that time🤦🏻♀️ Now Uber drivers appreciate the small app tip, 5 star review and cash tip.
"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."
#7
Got Tipped $70 Bc Neighbors Called The Cops
To make a long story short, Karen neighbor called the cops on me because I was “parked illegally” on the street… I was on the side of the road in a residential neighborhood with my hazards on. Guy I was delivering to came out and talked to the cops with me. When I left I saw the notif that he increased my tip from $8 to $68. Thanks!!
KatSaidWhat 10 months ago
Sounds like Karen needs a "wasting police time" fine.
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Katie Allen 10 months ago
I've been yelled at for where I was parked when I was delivering stuff to an AIDS patient.
Sven Grammersdorf 10 months ago
How'd the cops get there so fast? It takes what, 3 minutes to drop off the delivery?
#8
I Was Supervised On A Delivery This Afternoon
Floeckchen 10 months ago
"So where is the salmon? I don't see a salmon. Do you see a salmon? I don't! Where is the salmon, boy?"
Janelle Collard 10 months ago
"And the treats? I specifically asked for Tasty Treats + I don't see any."
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#9
First Time This Has Happened In 2 Years Of Shopping
I've seen on here so many times where the customer is like "yeah get yourself a drink too" but never had anything even close to that happen until now
zak 10 months ago
Is there such a thing as "unhealthy" rotisserie chicken? It's just chicken and spices, right? 🤔
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OzymandiasTheManokit They/Them 10 months ago
it's awesome to know that there's still good people around :)
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."
#10
I Delivered To A Very Pawlite Customer Today
#11
My Proof Of Delivery Photo
Parmeisan 10 months ago
I see bread there. Hopefully none of them are like my Frost Claw, who once chewed through a plastic bag in order to eat a plain bagel (and take a bite out of several more). Although, I'm not sure if there are any other cats like Frost Claw, or if he only liked bread because he was raised by geese.
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Aidan Pierce 10 months ago
I thought those were raccoons for a quick second but it's just the quality control inspectors
#12
Customer Tipped Me $50 After I Had A Breakdown🥲
During this batch: i ripped my pants when i started shopping, i left my windows down in the rain and hail and somehow i guess i was so stressed i left my car running while i was shopping ??? like have never done that idk what happened. my windows were so foggy and it was raining so hard i couldn’t see very well, the car in front of me didn’t have brake lights and i nearly rear ended them and all the groceries went flying. customer b’s eggs broke and both orders were mixed up and all over the car. i pulled over in the rain and sorted through the groceries for awhile and hoped i got everything right but at that point i couldn’t even see past my tears. i tried to hold it together when i got to the door but was very obviously not ok. i told her about the near accident and how the groceries went flying and apologized but she was just worried about if i was ok. genuinely the kindest customer i’ve ever had. after the second delivery i saw she tipped me $50🥹 she had also messaged me to tell me all her groceries were there and everything was perfect. i told her how much i appreciated it but idk if i could express it well enough through messages. i hope she knows she really made a difference
Zephyr343 10 months ago
I don't want to be one of those people...but 2 hours to decrease tip? Since I don't use it, do they see the tip amount before they deliver? Couldn't they have the tip amount be high then reduce it to zero after it is delivered? I am not familiar with it so I am just asking
Christy 10 months ago (edited)
Customers can and have reduced the tip or changed it to zero. I asked a shopper once. It sucks.
Load More Replies... tee-lena 10 months ago
We've all had those days. I hope she was able to chill out a bit
Load More Replies...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."
#13
Pay May Be Low But This Was A Great Tip
#14
Some People Are Awesome
Bob Connely 10 months ago
We used to put out a rack like this, but stopped after we caught two (different homes) neighbors looting it. Now we have treats inside, next to the specified delivery door, and invite the delivery people to make their selection that way.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
This may come as an absolute shock to you, my friend, but not everyone is able-bodied. Not everyone CAN "leave the house now and then". Many people are elderly, disabled, or have mobility issues. They may have a condition that makes extended trips/exertion risky to them - some examples are seizure disorders, blood sugar disorders, and heart/cardiovascular issues.
Load More Replies... #15
My Favorite Part When Delivering Orders ❤️
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."
#16
This Dog Wouldn’t Let Me Stage The Items LOL
KatSaidWhat 10 months ago
This is where training comes in - will that pack of dog food still be intact in 5 minutes?
#17
One Of The Strangest Orders I’ve Ever Shopped
So I get an order for 18 items for $28 and I take it and then realize it’s like 113 units or something like that. I contemplated canceling but decided to just shop it as quickly as possible. All fruit mind you. $308 worth of fruit to be exact 😆. Turns out the guy ordering sends an order like this to his sister on her birthday every year as a prank. I shopped and checked out fairly quick and get to the house. I start handing bags to the lady and she goes “honey the fruit is here again”. I’m glad I followed through with the order it was definitely worth the laughs and ended up being $48 after tip increase for a bunch of fruit. Hopefully they have a good blender or donate some of this because there’s no way anyone is eating this much fruit. 🍎🍌
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Plus you can freeze a lot of it, especially if you cut it up first!
Load More Replies... Geoffrey Scott 10 months ago
Strawberries and blueberries would be in my freezer almost immediately. I could eat both watermelons in a week or so Cantaloupe freezes too. Orange juice every day? Why yes, yes I will!
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."
#19
I've Now Done It All... Homeless Camp Delivery
I can't make this up...I delivered hot dogs, burgers, POPSICLES, ice cream, donuts, cheesecake, and organic veggies to a homeless camp...
She met me at the railroad track intersection with a pull cart 🤯🤯🤯
Can't make this up.
ॐBoyGanesh 10 months ago
We’ve a very well hidden collective of 20+ women who live on a rather inaccessible shore of state property here on our island. Most locals don’t even know about them and you’d have to do some serious off-trail bushwhacking to come across them. Unless you know of a secret entrance thru a 100 meter thicket. They’ve outdoor solar showers, a kitchen tent, a communal geodesic dome tent & their personal living spaces. Since many areas of our district don’t have water mains (or any infrastructure; mostly off-grid) there are county spigots where folks fill up their 50/100/200 gallon water jugs or tanks. I’ve helped this “intentional community” with hauling water to them, as I’ve a few friends who live there. Many have jobs/careers, but most are artists, musicians, massage therapists & the like. They’ve communal cars parked at a public overlook lot about 1/4 mile down the road. They’re not homeless. Nor do they generally consider themselves unhoused. They’ve chosen this & it’s awesome.
MegDragon 10 months ago (edited)
Friendly reminder that homeless/unhoused people are not necessarily DESTITUTE. They may have odd jobs or other minor income that is enough to afford a phone or even a car. It does not mean that they are lying about their housing status. Phone money does not equal get an apartment money. There are a multitude of factors contributing to these situations. Feel free not to give to anyone you don’t want to, but it’s important not to judge and make assumptions based on a tiny glimpse into lives on the street. Edit: typo “it does NOT mean”
rorschach-penguin 10 months ago
My groceries? $250 a month. My rent? In the thousands.
Load More Replies... tee-lena 10 months ago
Now I know you don't need a specific housing situation for delivery. I'll need it come June😟. I'm disabled, in a chair and will probably be homeless then. Housing is too expensive. Even the non profit organization that provides my housing has to stop helping us
Nikole 10 months ago (edited)
Oh tee-lena! Are there any government programs that can help? Although I think you’re in the U.S. like me…
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#20
Most Heart Wrenching Instacart Order I’ve Had
Gavin Johnson 10 months ago
I’d helped to run a wedding for friends of mine who lived quite a distance away, I arrived home after a couple of days with them for the celebration (and then some spa related recovery 😀) and on my doorstep was a delivery that had a DVD of a film we’d talked about over the weekend, a few beers (to drink whilst watching the film), a huge bag of cashews (a favourite of mine) and a card, written by the delivery driver for my friends saying thank you 😀 and the driver had added a note on the back about the film 😂
Susical 10 months ago
Wow, some BPs are judgy today! Depending on a person's situation, it can actually be really hard to get a card in the mail. For example, I have a disability that can make walking painful. So the hardest part for me is getting the card to an actual mailbox, which is .25 miles away (Some people in my complex will clip their outgoing mail to a fence by our mailboxes, but I'm not super comfortable with that.). That's not very far, of course, but it can be for me. I'm not asking for sympathy for me - but a little empathy for humanity in general would be nice. If everything is that easy for you, then count your blessings.
Regina Holt 10 months ago
Daya Meyer can't imagine someone sending/doing a little something "extra" for an additional surpise. Nowhere here does it say that this is the only greeting she is sending her dad.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Maybe Joni DID send an actual card(s) already, but wanted *another* card to arrive with this delivery. Maybe you could actually have a shred of basic human empathy and sympathy and realize Joni was probably doing her effing best (Joni is ALSO grieving - she lost her mother, please recall.)
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#21
I Drew Up A "Thank You" Card For My Customers
I'm also an artist, so I thought of printing up some thank you cards. They've helped with getting consistent ratings, so I find it worth the occasional sheets of cardstock.
Shelli Aderman 10 months ago
I’m torn, as I’d appreciate a thank you note, but I’m not a fan of folks asking me to rate them all of the stars. 🤔
Sophia Pandia de Delphia 10 months ago
Considering OP wrote "your best shoppers," she wasn't asking for herself only and, while five stars are drawn, she doesn't ask for five or any number at all.
Load More Replies... "While Instacart aims to provide convenience, shoppers are human and do their best to fulfill orders accurately," Sergio added. "Being patient and understanding can make the experience better for both the customer and the shopper."
And if you'd like to learn even more about what it's like to delivery groceries for Instacart, or other similar services, be sure to visit The Rideshare Guy!
#22
I Bearly Made It To This Delivery
Delivered to a gated community here in our little mountain town and was met with this friendly fellow. I think could smell all the yummy groceries in my car, literally walked right towards my car before finally crossing the road.
Notice the bear/deer crossing sign behind him.
Earthquake903 10 months ago
Why don't they move the bear/deer crossing sign to a safer place for these poor animals to cross?! Smh
#23
Trapped In Customer’s Vestibule
rorschach-penguin 10 months ago (edited)
I'd call the fire department or police non-emergency to report that one; it's illegal and a safety hazard. My building requires a key fob like three times to get up to my actual apartment door, but you can always, always go back down to the lobby and then exit through both sets of doors without a key.
dan gerene 10 months ago
Had something similar happen in a hospital set of double doors leaving later after regular hours. Got out the first set when it opened automatically but the second set wouldn't open. Finally read a little sign that you could push the sliding door hard to get out. But a weaker person probably couldn't do it.
#24
Parking Was In Fact Not Free
I get this order, he says it's free parking. His apartment is in a business type plaza with no street parking. I get there and my gut tells me it isn't free. So I ask for assistant at the kiosk (the one that prints your parking ticket to get into the garage) and they tell me it's only free if a business validates my ticket. I ask if tenants can validate and she says no.
How many people did this guy get to pay for their own parking? Once you drive in, you can't leave without paying. Why why why do people do this?
In case you're wondering what happened: I message him and he insists it's free, tries to convince me to go up. Says he always has stuff delivered. I explain I'll try to find parking and get his stuff to him. He becomes hostile about how I don't listen. So I contact support...his order was canceled.
Regina Holt 10 months ago
What was the purpose of the customer being an a$$, lying about the parking being free?
Connie Hirsch 10 months ago
The kind of sociopath who doesn't mind ripping off hard workers because they're lesser people.
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We hope you're enjoying your scroll through these photos, pandas! Keep upvoting the ones that you find most surprising, and let us know in the comments below if you've ever utilized a grocery delivery service like Instacart. Then, if you'd like to check out another Bored Panda list featuring this subreddit, look no further than right here!
#25
Jesus Christ Crystal
Bewitched One 10 months ago
I totally understand crystals anger. They will literally refund my entire order at Kroger sometimes because none of it is in stock, and they’re supposed to notify you of low stock items before check out and sometimes they have the low stock items but not the ones that aren’t flagged as low stock. It’s pretty annoying. (Kroger deliver is through Instacart lol so I imagine this lady ordered from Kroger 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️)
Sara Frazer 10 months ago
Just gotta add I've so far known 3 different women named Crystal/Krystal in my life and they were all horrible rotten garbage jerks
#26
Delivered To An Ice Cream Shop
BlackestDawn 10 months ago
Pretty sure that's (part of?) the tip they got for completing the delivery, not what they delivered.
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Hey! 10 months ago
It reminds me of my mother - I was told, I wasn't born yet - While pregnant, she'd call the taxi service and get Dairy Queen delivered at the house. Both were in different cities. My father was a journalist and was working nights so he couldn't do it himself. She said she gave the same driver $5 each time, which included a hefty tip → that was in the late 1950s early 1960s, depending on the child.
Shelli Aderman 10 months ago
Ah. BP, you might want to add context. The ice cream shop gave this to the driver!
#27
So I Delievered To My Boss.. Surprised $450 Tip
#28
Having A Stare Down With This Peanut Butter
Max Fox 10 months ago
The level of roasting of the peanuts can affect the taste and color, and mistakenly putting salt in unsalted PB also affects the taste. The taste of soy sauce is the beans fermenting, and if some of the peanuts got wet before they were ground, and started fermenting, that could also give the PB a soy sauce like taste.
Janelle Collard 10 months ago
"Wegmans Just Peanuts Stir..." which leads me to believe the ingredients separate + the whole jar needs to be - are you with me here? - STIRRED - before people eat it. Does that sound about right?
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Not everyone has the ability to do so. Many people are elderly, disabled, or have mobility issues. They deserve groceries too, and they deserve to get the ones that they want to get. Note OP was not mean or hostile in the note - and apologized for their pickiness as well.
Load More Replies... #29
Finally Had One Of “Those” Customers
i deliver in this area a lot. it’s a safe neighborhood. why are people so weird lol.
Roxy222uk 10 months ago
Also, what a miserable existence, believing everyone around you is so threatening. I'm so glad I don't feel like this.
Kabuki Kitsune 10 months ago
You live in a neighborhood where the most common thing you hear is either gunshots, police cars, or the sound of someone beating the ever loving c**p out of another person... and tell me that the world around you isn't threatening. Especially when you can't afford to just pack up and move, like you know so many people are going to reply to my comment to do.
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Ace 10 months ago
Because stupid religion too. (Any religion that lets its adherents think it's OK to shoot people is stupid, IMO).
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Gavin Johnson 10 months ago
It’s a 2A / Christian flex, danger or not they’ve declared their love of god and guns. Takes all sorts to make the world go around eh?
#30
Just Lost A $15 Tip For Not Driving Past This Sign
They live about 15 miles from town and messaged me “this is the last time I pre-tip”. Good luck ever getting your groceries delivered again!
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Because a skull and crossbones totally means "Go PAST this sign" - right? /s
Regina Holt 10 months ago
That isn't even a well-used entrance. The grass does not look walked on, no path.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
And at least one giant bit of it partially blocks where it actually says "All Deliveries Here" XD
Load More Replies... #31
Anyone Else Bring A Bud Along?
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
I have two dogs (and five cats at this point...) but still wouldn't bring one with me on a delivery trip, ESPECIALLY with food/grocery items. Even if you put all the groceries in your trunk, you never know if people are highly allergic to dog hair/dog dander, and when you have a dog... that stuff gets everywhere. I would bring my dogs with me everywhere if I could, and I love my pets more than I love most humans, but I still would respect my customers and not create a potential food safety issue or allergy issue by bringing my dog along with me to deliver groceries/food to my customers.
#32
What In The Actual F**k?
She probably thinks we get paid by the hour. She must also think the sun revolves around her... like there's other customers you know?? Plus that won't work...
Disgruntled Panda 10 months ago
Even if it's for a child with a food disorder, a please or thank you would be nice
Jenna Logan 10 months ago
Yeah really a little hospitality goes a long way
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BoredLittleLeafSheep 10 months ago
Instacart won't let the driver just "go to another store". They will cancel the order.
Kali Chaos 10 months ago
How about you do your fkn research for your own fkn kid to see where the item is stocked, and THEN place your order?
Debbie 10 months ago
She probably has a kid with a food disorder or on the spectrum - if it's all your kid eats I can understand this message.
TribbleThinking 10 months ago
I understand the instructions. I don't understand the lack of simple courtesy.
Load More Replies... #33
Awesome Free Score After Cancellation
I did a small, 3 item Sam’s Club shop. Was 2 15lb briskets, some Hot sausage links and a pack of hot dog buns to be delivered to someone’s food truck. Delivery address was about 3.5-4 miles away from the store. Once I got there (a medical campus) I couldn’t find the food truck anywhere. I messaged them asking where exactly there food truck was. The then messaged me a totally different address about 45 minutes away. I told them that and how it’s not the address they listed, they apologized that it was the wrong address, and told me to cancel. I called up IC support and they helped me cancel it. This is about 30lbs and $150 worth of brisket I got for free
#34
This Customer Thought I Was Ringing Her Doorbell?
I had this customer and they were freaking out on me even though i had not arrived yet. This was an alcohol delivery so I got worried about the delivery being face to face.
Rachel Parker 10 months ago
“Bring me my booze! Hurry up! Don’t make any noise, I’m hungover. I need booze! No, I don’t have a problem, why do you ask?”
Kali Chaos 10 months ago
To be fair, I've never been this adamant and rude bc no reason for that, but "Please don't knock or ring bell, leave on porch like a ninja bc I have three large, loud dogs and neither of us want them to wake up. They won't bite or anything, but so loud."
#35
$1m House; $0 Tip
Janelle Collard 10 months ago
You'd be surprised how cheap "rich" people are. Look at #Impeached 45, who got to be Prez *again!* He stiffed the contractors + subcontractors who built his buildings, staff at his homes + businesses, lawyers, etc. He filed bankruptcy *how* many times?
Chuck 10 months ago (edited)
I have balance and mobility issues. I don't tip them specifically because they shopped and delivered for me. I tip them because I very much appreciate that they do this for me. I always hope I have tipped enough and always worry that I haven't. *Disclaimer - mine is very, very far from a $1M house*
Janelle Collard 10 months ago (edited)
I always tip 25% on my Instacart orders cuz I don't want to get a bad reputation with the Shoppers. (Not sure if they compare notes or not, but why take the chance?) I've never had a bad experience with an Instacart Shopper (knock on wood!)
Earthquake903 10 months ago
Then you go shop for people to their exact specifications and drive your personal vehicle across town in winter and carry their things to their door and see how you feel about a tip. Tipping isn't mandatory and so is blocking customers who don't tip without a good reason (like the order was canceled because the store closed or the order was delivered to the wrong address).
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#36
Well, This Was A First…
Mari 10 months ago
I think it would be easier to put on a bathrobe to open the door for strangers
Dirk Daring 10 months ago
I'm a life member of AANR. Nudist etiquette says you put at least a robe on and cover up when you know you are expecting a delivery driver, the plumber, your textile neighbor, etc.
#37
$385 Worth Of Free Groceries
So customer was writing me back while shopping and just completely stopped...I tried calling numerous times to ask about a replacement but no answer. When I arrived to the business location it was closed and nobody answered. Usually I'll leave the items at door but this was a business and it had a wine bottle...called Instacart and they told me to return the wine and keep the rest! $36 order turn into $385 worth of free groceries.
Crystal M 10 months ago
Instacart paid her $36 to complete the order. They do not pay well.
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Kathy Dragonfly 10 months ago
the payment for the order was $36, the stuff they bought was worth $385. If this box full of groceries is however worth more than $300, then the egg prices in the usa are really crazy :)
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#38
Support Cancelled The Wrong Order: Now I Have This
Double order. Order A went through fine. Order B was being declined on payment. Support accidentally cancels order A. Now I have this Lego which is worth 5x what I would have been paid.
Shark Lady 10 months ago
I really want one of these, it looks just like my cat. No money in the budget unfortunately.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Tuxedo cats are the best! I have two! I also have two voids and a gray, but tuxes are my first love XD
Disgruntled Panda 10 months ago
Don't let your voids and grey read this! ;)
Load More Replies... #39
Got Tip Baited
Dude, I was so stoked! Huge Costco order – two orders in a batch one order has some stuff and nine cases of 24-pack zero-sugar sparkling water! Other order had like 13 items, Delivered right to the door, as requested. Then I lugged all that c**p up two flights of stairs (no elevator!), said thanks, and finished the second delivery. But then I saw the pay – the tip was slashed from $170 to $10! All that happiness vanished, man, I was so hurt. I didn't screw anything up. Why would someone do that? I was practically gasping for air carrying all that stuff!
ZombieMommy 10 months ago
That shouldn't be allowed. You should have to contact customer service to decrease a tip because people suck
Gavin Johnson 10 months ago
WTF is zero sugar sparkling water? I hope it’s a marketing gimmick to attract people to their product but I can’t help but think there’s also a sugary sparkling water in the U.S.and that’s bizarre if it’s the case!
#40
Anyone Else Get Bizarre Orders Like This LOL
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
When I worked retail, we had a customer come in that everyone called The Milk Lady. She claimed she was allergic to water and could *only* drink milk (whole milk, of course.) This is what her cart would look like when she would go to check out. DOZENS of bottles of milk. We had no idea how she could drink/use them all before they went over. All of my co-workers hated her because she would chew them out and yell at them if her specific brand she preferred wasn't in stock/didn't have the "correct" expiration dates. She was always nice enough to me (I worked vitamins/supplements but helped out in dairy enough times to encounter her pretty often) but she honestly did smell like spoiled milk. I don't know if it was because she actually truly only did drink milk, or if she had poor personal hygiene, but it was a bit gross.
Firstname Lastname 10 months ago
We have an ice cream shop a few minutes from where our store is, so every day the owner comes and buys about 20 gallons of milk. My vote is milkshakes!
lwolf1952 10 months ago
Definitely a milk bath. Unless they ordered 40 packages of cookies to go with.
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Didn't she bathe in the milk of non-horse equines and not that of cattle, though? XD
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#41
Shopped An Order For My Best Friend Yesterday
#42
This Guy…expects To Be The Only Customer
Shop most of a double order then get a message from this guy asking if he’s the only customer. When he found out I had one other order he threw a hissy fit and demanded to be the only customer to be shopped for. Yes, I was muttering obscenities under my breath as I put his items back.) What is wrong with people smfh (this was just part of the convo I happened to screenshot)
#43
I Hate Lying Customers
What is the point when i have a clear picture of it being the exact item.
#44
You Say Tomato… I Say Wtf???
I can’t tell if the shopper was seriously that clueless or if they think it’s a fun way to mess with customers? The garden center is on the opposite side of the store as the produce… I’m flabbergasted.
#45
Found This Posted On A Local Group
OzymandiasTheManokit They/Them 10 months ago
I like how she keeps on threatening to not tip when the first thing she literally said was, and I quote, "I do NOT tip for these services so do NOT ASK for one in person otherwise I will report you for harassment and call the police immediately."
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#46
Target Tipped Me $10
#47
“Please Leave Inside Fence”
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
I love dogs (and cats!) but I would have to decline, were I the deliveryperson. These puppers might be the sweetest pibbles ever, but they are IN their yard/their territory and they may feel threatened/scared by a stranger walking in (especially with rustling plastic bags!) They might bite out of fear.
Deborah 10 months ago
Or to defend their territory. I'm an animal person, I don't hate a specific breed due to its reputation, but any dog, of any size, in an area that it sees as its territory, is not to be messed with.
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#49
Reported This Guy, Felt So Uncomfortable
#50
Dang Girl What Did You Do
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
Depending on where OP lives and when they usually place their orders, Anastacia might be one of the only shoppers/deliverypersons working in that area at that time. :x
Damned_Cat 10 months ago
I understand this one. I've done Instacart twice in my life and the same woman was assigned each time. The first order had a number of wrong items (i.e. bell peppers instead of green chiles, apple oatmeal instead of maple, etc.). The second order was just missing items that the shopper claimed she couldn't find in the store (really, you couldn't find any mayonnaise?). I later saw her in the store when I went in person and overheard her talking on the phone saying "I'm just buying whatever for this order. I don't have time for this s**t". Never used Instacart again.
#51
Order Was Cancelled As I Was Checking Out
#52
I May Actually Lose My Mind
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
"I was in the store yesterday but couldn't get any of this shopping done myself." (I know a lot of people are disabled or have other mobility issues, but this one doesn't seem like that kind of a situation. Maybe they were in the store too close to closing for the deli/etc. to be open but... )
Belle_Pandamonium🇧🇻l 10 months ago
Or, lying abt have been shopping yesterday- like control issues or smt?
Load More Replies... #53
I Was Delivering My Order When…
Strong wind knocked over the basketball net right on to their truck while I was waiting for the customer. 😳 luckily I never got to see the reaction since the customer never showed up for their order.
#55
Jealous Of My GF 😂
Carl Roberts 10 months ago
Well, like, first, like, you used the word "in", when you, like, meant the word "and".
Jason Peugeot 10 months ago
Not sure why it was felt necessary to mention the race as it has not bearing to the story imo..
#56
"Tip Yourself 5 Dollars"
Takes 5 dollars out of my wallet and puts it back
Thanks I appreciate you!! 😅🤣
Side note didn't see a "funny" flair so used this one guess it works as well.
#57
It Finally Happened
Was trying to deliver an order this morning and the customer had 4 dogs. I couldn’t open my door for almost 5 minutes because the dogs wouldn’t leave the area and I finally open my door and one of the dogs jumps on me and bites my arm. Anyone who’s been in this situation before? What have you done?
Bean Driller 10 months ago
Call the police and report it! Make sure the next shopper knows as well. Ban them or something.
#59
Why Does Instacart Think This Is Acceptable? 🤦🏻♀️
How do they get away with this nonsense? $23 batch pay?? The $44 tip is a joke. The amount of time and work that would require, then to drive it all 40 miles!! I don’t know who’s more delusional, Instacart or the customer?! The water alone roughly weighs 4,350 lbs. I’m dumbfounded.
Regina Holt 10 months ago
This order should not have even accepted by IC. There needs to be a mileage limit, or a guaranteed big a$$ tip that can't be decreased. I understand there might be people living out in the boonies, but there has got to be another way.
Sue Mullen Andersen 10 months ago
There is a Costco in Covington. I think this is just a mistake. No way would they go to Tacoma instead.
#60
My Biggest Order Ever. Just Pick Up At Best Buy
Regina Holt 10 months ago
Is somebody drunk? Such a big tip, and such a specifically odd amount.
Kiss Army 10 months ago
Sometimes people choose a percentage tip. If it was a high priced item from Best Buy, they may have chosen 20-25% tip to get that odd amount.
Load More Replies... #61
*cue Panic Attack*
BoredLittleLeafSheep 10 months ago
And this is where the driver cancels the order because these people never tip.
#62
I Hate These Type Of People
Regina Holt 10 months ago
They should be put on the list of folks to not deliver to. What if nobody comes any time soon? Why couldn't customer go down to get their order?
#64
This A$$hole Has Ordered 629 Times
#65
What Do I Do?
MotherofGuineaPigs 10 months ago
None of my shoppers would have done this. With a somewhat exception, she would bring the groceries in the backdoor right into the kitchen if I was there. She got a kick out of the herd of guinea pigs squealing when they heard the bags.
#66
Well It Finally Happened To Me 😂
LakotaWolf (she/her) 10 months ago
For anyone who may be confused, this is someone who has either stolen an actual customer's login credentials or their credit card and is trying to scam the deliveryperson AND the owner of the account/CC. It's easy for thieves to flip/sell gift cards (which is why they are asking for the Lyft gift card) vs. most actual physical goods.
#67
My First Bad Experience
This lady was constantly sending me messages asking me to send her pictures of the items she wanted to see how they looked, I did not mind. She then started refunding a lot of items so I told her to cancel my order. It was a big order 60 items nothing heavy, 30 items were fruits and vegetables and the store is 1.9 miles away. The tip was $50 plus a paid for fast delivery. Am I wrong for wanting to cancel the order?
Lost Panda 10 months ago
I'm confused... who is the subtitle from... Personal Shopper or the Customer?
Add New Image
What do you think ?
BoredLittleLeafSheep 10 months ago
I used to shop for Instacart. Many people do not seem to understand that shoppers are NOT employees; they are independent contractors using their own vehicles and paying their own overhead costs. The app offers these shoppers a ridiculously low amount (sometimes as little as $5 per order) and the fees they charge the customers do not go to the driver. Imagine spending an hour shopping for someone, then delivering it to the customer's front door for less than $10. They are providing a personal service and deserve to be tipped WELL. And for those screaming "just go to the store yourself", many of my customers were elderly and disabled and rely on services like this. I enjoyed interacting with them, but the wear and tear on my vehicle and the abuse by entitled a******s who refuse to tip made it impossible to continue. If you use these services, TIP YOUR SHOPPER WELL!
Nikole 10 months ago (edited)
I shop through the Mariano’s/Kroger app, so those people are actually employees of Kroger and they deliver everything in a Kroger box truck thing. The app doesn’t even allow tips. Edit: and they shop in a warehouse, not a store.
Load More Replies... Janelle Collard 10 months ago
I LOVE Instacart! They let me be lazy! The older I get, the less effort I want to spend getting ready to go out: style my hair, do my makeup, change my clothes, drive to the store, shop, drive home, put the groceries away, change my clothes, wash my face... Nah!
Lene 10 months ago
I have done shopping in my night shirt and a pair of sweat pants. Lol. But I also only had a 5min walk to the store and back. So it was quick. Haha! I have a cousin who looked at me totally anxious on my behalf when I told her this, years ago. She was like "you didn't even put on a bra!?!?" And I said "nah, I was going right back home to watch TV on my couch. And I didn't plan to score with anybody in the fruit-and-veggies section anyways. So no need to look great.". It's a topic we just do not agree on. 😄
Load More Replies... Shelli Aderman 10 months ago (edited)
Instacart is the BEST thing that came out of the pandemic! Most of us in NYC use it constantly. I love it, and I tip well!
Katie Allen 10 months ago
meanwhile EVERYTHING that gets ordered for my apt bldg gets left in the wrong part of the bldg or in the yard or on the street where homeless people steal it and I don't blame them so I don't order anything anymore
My O My 10 months ago
Is this service used much? I can't imagine spending so much just so I don't have to go out myself (disabled ect not taken into account here)
Janelle Collard 10 months ago (edited)
I use it about 3 or 4 times a month, usually cuz I forgot to put something on the grocery list or cuz the store my husband shops at is out of the item. Instacart Shoppers go the "mega" Walmarts + larger Safeway stores. Plus - I'm lazy. 😁
Load More Replies... Neopet22 9 months ago
Personally I prefer to shop myself but did use these types of services in emergency. I like to choose my own veggies and I don't love the whole waiting game while I'm trying to relax. Also,I do grocery shopping like once every 2 weeks when I'm paid,I have a very strict budget and if I pay $350 for groceries,I really can't afford a huge tip and that might make people angry.
BoredLittleLeafSheep 10 months ago
I used to shop for Instacart. Many people do not seem to understand that shoppers are NOT employees; they are independent contractors using their own vehicles and paying their own overhead costs. The app offers these shoppers a ridiculously low amount (sometimes as little as $5 per order) and the fees they charge the customers do not go to the driver. Imagine spending an hour shopping for someone, then delivering it to the customer's front door for less than $10. They are providing a personal service and deserve to be tipped WELL. And for those screaming "just go to the store yourself", many of my customers were elderly and disabled and rely on services like this. I enjoyed interacting with them, but the wear and tear on my vehicle and the abuse by entitled a******s who refuse to tip made it impossible to continue. If you use these services, TIP YOUR SHOPPER WELL!
Nikole 10 months ago (edited)
I shop through the Mariano’s/Kroger app, so those people are actually employees of Kroger and they deliver everything in a Kroger box truck thing. The app doesn’t even allow tips. Edit: and they shop in a warehouse, not a store.
Load More Replies... Janelle Collard 10 months ago
I LOVE Instacart! They let me be lazy! The older I get, the less effort I want to spend getting ready to go out: style my hair, do my makeup, change my clothes, drive to the store, shop, drive home, put the groceries away, change my clothes, wash my face... Nah!
Lene 10 months ago
I have done shopping in my night shirt and a pair of sweat pants. Lol. But I also only had a 5min walk to the store and back. So it was quick. Haha! I have a cousin who looked at me totally anxious on my behalf when I told her this, years ago. She was like "you didn't even put on a bra!?!?" And I said "nah, I was going right back home to watch TV on my couch. And I didn't plan to score with anybody in the fruit-and-veggies section anyways. So no need to look great.". It's a topic we just do not agree on. 😄
Load More Replies... Shelli Aderman 10 months ago (edited)
Instacart is the BEST thing that came out of the pandemic! Most of us in NYC use it constantly. I love it, and I tip well!
Katie Allen 10 months ago
meanwhile EVERYTHING that gets ordered for my apt bldg gets left in the wrong part of the bldg or in the yard or on the street where homeless people steal it and I don't blame them so I don't order anything anymore
My O My 10 months ago
Is this service used much? I can't imagine spending so much just so I don't have to go out myself (disabled ect not taken into account here)
Janelle Collard 10 months ago (edited)
I use it about 3 or 4 times a month, usually cuz I forgot to put something on the grocery list or cuz the store my husband shops at is out of the item. Instacart Shoppers go the "mega" Walmarts + larger Safeway stores. Plus - I'm lazy. 😁
Load More Replies... Neopet22 9 months ago
Personally I prefer to shop myself but did use these types of services in emergency. I like to choose my own veggies and I don't love the whole waiting game while I'm trying to relax. Also,I do grocery shopping like once every 2 weeks when I'm paid,I have a very strict budget and if I pay $350 for groceries,I really can't afford a huge tip and that might make people angry.
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