Is Shipt a smart way for shoppers to earn extra money? What are the real advantages and downsides? Here’s a detailed Shipt shopper review covering what to expect before you apply.
You’re likely here because your paycheck isn’t stretching far enough—and you want a better, more comfortable lifestyle. The truth is, a single 9–5 job doesn’t always create the freedom (or income) many people are aiming for.
One practical way to move closer to your goals is to test out gig-economy side hustles online.
There are tons of gig options out there, but in this guide we’re focusing on one specific route: becoming a paid grocery shopper and getting paid for shopping and delivering orders.
Shipt is one of the best-known shopper networks, but is it actually worth your time and effort?
Let’s break it down so you can decide for yourself.
What is Shipt?
Shipt is a grocery delivery service that launched in 2014. Originally based in Birmingham, it has expanded its footprint to hundreds of cities across the United States.
Shipt works with many well-known retailers, letting customers pick where they want to shop. Popular partners commonly include stores like Target, CVS, HEB, Petco, Meijer, and Costco.
One major difference compared to other grocery shopping apps is membership: customers generally need to be paying members to place orders. That membership model can help create steadier demand for shoppers and offers benefits for frequent customers.
| Hourly Pay | Tip % | Delivery Volume | Next Steps | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10-$14/hour | 100% | Fair | GET STARTED | Read Full Review |
To understand what Shipt is like from a shopper’s perspective, let’s look at how the platform works day to day.
How Does Shipt Work
At its core, Shipt runs a simple system where customers place orders and shoppers fulfill them—making it beneficial for both sides.
Members choose a partner store, add items to their cart, and then select delivery details such as address and preferred delivery time.
On the shopper side, you can open the shopper app/site to see available orders in your area. You pick a job, drive to the store, and shop the list.
If an item is out of stock, the app allows you to message the customer to confirm a substitute (or skip the item).
You typically don’t need to use your own cash. Shoppers commonly use a Shipt-provided payment method (often a card) to pay for the order at checkout.
After checkout, you deliver the groceries to the customer, complete the order in-app, and then you’re free to accept more deliveries.
In the background, retailers benefit from additional sales, Shipt earns revenue through its membership/fees, and shoppers earn income for the shopping + delivery work.
For more ideas beyond grocery work, see our roundup of delivery apps to make money.
How Much Does Shipt Pay?
No Shipt shopper review is complete without discussing the pay structure. If you’re considering this as a side hustle, the key question is whether your hourly earnings make sense for the time you’ll invest.
Many shoppers report earning roughly $15–$30 per delivery on average, though results can swing higher or lower depending on order size, tips, timing, and your market. Here’s the typical breakdown.
Commission
Most shoppers earn a base amount per order plus an additional portion tied to the cart total. In many cases, the starting base can be around $5 per order, plus a percentage of the final shopping bill.
Another advantage is visibility: you can usually see an estimated payout before you accept an order—helping you decide whether it’s worth it.
As you get more experienced, some shoppers take multiple orders at once (batching) to increase earnings per hour.
Tips
Tips aren’t guaranteed, but customers can add them. When tips happen—especially on larger orders or during holidays—they can make a big difference. If a customer tips, you generally keep it.
Gas Money
Shipt typically doesn’t reimburse fuel. That means you’ll want to factor in gas plus vehicle wear-and-tear when calculating your real profit.
Taxation
Shoppers usually work as independent contractors, which means taxes aren’t withheld automatically. Many gig workers set aside part of earnings (often around 25–30%) to cover tax obligations.
Shipt Shopper Job Review
Now that you understand the basics, let’s get into the practical details—requirements, the application process, and what the job feels like in the real world.
Shipt Shopper Requirements
To apply as a Shipt shopper, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements. In general, you must be at least 18 years old and have a reliable vehicle (some markets may list a minimum model year requirement).
You’ll also typically need a valid driver’s license, current auto insurance, and a bank account for direct deposits.
One thing to plan for: shoppers often need an insulated cooler bag. Unlike some delivery platforms, you may need to purchase your own.
Finally, you’ll need a working smartphone and the ability to lift and carry grocery loads (commonly up to around 40 pounds).
Signing Up as a Shipt Shopper
If you meet the requirements, the next step is applying. Shipt’s process is generally straightforward and focuses heavily on reliability and customer trust.
You’ll usually start with an online application where you enter basic information (name, contact info, age) and details related to driving and insurance.
After submitting, many applicants are invited to a virtual interview. This is your chance to explain why you’d be a good fit, and you may also get scenario-style questions to evaluate customer-service and problem-solving skills.
If approved, you’ll typically be notified a few days after the interview and get access to training resources via the shopper hub.
How Much Can You Earn as a Shipt Shopper?
Because earnings are usually a mix of base pay + a percentage + tips, your hourly rate can vary widely. Many shoppers land somewhere around $15–$30 per hour in good conditions, but your actual “net” depends on expenses and order selection.
To improve profit, track mileage for potential deductions, try to reduce unnecessary driving, and focus on efficient order routes. A fuel-efficient vehicle can also help keep costs down.
Another strategy is batching: taking multiple orders and delivering them in a single trip can significantly increase earnings per hour when done carefully.
If you want more options beyond Shipt, check out other shopping/delivery gigs like Amazon Flex.
Shipt Payouts
Payout tracking is usually handled inside the shopper app/dashboard. After you complete orders, earnings show up in your account summary.
In many cases, Shipt pays out weekly—often on Fridays—for the prior work period. Funds are typically deposited to your linked bank account, and you can review order history and payout details inside the platform.
Shipt Shopper Pros
Many shoppers enjoy Shipt because it can be flexible and there’s a strong emphasis on customer experience. There’s also an online community culture that some shoppers find helpful.
Here are several common upsides:
Shopper’s Perks
Depending on programs available at the time, shoppers may access discounts or perks tied to partner retailers. Some also report discounts on certain services (like insurance-related offers) or savings on prescriptions.
Special Rewards
Shipt sometimes runs incentive programs where shoppers can earn rewards (like gift cards or bonuses) by hitting milestones or completing certain order targets.
Flexible Working Hours
Flexibility is one of the biggest draws. You can choose when to work, how much to work, and often which areas to prioritize based on your schedule and commute.
Order Transparency
Before accepting an order, you typically see key details and an estimated payout. That makes it easier to skip low-value orders and focus on work that better fits your goals.
User-Friendly Interface
Shipt’s app experience is generally easy to navigate, which helps new shoppers ramp up quickly.
Many new shoppers also appreciate beginner resources and guidance available inside the shopper hub to learn order flow and delivery best practices.
Shipt Shopper Cons
No gig is perfect. Along with the benefits, there are common frustrations shoppers mention. Here are a few realistic downsides to consider.
No Mileage Reimbursement
Because you’ll be driving frequently, fuel costs add up quickly. Shipt generally doesn’t cover mileage or maintenance, so your real profit depends on managing expenses.
Work Availability
Order volume can vary based on your city, time of day, and season. Some days you might have plenty of options; other days could feel slow.
No List Details
Shoppers may see estimated earnings and order value, but not always the full list of items before accepting. That can lead to unexpectedly time-consuming shops (hard-to-find products, heavy items, or lots of substitutions).
Lack of Immediate Payouts
Even with consistent weekly pay, some shoppers prefer instant cash-out options. If you need same-day access to earnings, a weekly payout schedule can be limiting.
Tips for Beginner Shipt Shoppers
If you’ve read through this Shipt shopper review and you’re leaning toward trying it, these tips can help you start stronger and earn more efficiently.
Here are a few beginner-friendly strategies many shoppers rely on:
Use Your People Skills
Beyond base pay, tips are often the biggest variable. Great customer service can directly increase how often you get tipped.
Simple habits help: introduce yourself, keep the customer updated, and ask if they need anything added before checkout.
When substitutions are necessary, always confirm first—and if possible, send a quick photo of options. That reduces complaints and improves the overall experience.
Finally, don’t underestimate basic friendliness. A positive attitude can translate into better ratings and better tips over time.
Bag Orders On Specific Days
Many shoppers report weekends (especially Sunday) and early-week days (like Monday) can be busier. If your schedule allows, prioritize those high-demand windows.
Keep Checking the App
Even when you’re not scheduled, it can be worth checking for high-value orders or bonus opportunities. Some platforms offer extra incentives when orders sit unclaimed.
For more ways to stack savings and rewards, see our guide to cashback apps.
Track Your Miles
Because you’re covering your own gas, mileage tracking matters. Logging mileage can help you estimate true profit and may support tax deductions where applicable.
Prioritize Small Orders
Small orders may pay less, but they can be quicker and help you stay active instead of waiting around for “perfect” large orders. They’re also great practice for learning the system and batching efficiently.
See Related: Uber Alternatives to Make Money
Final Words
So, is being a Shipt shopper worth it?
In our view, Shipt can be a legitimate gig option for earning extra income through grocery shopping and delivery—especially if you’re strategic about the orders you accept.
While $15–$30 per hour can be achievable in good conditions, your take-home profit depends heavily on tips, efficiency, and expenses like fuel and maintenance. If you batch smartly and plan routes well, the job can become much more worthwhile.
Ultimately, every side hustle requires time—and sometimes upfront costs—to build a reliable income stream. If you want a flexible option and don’t mind shopping and driving, Shipt is a reasonable platform to test.
For more ideas, see our list of profitable side hustles.
