In this review, we will be looking at Shipt, a business featured on our website. Please note that this review includes an affiliate link, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through it. We will provide a brief, honest and impartial overview of their products or services and share some insights into what you can expect based on their advertisements.
If you are interested in them or want to learn more about them, just click on any of the links in the article and that will direct you to the merchant’s site. Now, let us see how they measure up.
Shipt is a membership-based grocery delivery service that allows customers to shop for groceries, household essentials, and other items through an app or website, with same-day delivery available in most areas.
Founded in 2014 in Birmingham, Alabama, Shipt initially focused on grocery delivery but has since expanded its services to include a broader range of products from stores like Target, Costco, and Petco. In 2017, Shipt was acquired by Target, which enabled it to grow its partnerships and expand its reach into additional markets, making it a competitive player in the on-demand delivery sector.
The Shipt experience begins with its user-friendly app or website, where customers can browse available items by category, store, or specific product. Once items are added to the cart, customers can choose a preferred delivery window, often within an hour or two of placing their order.
Shipt aims to make the delivery process as seamless as possible by pairing each order with a personal shopper who handpicks items based on customer preferences, even contacting them in real-time if substitutions are necessary. This level of service is a key differentiator, as it brings a personal touch that many of Shipt’s competitors don’t offer.
A Shipt membership is required to use the service, with options for a monthly or annual subscription, though some locations offer a pay-per-order option. Membership benefits include unlimited free deliveries on orders over a certain amount, usually around $35 currently, and exclusive deals.
The membership model has made Shipt particularly appealing to busy professionals, parents, and anyone looking to save time on regular shopping trips. Shipt also strives to provide a high level of customer service, with responsive support available via chat, phone, or email to address any issues or special requests customers might have.
Beyond groceries, Shipt’s expanded partnerships allow members to shop from an even wider variety of stores, with items spanning from home goods to pet supplies. Shoppers are trained to handle orders with care, ensuring fresh produce, cold items, and other perishables are managed with appropriate attention. The expansion into Target and other stores has significantly increased Shipt’s reach and versatility, and customers now have a much broader selection, which has boosted its popularity in the home delivery market.
For those looking to join Shipt as shoppers, it offers flexible scheduling, enabling workers to set their hours and work as independent contractors. This arrangement has drawn many individuals seeking side income or work-life balance, and Shipt’s shoppers often find the work rewarding due to the autonomy and customer interactions. However, like with any gig-based work, shoppers’ earnings can vary depending on the number of orders, tips, and location demand.
Shipt provides a well-rounded grocery and household essentials delivery service with a focus on personalized shopping and flexible membership options. While the service’s pricing and availability vary by region, its strong customer service and vast selection make it a popular choice for those prioritizing convenience and quality in grocery shopping.
SHIPT OFFERS SEVERAL POSITIVE ASPECTS (“THE GOOD”) AS WELL AS SOME AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT (“THE BAD”) AND POTENTIAL DRAWBACKS OR CHALLENGES (“THE UGLY”) THAT CUSTOMERS AND SHOPPERS MIGHT EXPERIENCE.
THE GOOD
Convenience and Flexibility: Shipt allows customers to order groceries and household items from the comfort of their home, with same-day delivery available in most areas. This flexibility is a major perk, especially for people with busy schedules or limited transportation.
Personalized Shopping Experience: Shipt’s use of personal shoppers adds a unique touch to the shopping experience. Shoppers often reach out to customers if there are substitutions, ensuring that they get a product they’re happy with. This personal interaction is something many customers appreciate, especially if they’re particular about brands or quality.
Expanded Store Selection: Since being acquired by Target, Shipt has expanded its partnerships beyond grocery stores to include major retailers like Target, Petco, and even Office Depot in some areas. This variety means members can shop for a broad range of items, from fresh produce to pet supplies, in one place.
Unlimited Deliveries for Members: With a Shipt membership, customers can enjoy unlimited free deliveries on orders over a certain minimum (usually $35), which is ideal for frequent users who want to maximize their savings and convenience.
Flexible Work for Shoppers: For shoppers, Shipt provides an option to work independently and set their own hours. Many Shipt shoppers enjoy the flexibility of working when they want and the chance to earn tips on top of their base pay.
THE BAD
Membership Requirement: To access Shipt’s services, customers typically need to sign up for a membership, which can be a turnoff for those who only want to use the service occasionally. Although there are some pay-per-order options in select areas, they aren’t available everywhere.
Higher Prices: Shipt’s prices can sometimes be higher than in-store prices, with markups on certain items depending on the retailer. Additionally, a delivery fee may apply for smaller orders, which could add to the overall cost. Some customers find this to be a drawback, especially compared to other services that offer price matching.
Order Fulfillment Challenges: Due to demand, particularly during peak hours or busy times like holidays, customers might experience delays or limited availability. Shipt shoppers also occasionally struggle with high order volumes or stores that lack the items ordered, which can lead to frustrations for both parties.
Shoppers’ Pay Structure: For Shipt shoppers, the pay structure can be inconsistent, depending on tips, order size, and travel distances. Some shoppers report that pay per order doesn’t always match the time or effort required, which can be discouraging. Additionally, shoppers may incur wear and tear on their vehicles, which can cut into their overall earnings.
THE UGLY
Inconsistent Customer and Shopper Experience: Since Shipt relies on a large network of independent contractors, service quality can vary significantly from one shopper to another. While many shoppers are diligent, others may not provide the same level of care, which can impact the customer’s experience negatively. In some cases, customers report items being missed or the quality of products (like produce) not meeting expectations.
High Cancellation and Substitution Rates: Shipt’s fulfillment is limited by what is available in each store, and customers may face frequent substitutions, especially during times of high demand. In some instances, Shipt might cancel orders altogether if there is a lack of available shoppers, which can be frustrating for customers who rely on timely deliveries.
Dependence on Membership Fees and Cost Sensitivity: Because Shipt relies on membership fees, there is a pressure for consistent usage to justify the cost. For users who may only occasionally need a delivery, the cost of membership can be difficult to justify, especially with competing services that offer free delivery or fewer fees.
Safety and Risk for Shoppers: For Shipt shoppers, working as an independent contractor has its challenges. With no benefits, inconsistent earnings, and the risk of driving long distances, some shoppers find the financial and physical strain significant, especially in busy urban areas where demand and traffic are high.
Shipt is a convenient service with a lot to offer but can sometimes be costly or unpredictable. Customers who prioritize reliability and a wide selection of items often find Shipt beneficial, while others may find that the costs and potential inconsistencies outweigh the convenience. Shipt shoppers face similar pros and cons: flexible hours and potential for good tips are appealing, but the unpredictable income and high demands during peak hours can be challenging.
You might want to check out Shipt for the convenience, time-saving benefits, and flexibility it brings to grocery and household shopping.
With Shipt, you can skip the grocery store altogether and have a personal shopper handle your list, making it ideal for busy schedules, people with mobility issues, or anyone looking to reclaim the time they’d normally spend shopping.
Shipt’s app and website offer an easy way to browse and purchase items from various stores, not just groceries but also essentials from places like Target, Petco, and Office Depot. Shipt’s personal shoppers pick items based on your preferences, and if something you’ve selected is unavailable, they’ll reach out for substitutions, adding a personalized touch that feels less automated compared to other delivery services.
If you tend to shop frequently or want the flexibility of same-day deliveries, Shipt’s membership may be especially appealing. A membership covers unlimited free deliveries on orders over a minimum, which can be cost-effective if you use the service regularly. The service is also a good option if you value same-day delivery, as Shipt prioritizes getting orders to you within hours.
Lastly, Shipt can be a flexible side gig if you’re considering shopping as a way to earn extra money, as you set your hours and work as an independent contractor. Whether for the ease of getting essentials delivered or the opportunity to work on your own terms, Shipt has options that make it worth checking out.