Instacart Shoppers are making waves in the gig economy, performing on-demand grocery deliveries organized through the Instacart app.
But Instacart isn’t the only game in town. There’s a whole world of high-paying food delivery jobs out there that are just as rewarding, if not more so. If you’ve ever had food delivered by the likes of DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Postmates, you’ve interacted with this burgeoning industry.
But how do you get started? And more importantly, how do you find the right fit? For starters, most of these jobs require you to have a vehicle, a driving license, and insurance. You’ll also need to be prepared to work around 40 hours a week to earn a decent wage.
But don’t worry, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. I’ve compiled a list of the best alternatives to Instacart that can help you make a great side income.
Whether you’re in the US or Canada, you can take advantage of these opportunities. And with the flexibility these jobs offer, you can earn extra income with ease while maintaining your main job. So let’s dive in and explore these fantastic opportunities.
The Rise of Gig Economy Jobs
The gig economy has seen incredible growth in recent years. More than just a fleeting trend, it represents a shift in how people think about work and income. Today, over 10% of employees have joined the gig economy according to a survey by ReportLinker. The benefits of this trend are evident. People are seeking flexible work schedules and the ability to work from wherever they want.
Benefits of Flexible Work Schedules
Flexible work schedules are a key reason many people are drawn to gig economy jobs.
This flexibility allows individuals to work around their existing commitments.
Whether you’re a full-time worker looking to make some extra money through a “side hustle” or someone seeking to gain more control over your work schedule, gig economy jobs can be an ideal solution.
As per Deloitte’s latest millennial study, a remarkable 64% of full-time workers are interested in doing side hustles to boost their income.
The Appeal of Independent Contracting
The appeal of independent contracting goes beyond just flexibility. It’s about having the freedom to choose when and where you work. It’s also about the potential for earning. For example, becoming a mover with Bellhop can net you up to $21 an hour, including tips and bonuses – all on your own schedule.
The gig economy isn’t just making waves in the developed world. It’s also gaining traction in developing countries, where over 30% of workers use gig platforms as a secondary source of income, as reported by BCG Henderson.
The gig economy is also breaking barriers in various sectors. The highest percentage of gig workers, 14%, find gigs in arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media followed by sales and related (10%) as per PYMNTS.
As the trend continues, more opportunities are opening up in the gig economy. Whether you’re tired of the traditional 9-to-5 grind or just looking for something new and exciting, there’s never been a better time to get involved. So, why not give it a shot? You might just find it’s the perfect fit for you.
Grocery and Goods Delivery Jobs
The appeal of the gig economy extends to the realm of grocery and goods delivery jobs. With the rise of online shopping and on-demand services, there’s an ever-growing demand for delivery personnel. This sector has seen a surge in opportunities, offering flexible work hours, attractive earnings, and the freedom to work when and where you’d like. Let’s explore some of the key players in this field.
Shipt: Shopping and Delivery
Shipt is a membership-based grocery marketplace that’s been making waves in the gig economy. As a Shipt shopper, you’re tasked with shopping for and delivering groceries to customers. You get to set your own schedule, work as much or as little as you want, and earn a decent income on the side.
GrubHub
GrubHub is one of the pioneers in the food delivery industry. As a driver, you’re responsible for picking up food orders from restaurants and delivering them to customers. With GrubHub, you get to earn competitive pay, keep 100% of your tips, and enjoy a flexible work schedule.
Postmates: General Delivery Service
Postmates offers a wide range of delivery services, from food and drinks to retail goods. As a courier, you get to choose your own hours, earn a good income, and even receive perks like discounted Postmates Unlimited membership.
DoorDash: Food Delivery
DoorDash is another popular food delivery service with a wide network of restaurant partners. As a Dasher, you have the freedom to choose when, where, and how much you work. Plus, you get to keep 100% of your delivery fees and tips.
Favor
Favor is a Texas-based delivery service that delivers anything you want. As a Runner, you’re a personal assistant to customers, delivering items from restaurants, stores, or other locations. This provides a unique opportunity to earn a good income while providing a valuable service.
Amazon Flex
Amazon Flex is a delivery service where you deliver packages for Amazon. As a driver, you use your own vehicle, set your own schedule, and earn competitive pay. Plus, you’re delivering for one of the biggest companies in the world.
Local Grocery Stores
Many local grocery stores also offer delivery services and are in constant need of delivery personnel. This provides a great opportunity to earn some extra income, especially if you’re familiar with your local area.
ParaWorks
ParaWorks is a new player in the delivery services sector. As a ParaWorker, you have the opportunity to deliver various items and earn a good income. Plus, you’re part of a growing community of gig workers who are reshaping the future of work.
In the evolving landscape of the gig economy, grocery and goods delivery jobs are emerging as a promising sector with a wealth of opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a side gig or a full-time job, these platforms provide a flexible and rewarding work environment.
Ride-Sharing Alternatives
Ride-sharing platforms are a great alternative to jobs like Instacart. They not only provide flexible work hours but also give you the chance to earn a substantial income. There are various ride-sharing platforms out there, but let’s focus on two of the most popular ones: Uber and Lyft.
Uber and UberEats
Uber is one of the leaders in the ride-sharing industry. As an Uber driver, you’ll enjoy the freedom to choose your own hours and the potential to earn big. With its wide user base, there are always rides to pick up. What’s more, you have the added advantage of earning tips from satisfied customers.
Along with Uber’s ride-sharing service, there’s UberEats. This is Uber’s food delivery service. If you prefer not to have passengers in your car, UberEats could be a great fit for you. Delivering food orders allows you to work at your own pace and still make a good income. You also get to keep 100% of the tips you earn.
Lyft
Much like Uber, Lyft offers a ride-sharing platform where drivers can earn money by providing rides to customers. Lyft is known for its strong community and friendly image, which can make driving for them a more enjoyable experience. Their rates are competitive, and they also offer the chance to earn tips.
Lyft has been expanding rapidly and is available in many cities. This means that as a Lyft driver, you’ll likely have a steady stream of customers. If you’re looking for a job that offers flexibility, good earning potential, and the opportunity to meet new people, driving for Lyft could be a great option for you.
Ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft provide excellent alternatives to traditional jobs. They offer the flexibility that the gig economy is known for, along with the potential for high earnings. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time job, these platforms could be just what you’re after.
Task-Based Job Platforms
In the ever-growing gig economy, task-based job platforms have emerged as a popular choice for those seeking flexible work. These platforms offer a wide range of tasks, from handyman services to grocery shopping, allowing workers to pick and choose tasks that suit their skills and availability. Two such platforms making a significant impact are TaskRabbit and Gigwalk.
TaskRabbit: Varied Tasks and Errands
TaskRabbit is a platform that connects taskers with clients in need of services. The tasker could be anyone from a handyman to a personal shopper. I’ve found that the flexibility and variety of tasks make TaskRabbit a great option for those looking for jobs similar to Instacart.
The platform allows you to set your own rates and choose tasks that cater to your skills and interests. You could be assembling furniture one day and doing grocery shopping the next. It’s the perfect gig for someone who enjoys a change of scenery and doesn’t want to be confined to a single type of task.
Gigwalk: Short Tasks for Businesses
Gigwalk takes a slightly different approach. This platform offers short tasks for businesses. As a Gigwalker, you could be checking store displays, verifying prices, or even testing mobile apps. The tasks are generally short, often taking no more than a few minutes, and you’re paid per task.
Just like TaskRabbit, Gigwalk allows you to choose which gigs to take on. You can select tasks based on your location, the pay, or even the time required to complete the task. It’s a great way to bring in some extra cash in your spare time, and it’s also an interesting opportunity to get a glimpse into different business operations.
In the realm of task-based job platforms, TaskRabbit and Gigwalk are just two examples of the many opportunities out there. They offer a level of flexibility and variety that make them attractive options for anyone looking for work in the gig economy. As the gig economy continues to grow, I expect we’ll see even more innovative platforms like these emerge.
Specialized Delivery Jobs
The gig economy is not just about general delivery jobs. It’s also host to a variety of specialized delivery jobs catering to niche markets. These specialized jobs allow gig workers to deliver specific goods, ranging from premium food to alcoholic beverages. Two prime examples of these platforms are Caviar and Drizly.
Caviar: Premium Food Delivery
For those who have a knack for delivering high-quality food from the best local restaurants, Caviar is an excellent platform. This food delivery service focuses on premium restaurants, providing an upscale delivery experience.
Caviar drivers, known as couriers, have the flexibility to work whenever it suits them, providing an excellent opportunity for those seeking a side gig or a full-time job. Couriers get to explore their city, discovering new restaurants and cuisines along the way. And with the potential for high earnings, it’s a win-win situation.
Drizly: Alcohol Delivery
Drizly, on the other hand, is a unique platform that focuses on the delivery of alcoholic beverages. It’s a great choice for gig workers who are interested in the liquor industry.
Drizly partners with local liquor stores to deliver a wide variety of alcoholic beverages right to customers’ doors. Like other gig jobs, Drizly offers the flexibility to work whenever you’d like, giving you control over your schedule. Plus, it’s an excellent way to learn about different types of alcohol and the industry’s trends.
In the ever-evolving gig economy, these specialized delivery jobs provide unique opportunities. They allow gig workers to focus on niche markets, providing an interesting twist to the traditional delivery job.
Pros and Cons of Gig Economy Jobs
Just like any job, gig economy jobs have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help individuals make informed decisions about whether these jobs are a good fit for them.
Earning Potential and Flexibility
One of the significant benefits of gig economy jobs is the potential for high earnings. Platforms like Caviar and Drizly offer opportunities for drivers to earn well, especially during peak times. The more deliveries a driver makes, the more they earn. In addition to the base pay, drivers can also keep 100% of their tips. This can significantly boost their total income.
Moreover, gig economy jobs offer unmatched flexibility. Workers can choose when, where, and how much they want to work. With Instacart, for example, you can make up to $200 a day if you organize your time well. This makes these jobs perfect for people looking for a side hustle or those who prefer a non-traditional work schedule.
Considerations on Job Stability and Benefits
While gig economy jobs do offer potential for high earnings and flexibility, they also have their own set of challenges. One of the main issues is the lack of job stability. Since these jobs are based on a gig-by-gig basis, there can be times when work is not readily available.
Furthermore, gig workers are typically classified as independent contractors, not employees. This means they’re not entitled to traditional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off. Some might find this lack of benefits concerning, especially those who rely on gig economy jobs as their primary source of income.
Gig economy jobs certainly have their advantages, but it’s important to weigh these against the potential drawbacks. Understanding both sides of the coin can help individuals make the right decision for their personal and financial circumstances.
Increasing Your Earnings as a Delivery Driver
As a delivery driver in the gig economy, you’re not just limited to base pay. Tips and bonuses are a significant part of your earnings. Here are a few strategies to maximize your income.
Providing Excellent Service
Firstly, it’s all about the customer experience. If you deliver orders on time and with a smile, customers are more likely to tip generously. Always remember, customer satisfaction is key.
Choosing the Right Times
Next, consider working during peak hours. These are typically meal times and weekends when people often order more. You’re likely to get more deliveries and hence more earnings. Remember, the more deliveries you make, the more money you pocket!
Utilizing Incentives
Finally, take advantage of incentives offered by your platform. Some platforms offer bonuses for completing a certain number of deliveries or for working during specific hours. Stay updated with your app’s notifications and emails for such opportunities.
By implementing these strategies, you can increase your earnings significantly. But remember, these are just strategies, results may vary depending on the city, the competition, and your level of dedication. Your earnings will always be a reflection of your hard work and commitment.
Wrapping Up
So, there’s a world of opportunity out there in the gig economy, especially in delivery jobs that are just like Instacart. They offer a chance to dive into a variety of cuisines, explore new restaurants, and even earn a pretty penny. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. You’ve got to remember that job stability and traditional benefits aren’t part of the package. It’s a trade-off you’ll need to consider.
If you decide to take the plunge, remember it’s not just about delivering food. It’s about delivering an experience. Excellent service can help boost your earnings. And don’t forget to play smart. Choose the right times to work, take advantage of incentives, and stay dedicated.
But remember, your mileage may vary. Factors like your location, competition, and how much effort you put in can influence your earnings. So, take the leap if you think it’s right for you. After all, who knows? You might just find your niche in the bustling world of the gig economy.