Top 9 Apps Like Instacart to Make Money in 2026

The gig economy continues to offer flexible ways to earn money. For people seeking adaptable work, apps like Instacart to make money are a popular choice. These platforms allow you to set your own hours for grocery shopping and delivery tasks. This article provides a list of the top applications that pay you to shop and deliver, giving you strong alternatives for your next side hustle. You will learn about their unique features to help you decide which service fits you best.

List of Apps Like Instacart to Make Money

Many services connect drivers with customers who need items delivered. From groceries to restaurant meals, these platforms provide different ways to earn. Each application has features that appeal to different kinds of workers. Here are nine of the best options available today.

1. Shipt - Best for Grocery Delivery

Shipt focuses on delivering groceries and household essentials. Workers on this platform shop for customers at popular retail stores and deliver items to their homes. Shipt is known for having a community-focused feel among its shoppers. It often offers more consistent work during daytime hours compared to restaurant delivery services. Pay includes a base amount plus customer tips.

2. DoorDash - The Market Leader

DoorDash is a leading app in the food delivery space. It connects drivers with a wide network of restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience shops. The platform's pay structure includes base pay, peak pay during busy hours, and customer tips. Drivers have the opportunity to earn extra through "Challenges," which are bonuses for completing a certain number of deliveries in a set time. It is a strong choice for those working in busy urban areas.

3. Uber Eats - Best for Surge Pricing

Uber Eats is another major player that offers flexibility. A key feature is its surge pricing, which increases earnings during peak demand times. The app also connects with the Uber rideshare platform. This link lets drivers switch between delivering food and transporting passengers, creating more chances to earn money. Some locations provide guaranteed hourly rates, making income more predictable.

4. Grubhub - Great for Consistent Orders

Grubhub is one of the more established food delivery services. It allows drivers to schedule delivery blocks in advance, which can lead to more predictable work hours. The service has many loyal customers, which often results in steady tipping. It is a solid choice for drivers who prefer a more structured schedule. A focus on higher-end restaurants can also lead to larger order values.

5. Amazon Flex - Best for High Hourly Pay

Amazon Flex offers a different kind of delivery work. Drivers use their personal vehicles to deliver Amazon packages. This service includes items from Amazon.com, Prime Now, and Amazon Fresh. Unlike other apps that depend on customer demand, Flex allows drivers to sign up for scheduled delivery blocks. This feature makes it easier to plan work hours and predict earnings. Amazon even guarantees a minimum payout for certain delivery blocks.

6. GoPuff - Best for Quick Deliveries

GoPuff is centered on delivering convenience items and snacks. Deliveries are typically fast and cover short distances. This model is ideal for people working in dense urban environments. The work often involves picking up pre-packaged orders from GoPuff's own micro-fulfillment centers. This setup means drivers do not have to shop in stores themselves.

7. Postmates - Now Part of Uber

Postmates, which is now part of Uber, has a reputation for delivering almost anything from any store or restaurant. This wide scope gives drivers a greater variety of delivery types. It operates in many large cities. Its integration with Uber Eats has expanded its reach and driver pool. Drivers get paid for each completed pickup and drop-off, plus per-minute and per-mile rates.

8. Spark Driver - Best for Walmart Deliveries

The Spark Driver app is the platform for handling Walmart deliveries. Drivers deliver groceries, general merchandise, and other items directly from Walmart stores. This app is a strong option in suburban and rural areas where Walmart is a primary retailer. It offers different types of deliveries, including shopping and delivery or simply curbside pickup.

9. Caviar - Best for Premium Restaurants

Caviar focuses on deliveries from higher-end, independent restaurants. Because it partners with more upscale dining establishments, orders often have a higher value. This can lead to larger tips from customers. Caviar was acquired by DoorDash but still operates as a separate service in select cities. It appeals to drivers who prefer quality over quantity in their deliveries.

How to Choose the Right Delivery App

Selecting the best delivery platform depends on your personal goals and location. Some apps are more popular in urban centers, while others have a stronger presence in suburban areas. Think about what you want to deliver. Options range from restaurant meals and groceries to packages. Also consider whether you prefer a flexible schedule or the ability to book work blocks in advance. Signing up for multiple apps can help you find which one works best for you. To pick a service that matches your goals, consider the average pay, the type of work, and how busy the app is in your area.

Expert Tips to Maximize Your Earnings

To make the most money, it is smart to work for more than one delivery service. Top drivers often use several apps to stay busy during slow periods. Focus on peak hours, like lunch and dinner rushes, when demand is highest. This is also when platforms like DoorDash offer peak pay incentives and Uber Eats uses surge pricing. Prioritizing orders from expensive restaurants can also lead to better tips. Accepting multiple orders along the same route is another great way to increase your pay for a single trip.

The Technology Behind Delivery Platforms

Modern delivery apps are complex systems. They are built to manage orders, customer information, and driver routes efficiently. Building these platforms requires deep knowledge. A skilled mobile app development company in new york would focus on creating a smooth user experience for both the customer and the driver. A simple and reliable interface is key to success. Features like real-time tracking and easy communication are now standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which delivery app pays the most?

DoorDash and Amazon Flex often have some of the highest average hourly earnings, with many drivers reporting between $20 and $25 per hour. Actual pay depends on your location, the time of day, and customer demand. Features like surge pricing on Uber Eats can also lead to higher pay during busy periods.

Can you work for multiple delivery apps at once?

Yes, many drivers work for several delivery apps. This strategy allows you to switch between platforms based on which one has the most orders at any given time. It is a common way to reduce downtime and increase overall earnings.

What kind of vehicle do I need?

Most apps require a reliable car, scooter, or bicycle. The specific requirements vary by service and location. Make sure your vehicle meets the platform’s standards for age and condition. You will also need a valid driver's license and insurance.

How important are customer tips?

Customer tips make up a large portion of a driver's total earnings. Great customer service can lead to better tips. Things like fast delivery, good communication, and handling orders with care can make a big difference. Many apps allow customers to tip directly through the platform.

Final Thoughts

Delivery apps provide a flexible path to making money. Services like Shipt, DoorDash, and Amazon Flex offer unique advantages depending on what you want to deliver. By understanding how each platform works, you can choose the best apps like Instacart to make money for your needs. Signing up for more than one service and working during peak hours are proven ways to boost your income and succeed in the gig economy.