Introduction to Shipt
Shipt is a popular online grocery delivery service that connects customers with personal shoppers who handpick and deliver groceries from local stores. Founded in 2014, Shipt has grown rapidly and is now available in over 5,000 cities across all 50 U.S. states, offering same-day delivery services for groceries and household essentials.
Getting Started with Shipt
Membership Options
Shipt operates on a membership model with two primary options:
- Annual membership ($99/year)
- Monthly membership ($10.99/month)
Both plans provide unlimited free delivery on orders over $35, making it cost-effective for regular users.
Signing Up
To start using Shipt, create an account through the Shipt website or by downloading the app from the App Store or Google Play. Follow these steps:
- Create an Account: Enter your email address, create a password, and provide your zip code
- Choose a Membership Plan: Select either monthly or annual membership
- Add Payment Information: Enter your preferred payment method
Shopping Process
Selecting Your Store
Shipt partners with various retailers, including:
- Target
- Meijer
- CVS
- Petco
- Local grocery chains
Browsing and Ordering
- Browse Products: Use the search bar or browse through categories
- Add to Cart: Click on items to add them to your cart
- Choose Delivery Window: Select a convenient delivery time, often available within 1-2 hours
- Review Order: Double-check items, quantities, and delivery address
Pro Tip: Create a preferred items list to speed up future orders and ensure you get exactly what you want.
The Shopping and Delivery Process
Personal Shoppers
Shipt employs personal shoppers as independent contractors who:
- Receive orders through their app
- Manually select items in store
- Communicate about substitutions
- Deliver to specified locations
Substitution Policy
If an item is unavailable, shoppers will:
- Text you with alternative options
- Wait for your approval
- Either make the approved substitution or skip the item
Pricing Structure
Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Delivery (orders under $35) | $7 |
| Service fee | ~5% |
| Optional tip | 15-20% recommended |
Note: Prices on Shipt may differ from in-store prices, with markup typically ranging from 3-5%
Special Features
Smart Shopping Tools
- List sharing capabilities
- Dietary preference filters
- Past purchase tracking
- Delivery pass options
Target Integration
- Same-day delivery from all Target stores
- Target Circle rewards integration
- RedCard payment options
Tips for Optimal Service
- Be Specific: Use notes to specify preferences for items
- Stay Connected: Keep your phone handy during shopping
- Schedule Strategically: Book deliveries during off-peak hours
- Maintain Clear Instructions: Provide detailed delivery instructions
Customer Support
Shipt provides support through multiple channels:
- 24/7 chat support
- Email assistance
- Phone support
- Help center documentation
Account Security
Shipt implements several security measures:
- Two-factor authentication
- Encrypted payment processing
- Secure password requirements
- Regular security audits
For more information, visit the Shipt Help Center or check service availability in your area on the Shipt coverage map.