Instacart Review 2026: Is It Worth It? Plus $0 Delivery for a Year for Businesses

Between work, family, and everything else, a trip to the grocery store can eat up an hour or more. Instacart brings the store to you, and if you buy for a business, you can get a full year of $0 delivery fees.

Instacart is the biggest grocery delivery service in North America, working with most major supermarkets and many local stores. And if you order for a business, like an office, coffee shop, school, or restaurant, signing up for a business profile with a referral link gets you $0 delivery fees for a year with Instacart+. In this Instacart review, we'll cover how it works, what it really costs, the pros and cons, and exactly how to claim the business offer.

What is Instacart?

Instacart is a grocery delivery and pickup app. You choose a store near you, add items to your cart, and a personal shopper picks everything out and brings it to your door, often the same day and sometimes within an hour or two.

It works with big chains like Costco, Kroger, Aldi, Publix, and Safeway, plus pharmacies, pet stores, and specialty shops, depending on where you live. You can also choose curbside pickup if you'd rather grab the order yourself.

Is Instacart legit?

Yes. Instacart is one of the most widely used delivery apps in the US and Canada. You can chat with your shopper while they're in the store, approve replacements if something is out of stock, and get refunds for missing or damaged items.

The real question isn't whether it's legit but what it costs. Prices on Instacart can be higher than in the store at some retailers, and you'll see delivery fees, service fees, and a suggested tip. For many people the time saved is worth it, but it helps to know that going in.

How Instacart works, step by step

1. Sign up on the app or website with your address.
2. Choose a store from the list of retailers that deliver to you.
3. Fill your cart and pick replacement preferences in case something is out of stock.
4. Choose a delivery window or select pickup.
5. Track your shopper in real time and approve any substitutions.
6. Get your groceries delivered to your door.

Who is Instacart best for?

Instacart is a lifesaver if you:

• Have a busy schedule and can't fit in a store run.
• Have young kids and would rather skip dragging them through the aisles.
• Don't have a car or have trouble carrying heavy groceries.
• Need something today and can't get out.
• Shop at several stores and want everything in one app.

Instacart pros and cons

How to save money on Instacart

A few simple moves make a big difference:

• Ordering for work? Create a business profile to get a year of $0 delivery fees.
• Take advantage of free delivery on your first three orders of $10 or more, which new customers get within 14 days of their first order.
• Try pickup when you can, since it skips the delivery fee.
• Consider Instacart+ if you order often. It includes $0 delivery on orders of $35 or more and lower service fees, and you can try it free first.
• Check the Deals tab for store sales and buy-one-get-one offers.

Get $0 delivery for a year with an Instacart business profile

Who the business offer is for

Instacart Business is built for places that restock often: coffee shops picking up milk, ice, and produce; schools buying snacks, water, and supplies; offices keeping drinks and disposables on hand; and restaurants topping up between supplier deliveries.

How to claim the business offer

1. Open the link above and create a business profile.
2. Add your business details and a payment method.
3. Place your first order. Your year of $0 delivery fees with Instacart+ applies to eligible orders.
4. Order $250 or more to earn 2% credit back.

Good to know

• The $0 delivery fee is for delivery fees only; service fees and tips still apply.
• Ordering just for your household? New personal accounts get free delivery on their first three orders of $10 or more, no link or Instacart promo code needed.
• Only one promo can be applied per order.
• Offer details are set by Instacart and can change, so check the terms when you sign up.

Frequently asked questions