Difference Between DoorDash and Instacart

The food delivery market has experienced significant growth in recent years, and it’s not showing any signs of slowing down. The online food delivery industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.3%, reaching $505.50 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research. Instacart and DoorDash are prominent players in the food delivery ecosystem. Both have extensive market coverage, but which company is better? Here’s a detailed DoorDash vs. Instacart comparison to help you choose between the two.

DoorDash

DoorDash is an on-demand food delivery platform that partners with various restaurants to deliver meals to customers. It acts as a bridge between customers and local eateries. Founded in 2013, DoorDash has grown to become one of the leading food delivery platforms in the United States. It has expanded its services beyond traditional restaurant deliveries and now includes grocery delivery and other essentials.

Instacart

Instacart is primarily a grocery delivery and pickup service for retailers and consumers. It’s a leading online grocery company in North America and one of the fastest-growing companies in the e-commerce space. You can order groceries and household essentials from various retailers and have them delivered to your homes. The platform has gained popularity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people turned to online grocery shopping to avoid crowded stores.

Difference between DoorDash and Instacart

Business Model

DoorDash is an on-demand food delivery platform that focuses on delivering prepared meals from restaurants to customers’ doorsteps. It offers a wide variety of restaurants across various cuisines and price points. Instacart, on the other hand, is primarily known for grocery delivery services. It allows users to order groceries online from their favorite local stores, and Instacart shoppers pick up and deliver the items to the customer’s doorstep.

Availability

DoorDash is a big food delivery company that works in over 4,000 cities throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia. They work with over 340,000 restaurants, including popular chains like Wingstop, Five Guys, and Chick-Fil-A, to bring food right to your door. Instacart is one of the fastest-growing online grocery delivery services in the United States, with a presence in over 5,500 cities.

Drivers’ Pay

DoorDash pays Dashers for each delivery, with base pay ranging from $2 to $10. Additional earnings come from factors like distance, time, and order popularity. Dashers can also benefit from promotions like Peak Pay (an extra $1-$4 per delivery during busy hours), Challenges, and extra pay for large orders.

Instacart’s payouts vary for in-store and full-service shoppers. In-store shoppers receive a flat hourly wage ranging from $9 to $16 per hour, while full-service shoppers see an estimate based on factors like order size, driving distance, and effort involved.

Payments

DoorDash pays Dashers weekly through direct deposit, with most Dashers typically receiving payments by Wednesday. DoorDash offers Fast Pay, allowing Dashers to cash out their earnings on the day of delivery for a fee of $1.99 per transaction.

Instacart pays shoppers weekly through direct deposit. In-store shoppers can request a check mailed to their house. Full-service shoppers can utilize the Instant Cashout feature, which allows them to transfer funds to their debit card up to five times daily. However, there is a $0.50 transaction fee per Instant Cashout use and a daily limit of $3,000.

DoorDash vs. Instacart: Comparison Chart

Summary

Ultimately, the choice between DoorDash and Instacart depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to get your favorite restaurant meals delivered, DoorDash might be a better option. If you need groceries and other essentials delivered, Instacart would be a more suitable choice.

FAQs

Is it better to do Instacart or DoorDash?

The choice between Instacart and DoorDash depends on individual preferences, location, and specific needs. If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to get your favorite restaurant meals delivered, DoorDash might be the better option. If you need groceries and other essentials delivered, Instacart would be a more suitable choice.

Why is Instacart better?

Instacart shoppers can potentially earn more than DoorDash drivers and shopping for groceries can be more engaging than simply delivering food. Additionally, Instacart shoppers can choose which orders they accept and work when they want.

Do you make good money doing Instacart?

Your earnings on Instacart will depend on several factors, including your location, how many hours you work, the types of orders you accept, and your customer tips.

How much does DoorDash pay per batch?

DoorDash does not disclose their exact pay structure, but drivers typically earn a base pay of around $2-$3 per delivery, plus tips. The final payout also depends on factors like mileage and delivery time.

Does Instacart pay for gas?

No, Instacart does not directly reimburse shoppers for gas expenses. However, you can deduct your mileage as a business expense when filing your taxes.

Does DoorDash pay for gas?

Similar to Instacart, DoorDash does not directly pay for gas. However, they offer a “DasherDirect” fuel card that provides discounts at certain gas stations.

Is Instacart worth it in Canada?

The platform generally offers competitive earning potential with similar benefits as in the US.

How do Instacart shoppers get paid?

Instacart shoppers are typically paid weekly via direct deposit. They can also opt to receive instant payments for a small fee.

Do you tip on Instacart?

Tipping on Instacart is optional but encouraged. It’s a way to show your appreciation for the shopper’s time and effort. The standard tip amount varies, but 10–20% of the order total is considered generous.

Is there a monthly fee for DoorDash?

DoorDash Pass is a subscription-based service that offers several benefits to frequent DoorDash users, including lower delivery fees, free delivery on orders, at $9.99 per month.

Do you have to tip with DoorDash?

Tipping with DoorDash is also optional, but it helps drivers earn a living wage. The standard tip amount is similar to Instacart, around 10–20% of the order total.

What is the average pay for DoorDash?

The average DoorDash driver reportedly earns around $15–$20 per hour, including tips. However, this can vary significantly depending on location, time, and individual effort.

How much do you tip for a $20 pizza delivery?

A $5 tip is considered a good amount for a $20 pizza delivery. However, you can adjust the tip based on your level of satisfaction with the service and the distance the driver traveled.

Is $5 a good DoorDash tip?

A $5 tip is a decent amount for a short DoorDash delivery, especially for a small order. However, for larger orders or longer distances, a higher tip might be more appropriate.

Does DoorDash just leave food at the door?

By default, DoorDash drivers are instructed to leave the food at the customer’s door. However, customers can request “hand-to-me” deliveries.

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