Get Paid to be a Personal Grocery Shopper

Flexibility is at the top of the list of perks for home business owners. I can get up at 5:30 am on Friday and have my grocery shopping done before most people get to the office. I rarely have to wait in the checkout line. I get the freshest produce and baked good – it’s usually being unpacked fresh for the day when I arrive. I can use all of the coupons I want without receiving the stink eye from other customers in a hurry. Now imagine making money from this joyous experience when you offer up your services as a personal grocery shopper!

Who would need my services?

There are so many people that hire personal grocery shoppers. The elderly, ill and even busy parents and professionals enjoy home delivery as opposed to standing in the Friday-payday checkout line. If you live near a popular vacation destination with rental properties, you can offer your services to these guests as well.

How much can I get paid?

Many grocery stores contract personal shoppers for up to $25 per hour. If you decide to go into business for yourself, rates can run the gamut from $20 to $50 per hour if you are preparing a list and unpacking upon delivery. Some people charge a flat rate for simple drop-offs. Most shoppers also charge an extra 10-20% of the grocery total as well.

Are there companies that hire personal grocery shoppers?

Absolutely! Many grocery stores large and small now offer home delivery. Here are a few popular companies that hire shoppers:

• Safeway – regularly has openings nationwide
• Instacart – set your own hours and earn up to $25 per hour during peak hours (Sundays, Mondays and evening)
• Shipt

As you would expect, you will need to have reliable transportation and be able to physically lift those bags. You also need a great demeanor and will likely need to pass an interview. Most companies require a minimum of 18 years of age or older and the ability to pass a background check.

What if I want to start my own business?

You know I always like that idea! You won’t need much to get started:

• Reliable wheels
• Business cards and flyers to leave at grocery stores, child care centers, libraries
• Grocery checklists for your customers
• A means to pay – if your first customers will be strangers it is unlikely they are handing over their debit card or a blank check for you to use at the store. That means you need to pay upfront and collect payment upon delivery. You know I’m a little savvy so I’d likely apply for a cash back card like Discover so I could earn a little extra. (Remember to keep it paid off as those customer payments clear!) I would also put my favorite grocery apps to good use on customer orders.

The great thing about becoming a personal shopper is this business is scalable and easy to modify as needed into something like a full-fledged personal concierge service. In addition to grocery shopping, you could also offer school and holiday shopping during the fall. And let’s not forget opportunities like DoorDash if you love making deliveries.