Is Shipt Worth It? 2026 Driver Review & Pay Breakdown
By GrindBoss Team • Last updated: January 17, 2026
Shipt Review Quick Verdict
The Bottom Line: Shipt offers a flexible way to earn money by shopping for and delivering groceries. It is a solid choice for those looking for a gig with good earning potential, especially with customer tips.
Why We Love It
- Flexible work hours
- Instant pay option available
- Potential for good earnings with tips
The Catch
- ✕Requires your own vehicle
- ✕Earnings can vary by demand
- ✕Must pass a background check
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What is Shipt & How Does It Work?
Shipt is a gig app that lets you earn money by shopping for groceries and household items. You deliver these items directly to customers' homes. It provides a flexible way to make extra cash on your own schedule.
Shipt is owned by Target, giving it a strong backing in the retail world. Unlike some delivery apps, Shipt focuses heavily on the personal shopping experience.
At A Glance
- TypeGig Apps
- PlatformiOS & Android
- CostFree
- Est. YearN/A
How It Works
Create Your Profile
Sign up through the Shipt app or website. You will need to pass a background check to get started.
Accept Orders
Browse available shopping and delivery requests in your area. Choose the ones that fit your schedule and location.
Shop and Deliver
Go to the assigned store, carefully pick out the customer's items, and then deliver them to their door.
Is Shipt Legit? (Company Background)
It is important to know if a gig app is trustworthy before you commit your time. Let's look at Shipt's background and operations.
- Real Company, Strong Backing: Shipt is owned by Target, a major retail company. This gives it a solid foundation and strong financial support in the delivery market.
- Wide Reach: Shipt operates in over 5,000 cities across the US. This wide availability shows it is a large and established service for many communities.
- Many Workers: More than 300,000 shoppers and drivers use Shipt across the country. This large community points to a working and active platform for gig work.
- Customer Support: Shipt offers 24/7 support for its users. Their customer service has been recognized for its quality, which is helpful for shoppers.
Verdict: Legit
Shipt is a legitimate company with a significant presence in the delivery market. Its ownership by Target adds to its credibility and stability as a platform for gig workers.
How Much Do Shipt Drivers Actually Make?
Many people join Shipt to earn extra money. Understanding how much you can make is key to deciding if it's the right gig for you.
- Average Hourly Earnings: Most shoppers report earning between $16 and $25 per hour. This can change based on your location, how quickly you shop, and how many orders you complete.
- Tips from Customers: Shipt customers can give tips directly to their shoppers after delivery. These tips are a big part of your overall earnings and you keep 100% of them.
- Order Availability: The number of available orders can vary depending on the time of day, week, and your specific area. Busy times and popular areas usually offer more opportunities to work.
- Sign-up and Referral Bonuses: Shipt sometimes offers bonuses for new shoppers or for referring friends. These offers differ depending on your local market and current promotions.
Bottom Line: Shipt offers good earning potential for gig workers. Your actual pay will depend on how often you work, customer tips, and local demand for deliveries.
How & When Does Shipt Pay?
Getting paid quickly and easily is important for gig workers. Shipt offers a few ways to receive your earnings after completing deliveries.
- Payment Method: You can receive your earnings through direct deposit to your bank account. Shipt also offers an instant pay option for quicker access to your money.
- Minimum Cashout: There is no minimum amount needed to receive payments via direct deposit for your weekly earnings. For instant pay, there might be a small fee.
- Cashout Speed: Regular payments are processed weekly through direct deposit to your bank account. If you need your money sooner, the instant pay feature lets you get your earnings right away.
- Approval Process: Your earnings are usually available after you successfully complete and deliver an order. Customers have time to review their order before final payment processing.
- Tax Considerations: As an independent contractor, you are responsible for reporting your earnings for tax purposes. Shipt does not withhold taxes from your pay.
Bottom Line: Shipt provides flexible payment options, including weekly direct deposit and instant pay. This makes it easy to access your earnings when you need them.
Pros and Cons of Driving for Shipt
The Good
- Flexible Schedule. You get to choose when and how much you want to work, fitting deliveries around your own life.
- Good Earning Potential. You can earn a competitive hourly rate, especially when you receive tips from happy customers.
- Instant Pay Option. Shipt offers a way to get your money quickly, which is helpful for immediate needs.
- Target Backing. Being owned by Target provides stability and a trusted brand name behind the service.
- Personal Shopping Role. Many shoppers enjoy the act of carefully selecting items for customers, making it more engaging than just driving.
The Bad
- Vehicle Required. You need your own reliable car for shopping and deliveries, which means gas and maintenance costs.
- Earnings Vary. Your pay can change based on order demand, how many orders you get, and customer tips.
- Background Check. You must pass a background check to become a shopper, which can take some time.
- Limited Availability. Shipt does not operate in all US states or specific areas, so it might not be available everywhere.
Shipt Driver FAQ
Is Shipt legit or a scam?
Shipt is a legitimate gig app. It is owned by Target, operates in over 5,000 cities, and has a large network of shoppers. It offers a real way to earn money.
What are the background check requirements for Shipt?
To become a Shipt shopper, you must pass a background check. This check typically looks at your driving record and criminal history to ensure safety.
What are the vehicle requirements to be a Shipt shopper?
You need a reliable vehicle for shopping and deliveries. It must be an insured car from 1997 or newer to meet Shipt's requirements.
How much can you make as a Shipt shopper?
Shipt shoppers typically earn between $16 and $25 per hour. Your actual earnings depend on order volume, your efficiency, and the tips you receive from customers.
How do tips work for Shipt shoppers?
Customers can add a tip to their order after delivery through the app. Shipt shoppers receive 100% of these tips, which can significantly increase your overall earnings.
Can Shipt shoppers cash out instantly?
Yes, Shipt offers an instant pay option. This allows you to transfer your earnings to your bank account right away, usually for a small fee.
What are the busiest times to work for Shipt?
Demand for Shipt orders is usually higher during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Bad weather or special events can also lead to more available orders.
