Best Instacart Express alternatives for grocery delivery in 2024

Grocery delivery has become an indispensable service, especially for those with busy schedules or a preference for the convenience of online shopping. While Instacart Express has been a popular choice, many users are on the lookout for other options due to pricing, availability, or the desire for a broader range of products. With new services constantly emerging and established ones enhancing their features, 2024 offers an array of excellent alternatives to Instacart Express. Let’s explore the best grocery delivery services to consider this year.

Why Look for Instacart Express Alternatives?

While Instacart Express provides valuable benefits, such as free delivery on orders over $35 and reduced service fees, there are a few reasons why someone might want to explore other options:

• Cost: Instacart Express charges a monthly or annual subscription fee. Other services might offer better deals or free delivery options.
• Availability: Instacart may not cover certain locations, or some grocery stores may not partner with them.
• Product Selection: Some customers might want a wider range of specialty items or direct access to specific stores.
• Delivery Speed: With some services offering faster delivery times, users might seek a quicker option.

Understanding these pain points is key to finding the right grocery delivery service that matches your lifestyle and needs.

Top Instacart Express Alternatives in 2024

1. Amazon Fresh

Pros:

• Wide variety of products, including groceries, household items, and Amazon-exclusive products.
• Free delivery for Amazon Prime members in select cities.
• Option for same-day delivery in many areas.
• Integration with Amazon devices like Alexa for a seamless shopping experience.

Cons:

• Only available to Amazon Prime members.
• Limited to specific regions.

Amazon Fresh is an appealing option for those who already have an Amazon Prime membership. It boasts an extensive selection of groceries, including fresh produce, pantry staples, and even local market offerings. The service also integrates with Amazon’s vast retail inventory, allowing you to shop for other household items simultaneously. With its rapid delivery options and frequent deals, Amazon Fresh is a strong contender.

2. Walmart+

Pros:

• Unlimited free deliveries on orders of $35 or more.
• In-store prices for online grocery shopping.
• Offers same-day delivery in many locations.
• Additional perks like fuel discounts and mobile scan-and-go for in-store shopping.

Cons:

• Requires a Walmart+ membership.
• Limited to Walmart’s product range.

Walmart+ is perfect for those who want to access Walmart’s vast selection of groceries at in-store prices. The subscription includes free unlimited deliveries, so you can shop online without worrying about additional fees. If you live near a Walmart store, same-day delivery is often available, making it a convenient option for last-minute grocery needs.

3. Shipt

Pros:

• Same-day delivery from a variety of stores.
• Personalized shopping with shoppers selecting quality items.
• Membership includes free delivery on orders over $35.

Cons:

• Requires a Shipt membership.
• Delivery fees apply for orders under $35.

Shipt partners with several retail chains, offering users more flexibility in choosing where to shop. This service also emphasizes a more personalized experience, with shoppers handpicking your groceries to ensure you receive the best-quality items. With the option for same-day delivery, Shipt is a versatile alternative for users looking for variety beyond Instacart’s store selection.

4. FreshDirect

Pros:

• High-quality, fresh groceries with an emphasis on local products.
• Specialty and gourmet items not commonly found in other stores.
• Delivery pass options for frequent shoppers to save on fees.

Cons:

• Limited delivery areas, primarily in select cities.
• Delivery fees unless you opt for a delivery pass.

If you’re particular about the quality of your groceries and prefer specialty or gourmet items, FreshDirect is an excellent choice. This service focuses on sourcing fresh, locally produced goods and offers a wide range of organic and gourmet foods. While it may not be available everywhere, those in its service areas can benefit from its curated selection and delivery pass options to offset costs.

5. Thrive Market

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of organic, non-GMO, and sustainable products.
• Membership grants access to exclusive deals and discounted prices.
• Ships non-perishable groceries and household goods nationwide.

Cons:

• Primarily focused on non-perishable items; limited fresh produce.
• Requires an annual membership.

Thrive Market stands out for its commitment to healthy, sustainable products. It’s an excellent option if you’re searching for organic, gluten-free, or vegan groceries. While it doesn’t offer fresh produce, it provides a broad selection of pantry items, snacks, and other non-perishable goods. The membership fee also supports Thrive Market’s mission of making healthy food accessible, as they donate memberships to families in need.

6. Google Shopping

Pros:

• Aggregates prices from various grocery stores for comparison shopping.
• No membership required; pay per delivery or pickup.
• Flexibility to shop from different stores in your area.

Cons:

• Delivery times and fees vary depending on the store.
• Service quality depends on the individual store’s performance.

Google Shopping allows users to compare grocery prices across multiple retailers and choose their preferred store for delivery or pickup. While it doesn’t offer the perks of a dedicated grocery subscription, it provides flexibility and price transparency. This can be particularly useful for those who want to shop around for the best deals without committing to a single service.

Manage Your Grocery Subscriptions with SubTracked

Choosing the right grocery delivery service often involves signing up for memberships or subscriptions, which can add up over time. To keep track of all your recurring payments and avoid surprise charges, consider using SubTracked. SubTracked helps you:

• View all your subscriptions in one place to monitor expenses.
• Receive notifications about upcoming renewal dates to avoid unwanted charges.
• Track price changes to stay informed about potential cost increases.
• Find alternatives when you’re ready to switch to a different grocery delivery service.

Conclusion

With grocery delivery services evolving rapidly, there are plenty of excellent alternatives to Instacart Express in 2024. Whether you’re looking for the wide selection of Amazon Fresh, the in-store pricing of Walmart+, or the specialty items from FreshDirect, there’s an option to suit every shopping preference and budget.

No matter which service you choose, managing your grocery delivery subscriptions is crucial to staying within your budget. With SubTracked, you can effortlessly keep track of your memberships, receive notifications, and explore alternatives to make informed decisions. Sign up for a free trial with SubTracked today and take control of your subscription spending!