Instacart makes grocery delivery incredibly convenient, but sometimes you may need to cancel an order due to a change in plans, incorrect item selection, or an unexpected delay. Whether you’re a new user or a frequent shopper, understanding how to properly cancel an order on Instacart is essential for avoiding unwanted charges and wasted time. This guide will walk you through every step to ensure you cancel your order correctly and understand the potential implications.
TLDR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
If you need to cancel your Instacart order, do it as soon as possible through the app or website before your shopper begins collecting the items. Cancellations are free if done early, but if the shopper has started selecting items, you might face fees or be unable to cancel entirely. Always check your order status and act quickly. Refunds typically return to your card within 7–10 business days.
Why You Might Need to Cancel an Instacart Order
There are several reasons why someone may decide to cancel an Instacart order. These include:
- Change in plans – You may no longer need the items you ordered or might want to shop in person instead.
- Wrong items – A mistake in your cart, such as selecting the wrong quantity or product.
- Unexpected delays – Delivery delays may affect when you need your groceries.
- Price change or promotion – You may want to adjust your order to take advantage of a sale or promo code.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to understand the steps for canceling and what potential consequences could result from acting too late.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cancel an Instacart Order
Below you’ll find a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown on how to cancel your Instacart order through both the app and the website.
Canceling an Order Using the Instacart App
- Open the Instacart App: Launch the Instacart app on your iOS or Android device.
- Go to ‘Orders’: Tap the three horizontal lines in the upper-left corner and select ‘Your Orders’.
- Select the Order You Want to Cancel: Find and tap on the relevant order to see the order details.
- Tap ‘Cancel Order’: Scroll down and tap ‘Cancel this order’.
- Confirm Cancellation: Confirm the cancellation when prompted. A confirmation message will affirm your order has been canceled.
Canceling an Order from the Website
- Visit Instacart.com: Log in to your account using your credentials.
- Access Your Orders: Click on your profile icon in the upper-right corner and choose ‘Your Orders’.
- Select the Order: Click on the specific order you would like to cancel.
- Cancel the Order: Click the ‘Cancel order’ button and confirm your action.
These steps are straightforward, but timing is everything. Let’s discuss why acting quickly is critical.
When Is It Too Late to Cancel?
Instacart’s cancellation policy is time-sensitive. If your assigned shopper has already begun shopping, your ability to cancel becomes limited or unavailable. Here’s how timing can affect outcome:
- Before shopping begins: You can cancel freely and receive a full refund.
- While shopping is underway: Cancellation may not be possible or could incur a fee (usually up to the full price of items that have already been selected).
- After shopping is completed: You will not be able to cancel the order, and it will be processed as normal.
To check the status of your order, always revisit your account under the “Orders” section. There, you can see real-time updates including whether a shopper has been assigned and has started picking items.
Will You Receive a Refund?
Instacart typically issues refunds for canceled orders. Here is what you should know about receiving your refund:
- Full refunds: If you cancel before the shopper starts shopping, you will receive a complete refund including tips and service fees.
- Partial refunds: If only part of your order was processed, you may receive a refund minus any items already purchased.
- Refund processing time: It can take between 5 to 10 business days for refunds to reflect on your payment method.
Always check your email or the Instacart app for confirmation of your cancellation and refund status.
Things to Consider Before Canceling
Before canceling your order, you may want to think about whether there are more flexible options:
- Modify the Order: If your shopper hasn’t started, you can still adjust quantities or substitute products.
- Schedule Change: Change the delivery time instead of canceling your entire order.
- Contact Support: Call or chat with Instacart customer support to explain your situation before canceling.
Taking these routes may help you avoid cancellation fees or reduce inconvenience.
How to Contact Instacart Support
If you’re unsure whether your order can be canceled or have specific concerns, contacting Instacart support is the best course of action. There are multiple ways to get in touch:
- Chat: Use the live chat function in the app or website for real-time assistance.
- Email: Reach out to help@instacart.com with your order number and issue details.
- Phone: Call their customer service number, which is available under the “Help” section of the app.
Keep your order number handy to expedite the process and ensure accurate assistance.
What Happens to Your Tip When You Cancel?
Tips are refunded automatically when orders are canceled before a shopper begins. If a shopper had already started working on your order, they may receive partial compensation, but this does not come from your account unless specified. Be sure to monitor your refund details to confirm the breakdown of charges and reimbursements.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to cancel an Instacart order is invaluable for anyone relying on grocery delivery services. Timing, verification, and proper steps ensure that you’re not overcharged or inconvenienced. Always check your order status frequently, and act quickly if a cancellation becomes necessary. Make use of the customer support system if you’re unsure about your options, and remember that modifying an order may be a better alternative to canceling outright.
Instacart offers flexibility when used correctly, and knowing how to manage your orders responsibly will improve your overall experience with the platform.
