How to transfer your shift to another Pro
Sometimes you can't make it to a shift you've booked. Instead of canceling, you can transfer your change to another eligible Pro. This article explains how shift transfers work, their limitations, and troubleshooting tips.
What is a shift transfer?
A shift transfer lets you ask another Instawork Pro to cover your shift without counting as a cancellation for you. This helps you maintain your reliability score while ensuring the business still gets the help it needs.
When to use shift transfers
Shift transfers work best when:
- The other Pro is active on Instawork
- They meet all requirements for the shift
- They're available during that time slot
- You send the request with plenty of notice
Please remember: You're still responsible for the shift until you confirm that the transfer was successful.
How to transfer your shift
1. Open the Instawork app
2. Go to the "My Shifts" section
3. Find and tap on the shift you need covered
4. Tap "I can't make it"
5. Select "Get shift covered"
6. Enter your friend's name and phone number or select them from your contacts
7. Tap "Send request"
[Placeholder: screenshot of shift transfer screen — shows the transfer request form with contact selection]
Shift transfer limits
There are limits to how many shifts you can transfer:
- You can transfer up to 3 shifts every 30 days
- The app will show you how many transfers you've used and have remaining
- Once you reach your limit, you'll need to wait until 30 days after your last transfer
- After reaching the limit, you can only unlock one transfer at a time in a rolling 30-day period
Why a Pro might not be able to accept your shift
If your transfer request is declined, it could be because:
- The business only wants Pros they personally selected
- The other Pro isn't approved for this type of work
- The shift requires Top Pro Status, which the other Pro doesn't have
- The other Pro's account isn't active
- The other Pro declined the request
Unfortunately, Instawork cannot manually transfer shifts that don't meet the eligibility requirements.
What to do if the transfer isn't possible
If you can't transfer your shift:
1. Consider if you can still work the shift
2. If not, you may need to cancel properly through the app
3. Remember that cancellations may affect your reliability score
Tips for successful transfers
- Send transfer requests as early as possible
- Make sure the Pro you're asking meets the job requirements
- Have backup options in case your first choice can't accept
- Keep track of your transfer limit to avoid surprises
If you have any questions about shift transfers, please contact our support team through the app.