How to Create an Effective Shopping List for Your Errand Runner

Using a professional errand runner to handle your grocery shopping is one of the most effective ways to reclaim time in your week. However, the quality of the results depends heavily on one thing: your shopping list. A clear, detailed list means your runner spends less time calling you with questions and more time completing the task efficiently.

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating the ideal shopping list for your Workmotion runner.

Step 1: Be Specific with Product Names and Brands

The most common issue with shopping lists is vagueness. "Get milk" means different things to different people. Does that mean full cream, skimmed, or long-life? What size? Which brand?

Instead, write: "Parmalat Full Cream UHT Milk, 1 litre, x2". This level of detail eliminates ambiguity and means your runner can move through the store quickly and confidently.

If you have a brand preference, state it. If any brand is acceptable, say so: "Any brand, 2% fat milk, 1L, x1".

Step 2: Include Quantities and Units

Numbers matter. State how many pieces, packets, kilograms, or litres you need for every item. A runner who is unsure of quantity may buy too little – or call you for clarification, which defeats the purpose of delegation.

Good example:

• Nali Chilli Sauce – 200ml bottle – x1
• Roma Tomatoes – 500g bag – x2
• Broiler Chicken Thighs – approximately 1kg

Step 3: Note Any Acceptable Substitutions

Stock availability in Lusaka supermarkets can be unpredictable. Save yourself – and your runner – unnecessary delays by specifying what substitutions are acceptable in advance.

For example: "If Basmati rice is not available, brown rice is fine. If neither is available, please call before buying anything else."

This empowers your runner to make smart decisions without disrupting your day.

Step 4: Set a Maximum Budget

Always include a total budget or per-item maximum price. This is especially important when buying produce, where prices fluctuate with season and availability. A simple note like "Total grocery spend should not exceed K850" gives your runner the context they need to make good purchasing decisions.

Your runner will always contact you if the estimated total looks likely to exceed your stated budget before making any purchases.

Step 5: Specify Which Store to Use

Lusaka has many supermarkets – Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Game, Choppies, Melissa's – each with different pricing and stock levels. Tell your runner which store to prioritise and whether they may visit a second store if an item is unavailable at the first.

Step 6: Use a Digital List for Easy Updates

The simplest method is a WhatsApp message with the list typed clearly, or a shared note in Google Keep or Notes. Photo lists work fine too – take a clear picture of a handwritten list, ensuring good lighting and no blur. Avoid voice notes for shopping lists, as they are harder for runners to reference while inside a store.

Step 7: Confirm Delivery Instructions

Let your runner know exactly where to deliver and who will receive the items. If you will not be home, confirm whether a neighbour, security guard, or family member can accept the delivery. Let us know whether items should be placed in a specific location (refrigerator, storeroom, etc.).

A Quick Template to Get You Started

Use this format as a starting point for your next errand request:

• Store: Shoprite Manda Hill (or nearest available)
• Budget: No more than K700 total
• Items:
  • Full cream milk – Parmalat 1L x2
  • White bread – Novamill, 700g x1
  • Fresh tomatoes – 500g x1
  • Eggs – tray of 30
  • Cooking oil – Yummy 2L x1
• Substitutions: Any brand acceptable for tomatoes. No substitution on oil.
• Delivery: Deliver to [your address], leave with security if I am not home.

A great list means a great errand – every time. If you are ever unsure, your Workmotion runner will always ask before making a decision that affects your order.