Top 32 Platforms For Flexible Jobs Like Instacart In 2024

Over the past few years, I've realized the soaring demand for flexible jobs. Jobs like Instacart have creatively filled this gap, offering unparalleled flexibility and competitive pay, leaving traditional 9-5 workplaces in the dust.

With this rise in popularity, many people are searching for similar alternatives to maximize their earning opportunities while maintaining control over their schedule.

As we roar into 2023, let's explore the top platforms providing a flexible work environment comparable to Instacart. These platforms allow you to work as much or as little as you'd like, giving freedom back to workers one gig at a time.

If I had a dime for every person who asked me about other jobs like Instacart, I could retire comfortably somewhere tropical! Yet this curiosity and desire for flexibility highlight an evolving workforce culture that deserves our attention.

Great news for us all - innovative platforms continue sprouting up across industries and corners of the globe, handing us even more options on our remote job search menu.

35 Best Jobs Like Instacart: Wait Less, Earn More

This section delves into some of the best jobs, like Instacart, focusing on platforms that breed flexibility, great pay, and convenience.

I will discuss venues ranging from rideshare apps to grocery delivery services, all designed to put you in control of your financial destiny. Whether looking for a side hustle or a full-time gig, these platforms offer great options.

DoorDash

DoorDash is a highly favored platform in the U.S. that provides food-delivery service. The company enables its users with a 'Shop & Deliver' option, allowing customers to place orders from restaurants, retail outlets, convenience stores, and even grocery shops. This provides for deliveries straight to the doorstep! 

You become an independent contractor when you choose to work as a Dasher (a fancy name for their delivery personnel).

This grants you tremendous flexibility - you can accept orders whenever convenient, shop for the requested goodies, pay for them, and make the home delivery yourself.

Earnings as a Dasher range from $2.00 to $10.00 per order, and guess what? You get to pocket 100% of those tips! 

Shipt Shoppers

Shipt, a grocery delivery platform resembling Instacart, has made significant strides in the gig economy.

As a Shipt Shopper, you're the engine that keeps this machine running, shopping for and delivering groceries to customers who place orders via the Shipt app. 

The basic requirements? You must be 18 years old, equipped with a reliable vehicle (don't forget about your valid driver's license), and an iPhone or Android smartphone user.

A bit of physical endurance is needed, too; be prepared to lift to 40 pounds.

Now let's talk compensation. The average earnings of Shipt Shoppers can reach an appealing $20 per hour! Of course, salaries can vary depending on your location and demand. But I believe it is an attractive and flexible option worth exploring.

Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex is the 21st-century gig that lets you earn cash while delivering smiles. If you enjoy being on the move and getting packages from A to B, this platform is tailor-made for you! As an Amazon Flex driver, you deliver Amazon packages using your vehicle.

If you're already thinking, "Tell me more!" here it comes. The earning potential ranges from $18 - $25 per hour based on location, tips, and how fast you can zip around town. 

Joining the bandwagon is pretty straightforward too! You only need to be at least 21 years old, show off a valid driver's license, have a mid-sized or large vehicle at your disposal, and own a smartphone.

No rocket science is involved there. Once Amazon gives a thumbs up for your application, all that's left is scheduling blocks of time during which you'd like to work, and voila!

You're ready to rumble on the road with Amazon packages riding shotgun in your car. Amazon Flex punches in for anyone seeking job flexibility with decent paychecks on the horizon as a worthy option/ contender.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats. Initially known for ridesharing, Uber has expanded its offerings and brought Uber Eats into the market. This platform enables customers to order groceries from their app and deliver them directly to their doors by an Uber Eats driver. 

Becoming a driver for Uber Eats is pretty straightforward, all you need is to be over 18 years of age with a valid driver's license and insurance.

You can take advantage of the platform using your reliable vehicle or even a bike, which could be handy in a heavily crowded urban area.

There's no need to worry about earnings either because the average pay for Uber Eats drivers may reach up to $16 per hour. This rate can even increase in specific locations or during high-demand peaks.

Thus, it doesn't just offer flexibility in terms of work schedule but also gives you potential earning opportunities comparable to those at Instacart.

TaskRabbit

Let's talk about TaskRabbit, an incredible platform that connects skilled 'Taskers' like you and me to folks needing a helping hand.

Imagine a digital marketplace where we can offer our skills for services ranging from everyday chores like cleaning and moving assistance to personalized tasks, including handyman services and personal assistant roles. 

The beauty of TaskRabbit is the freedom it gives us to set our hourly rates for the tasks we undertake. Yes, we decide what our time is worth.

Depending on the complexity of the tasks we select, Taskers have been known to demand rates as high as $160 per hour.

Pretty neat. Plus, with many tasks on the platform, finding jobs that pique your interest or align with your unique skills should be a cinch. Now that's what I call flexibility at its finest. 

Burpy Shopper

Are you good at grocery shopping? Like, good? If so, joining the Burpy Shopper army might hit that 'Instacart alternative' sweet spot for you.

Burpy is an intuitive grocery delivery service platform allowing you to pick up and deliver groceries to online customers.

As a Burpy Shopper, you get those avocados ripe and ready. It would help if you were at least 18 years old, had a reliable vehicle, a valid driver's license, and the strength to lift to 30 pounds— think watermelon level.

Also important is having a smartphone with internet access—it's your lifeline for reaching out to customers in case they ask for that rare exotic cheese!

How about earnings? You could pocket up to $22 per hour as a Burpy Shopper. However, take note that this depends heavily on location and demand.

For example, metropolitan areas where hopping between stores can be faster may offer better-earning potential.

GoPuff 

If you're already familiar with Instacart's delivery model, you’ll find GoPuff somewhat similar. However, there is a little twist here; the platform specializes in delivering groceries and home essentials.

From your favorite midnight snacks to over-the-counter medications and household cleaning supplies, GoPuff is bringing convenience to customers' doorsteps around the clock. 

As a driver partner with GoPuff, in addition to the variable base pay per delivery, I found that you pocket 100% of the tips, which can significantly boost your earnings.

Your main tasks involve picking up pre-packaged orders from GoPuff’s local fulfillment centers and driving them to customers' locations.

GoPuff stands out for its late-night service and range of deliverables beyond groceries. It presents an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to provide essential services while earning a decent side or full-time income. The plus? You dictate when you drive! 

Postmates Fleet

Postmates Fleet is a force to reckon with regarding job flexibility and ease of onboarding. It's an easy-to-use platform where customers order groceries and conveniently have them delivered by drivers like yourself.

Unlike some delivery platforms, Postmates allows you to make deliveries even if you don't own a car – bikes are acceptable too!

And guess what? The requirements are pretty straightforward. You must be 18 or older, have a valid driver's license and insurance (if using a vehicle), and have a smartphone with the Postmates Fleet app downloaded.

With the average earning potential reaching up to $15 per hour, Postmates Fleet earns its spot on this list.

Of course, actual earnings can vary based on your location and demand, but opportunities for good pay exist across the board.

Peapod

A close competitor of Instacart is Peapod. It's an innovative online platform that enables customers to book their grocery delivery quickly and conveniently.

Picture yourself as a Peapod delivery driver, buzzing around town fetching orders from major grocery stores like Giant, Marin’s, or Stop & Shop. You’d have the flexibility to pick jobs in your area, choosing the best hours for you. 

It’s pretty simple to jump aboard their team. The basic requirements include being at least 21, having a trustworthy vehicle, holding a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, and mustering the strength to lift to 50 pounds. 

As far as earnings are concerned, they offer average competitive pay of around $15 per hour. But remember, accurate payments can fluctuate depending on your location and market demand.

Grubhub

Next on my list is Grubhub, a platform that's made a giant name for itself in the food delivery industry. What's more exciting?

Grubhub has expanded its operations to include your favorite restaurant dishes and items from grocery and convenience stores - all available through a membership service.

As a driver for Grubhub, you're tapping into multiple earning streams: base pay, additional contributions from Grubhub itself, special bonus offers, and, let's not forget - keeping 100% of the tips.

The cherry on top? Opening up the scope to work simultaneously with other companies will further boost your earnings. 

Favor

Favor is a unique platform that dubs its contractors 'personal assistants' rather than mere delivery drivers. This title comes with good reason, as the variety of services customers can order spans from food delivery and grocery runs to picking up dry cleaning - talk about keeping things spicy.

What I love about Favor is the potential income diversity it offers. Contractors earn a combination of a delivery fee plus an impressive 100% of tips received.

Contrast this with platforms that often limit the services provided to just food delivery, and Favor becomes a versatile heavyweight contender in arenas beyond just groceries.

Remember, being more than simply a delivery driver' broadens your scope. On Favor, contractors are personal assistants catering to varying customer needs which can significantly diversify your income sources - now that's what I call flexible.

So if you're after something different but still crave jobs like Instacart, don’t overlook Favor.

ASAP

A platform that often tickles my curiosity is ASAP, which you might remember by its former name, Waitr. This US-based platform is a food delivery app that lets you enjoy the thrill of customer interaction without the hassle of restaurant work.

ASAP connects customers with local restaurants across the United States, priding itself on delivering diverse menu options to anyone craving a stay-at-home dining experience.

For those considering diving into this opportunity, there are a few prerequisites. You'll need a reliable vehicle, a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and that trusty smartphone to access the ASAP app. 

The earning potential for an ASAP driver varies depending on location, demand, and hours worked.

Yet generally speaking, drivers earn between $10 to $15 per hour, excluding tips, sweetened with incentives for drivers who surpass specific delivery goals or brave peak hours.

Upshift

Next up is Upshift, a platform quickly climbing the ladder to secure its spot amongst the top platforms offering jobs like Instacart. But what is it about Upshift that makes it so appealing? Quite simply, it's all about flexibility (the magic word). 

Upshift primarily connects businesses and individuals looking for part-time, flexible work, predominantly in the hospitality and metro industries.

It offers a super user-friendly interface for employers and workers to reduce hiring chaos and mitigate last-minute staffing woes.

To get started with Upshift, you'll need a smartphone and legal proof you are eligible to work in the United States. Once accepted onto the platform, you can browse various short-term gigs or part-time jobs available around your locality.

However, availability primarily depends on your location and hourly wage expectations; the employer sets pay rates ranging from $10-$20 per hour.

If you're exceptionally skilled at managing your time without binding commitments pulling you down, then be ready to embrace Upshift — your itinerary manager for moonlighting liberation!

Spark Walmart Grocery Delivery

Spark Walmart Grocery Delivery - the name alone might pique your interest, but let me assure you, it's not just a catchy title. This rapidly growing app resembles the popular Instacart Shopper and focuses on providing grocery delivery jobs.

Simply put, it's a partnership between Walmart's grocery delivery service and Spark drivers to bring online orders straight to customers' doors.

To carve out a piece of this pie for yourself, there are a few boxes to check off: be at least 18 years old, own vehicular transportation with a valid license and insurance, maintain the ability to lift to 50 pounds (true warrior style!) and possess a smartphone for efficient utilization of the Spark driver app.

Now that doesn't sound too far-fetched for anyone with physical and digital navigation skills! The cherry on top? Average earnings for Spark Walmart Grocery Delivery Drivers can reach $20 per hour.

Veho

Veho is a burgeoning local courier and delivery service. If you've got a reliable car and the open road calls to you, this could be your perfect match. To qualify as a driver for Veho, ensure you meet their baseline requirements.

Besides being at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license and insurance, having a smartphone for the Veho app is also mandatory, but worry not - it's user-friendly.

The earning potential becomes quite exciting as they branch into diverse deliveries beyond groceries - from restaurant orders to various goods.

Reports suggest that drivers can earn up to $18 per hour on average. However, keep in mind earnings can fluctuate based on location and delivery demand.

Unlike other platforms, Veho offers an added layer of job flexibility like Instacart – you have complete control over your schedule and earnings. With its eyes set on expanding offerings in 2023 and beyond, now might be an ideal time to jump on board.

Point Pickup

Point Pickup is an outstanding app-based delivery company that operates across the United States.

The platform links local couriers with customers and retailers, developing a seamless delivery system for everything from groceries and prescription drugs to packages and home goods.

To become a Point Pickup driver, you'll need a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and of course, a smartphone for the all-essential app.

You must know that Point Pickup requires its potential drivers to pass a background check.

The best part about this job? Your income can be pretty substantial. Depending on your location, hours worked, and demand in your area, average earnings typically range between $10 to $25 per hour. And remember—tips are included. That's quite intriguing for all those who believe driving is their forte. 

Caviar

No doubt many of you are already familiar with Caviar, a renowned food delivery service app much like Instacart. Operating in popular cities across the US, Caviar provides riders and delivery drivers with a flexible side hustle.

Accurate earnings data for Caviar are elusive, as it often depends on factors like location and delivery demand. That said, some online blogs suggest per hour earnings can range from $14 to $25 or even higher during peak times!

With Caviar, you aren't just delivering food—you're providing top-notch restaurant experiences straight to customers' doorsteps. Plus, you get to choose the hours that work for your schedule. At Caviar, flexibility reigns supreme!

And there's more good news; the application process for this platform is typically quite simple. You only need a vehicle (Bicycle Moped Car) and proof of identity to get started on your flexible job journey with Caviar.

Seamless

As its name suggests, Seamless provides a smooth and effortless opportunity for flexible work. Known for its robust network across the US, especially in cities like New York and Chicago, Seamless allows delivery drivers to earn income based on deliveries they complete in their chosen schedule. No rigid working hours and no boss breathing over your shoulder.

While exact earnings may diverge based on location, time off work, and tips you receive from customers, you can expect to earn on average between $12 and $20 per hour before expenses, according to local online blogs and user reviews. Additionally, potentially lucrative peak times may also bump your earnings.

To become a Seamless driver, you need a vehicle (could be a car or bike, depending upon area policy), valid ID proof, and transparent background checks. The application process is straightforward and relatively easy to navigate. You decide when to deliver – whether during peak dining times or throughout the day!

What better way to take control of your schedule than with a job designed around it? Seamless makes it happen by putting the driver back in the driving seat of their career! This kind of flexibility mirrors what many appreciate about Instacart jobs.

Roadie

A fascinating addition to gig economy jobs, Roadie, presents a unique take on delivery services.

Unlike Instacart or Deliv, Roadie is a crowdsourced delivery platform that allows deliveries over long distances. Essentially, you could get paid for your road trip!

Applicants eager to become a "Roadie driver" must fulfill some essential requirements, including a valid driver's license and auto insurance coverage.

Once successfully enlisted via their online registration process, you can start accepting gigs that align with your travel plans.

The earning potential of Roadie varies significantly. Factors such as the size and distance of gigs hugely impact earnings.

According to various online sources, an average Roadie trip running about 120 miles earns around $60, and longer trips with oversized items can reach $650.

Higher earning potentials, particularly for delivering large items across state lines, make it an attractive prospect for travelers.

Moreover, unlike traditional delivery platforms like Instacart, requiring strict adherence to schedules or delivery timelines, the unique crowdsourcing model by Roadie provides drivers with extensive flexibility.

Saucey

As one continues to explore flexible jobs like Instacart, one can't help but stumble upon an alcohol delivery service with a swanky name – Saucey.

Saucey prides itself on its simple application process, allowing you to promptly kick off your journey as a delivery specialist. This app is available in several major U.S. cities and lets you make the townsfolk's celebrations even more enjoyable by delivering their favorite spirits right to their doorsteps.

Partnering with Saucey offers both schedule flexibility and an attractive earning potential. The hourly earning rate floats around $10 but can spike significantly because customers often tip generously.

The easy onboarding process involves downloading the Saucey app, providing the required details, and waiting for approval. Once approved, you can start accepting delivery jobs that suit your schedule.

While working with Saucey might not make Mark Zuckerberg wealthy, it can provide a solid income stream on times and terms that suit you.

If delivering happiness in liquid form speaks to your service-oriented soul, why not raise a glass (or a bottle) to this opportunity?

ChowNow

Imagine running your local restaurant… alright, maybe it's a bit of a leap if you're looking for some flexible work. Yet, partnering with ChowNow allows you to support your neighborhood eateries by bringing delicious meals straight to the customers' doors.

A friendly bridge between customers and their favorite culinary outlets, ChowNow presents an excellent platform that marries convenience and gastronomy.

The exact earnings as a ChowNow delivery driver can vary based on numerous factors – the location, hours worked, tips given, etc. However, earning around $15-$25 an hour is not uncommon when including tips.

Demand is usually highest during meal times; thus, by strategically working breakfast, lunch or dinner shifts, you can give your day a huge earnings boost.

Sign-up is straightforward: download their app and follow instructions to complete registration.

I must say – isn't it incredible that fulfilling work like this exists? You get to help hard-working local businesses while making hungry clients happy and earning money.

Zifty

Zifty - a name that rings synonymous with speed and efficiency. But hey! It's more than just quick deliveries; Zifty offers various products ranging from restaurant orders to retail items.

Working with Zifty grants you dynamism that conventional 9-5 roles don't usually offer. Whether you enjoy social interaction or appreciate the solitude of your vehicle, Zifty deliveries are an adventure on their own.

The hourly rate typically hovers around $10-$20 but remember that caveat about tips still applies here!

The signup process requires some patience as they perform extensive checks before approving new drivers but hey, Better safe than sorry!

I love Zifty because this gig offers ample room for someone road-bound who craves diversity in their daily routine (and income potential). Variety? Check. Flexibility? Double check!

Bluecrew Jobs

I do not doubt that Bluecrew is one of the most versatile platforms when looking for jobs like Instacart.

This app connects job seekers with flexible W2 employment across various industries like warehousing, logistics, hospitality – even events!

Unlike other gig apps where you work as independent contractors sans benefits (ouch), Bluecrew employs users directly, so employee protections like workers comp and sick leave can apply.

Due to various job offerings through BlueCrew, pay rates fluctuate widely based on positions' responsibility levels and skill requirements ranging from $12 - $25 per hour on average.

Some roles even offer overtime, which means extra dough in your pocket! The platform boasts ease through its simple download-register-apply model.

BlueCrew gets my thumbs up because it redefines job-hopping by providing various options alongside employee benefits.

Munchery

Munchery is one of those companies passionate about bridging gourmet meals from professional chefs' ovens right onto patrons' dining tables.

Perhaps what sets Munchery apart from other food delivery platforms is its menu quality and diversity, which means increased demand (and, most importantly: tips)!

Earnings can vary based on factors like location and shift hours but typically range between $15-$20 per hour with tips included.

Munchery leverages technology smoothly; sign up via their website or app and get ready to transform food from mere sustenance into shared pleasure for many families.

What I cherish about Munchery is how it nourishes community spirit one meal at a time while allowing its drivers flexibility coupled with earning potential.

Drizly

With its spirited slogan, "Get the door. It's the liquor store," Drizly is making waves in alcohol delivery services.

Drizly partners with local stores to deliver everything from beer to spirits at your doorstep.

Though it's not a job you might immediately think of, becoming a Drizly driver can prove profitable while offering extensive flexibility.

Typical earning potential fluctuates mainly due to location, hours worked, and tips from generous souls. However, estimated earnings, including dividends, often range from $15-$20 per hour.

To get started with this gig, download and register on the Drizly app, and once approved, you can begin accepting delivery jobs at your convenience.

Working for Drizly is almost like being part of an exclusive club – except instead of bouncers standing by velvet ropes, recipients eagerly await their beverage of choice.

Eaze

Eaze boldly labels itself as the “Uber for weed"— and it lives up to that daring comparison! If you discover yourself in qualified California cities willing to deliver marijuana products legally (ahem_), Eaze might be your ticket into highly paid gig work.

Since they're essentially couriering joy wrapped in green (literally), these delivery drivers enjoy lucrative tips propelling their hourly rates between $18 to $26.

Transparency lies at the heart of Eaze’s ethos; however, they have stringent driver requirements, including thorough background checks, so aspiring candidates should be warned/aware.

If you tick their boxes, it's simple enough: log onto their website or download their app and kick off your journey.

Eaze advocates one surprising perspective; sometimes controversial gigs aren't necessarily unrewarding.

OnTrac

Compared to other freelance gigs on this list, OnTrac offers independent contract opportunities that differ slightly - OnTrac focuses on parcel deliveries!

This role is an excellent fit for people who prefer hopping around town delivering packages instead of pizzas. Its footprint ranges from same-day deliveries to overnight shipping across the Western United States.

The pay structure is dependent on package volume; thus, variability defines earnings here. Most couriers claim earnings within the $14 - $25 per hour bracket after considering fuel and vehicle maintenance expenses.

You can sign up directly via OnTrac's website, and after explicit checks validating your information and vehicle, you can start collecting packages ASAP.

Aside from flexibility, what appeals most about OnTrac is the opportunity this platform provides for people inclined towards anonymity owing to limited customer interaction within job parameters.

Dispatchit

Playing its role in accelerating global technology-empowered logistics movement is Dispatchit.
It engages independent contractors 'vehicle owners, matching them with businesses needing prompt parcels.

There is no set wage since drivers get paid per delivery with earnings ranging between $12-$30 per task, which includes wait time compensation (now that's humane)! This way, drivers are given complete control over optimizing their earnings depending on how much or how quickly they work throughout a blessed day.

To apply as a driver, install the Dispatchit app suitably titled ‘Dispatch Drivers’, complete registration details then wait for approval before initiating deliveries.

A fantastic feature within Dispatch-it’s software allows real-time tracking so drivers know precisely where they’re going next, always keeping one step ahead!

Dispatchit rejuvenates my faith in technology, creating harmony between local businesses requiring speedy deliveries and folks like us craving flexible income sources accommodating everyday commitments.

Lugg

In the mood for some heavy lifting (literally)? It's time to turn your muscles and vehicle into money with Lugg.

This state-of-the-art delivery service caters specifically to moving and furniture delivery — a nice departure from food and grocery gigs.

For those unfamiliar, Lugg is an app that connects you with people who need help moving, hauling or delivering large items. Think of it as "Uber for moving." And big moves mean big bucks!

While the earnings can significantly vary based on job size and distance, what I've learned through the grapevine suggests Lugg movers earn around $18-$25 per hour—not too shabby! Earnings get credited via direct deposit weekly — a neat perk if instant gratification is your thing.

No clue about signing up? Fret not—it couldn't be easier. Download their app, fill out the application form, and provide proof of license, insurance, registration, and vehicle.

The beauty of Lugg lies in its simplicity—help people on their moving day (often labeled as one of life's most stressful events) and get handsomely paid for your services.

Wonolo

Are you all about flexibility but want variety in your roles? Well folks, presenting Wonolo—a platform that connects workers (Wonoloers) with immediate hourly or daily jobs from major companies. Yup…you heard that right.

The best part about Wonolo: It houses myriads of work categories ranging from administrative roles to event staffing.

You can work your regular nine-to-five job on weekdays, switch to bartending gigs every Saturday night or packaging products on Sunday morning. A remarkable departure from the monotony if you ask me!

Moving onto moolah matters…the average pay oscillates between $11-$16 per hour across various jobs listed on Wonolo.

The intuitive interface makes job acceptance quick; browse through listed jobs suiting preferences, accept one suiting your style/schedule – presto! Pack those messy unrequited job apps away!

I love how they make sign-up simple; after downloading the app – follow prompts to complete the basic information form & background check…then BOOM! The many-colored world of varied gigs awaits you.

One cannot help but laud Wonolo for its unique model incentivizing freedom typical jobs won't offer – a terrific option for those who believe variety is the spice of life!

SkipTheDishes

Who wouldn't like being surrounded by yummy food at all times? Especially when you're getting paid well for it! Enter - SkipTheDishes.

It's an on-demand food delivery platform serving North America, which means vast opportunities knocking at many doors.

A courier partner can anticipate earning around $14 - $20 per hour based on the location and time frame of deliveries – quintessential variables considered while estimating gig economy earnings.

I admire how SkipTheDishes has kept its sign-up process hassle-free: download their courier app -> submit appropriate information -> approve background checks -> partake in a short online training session, -> get your courier gear — Simple as pie!

What this platform brings to your table (pun intended), apart from astonishing earnings, is an effortless way to mingle with hungry patrons awaiting their desired delicacies while exploring city delights block by block…all at YOUR convenience.

FAQs About Flexible Jobs Like Instacart

Conclusion

The landscape for flexible jobs like Instacart has expanded significantly. Several alternative sites have emerged, catering to the needs of gig workers seeking flexible opportunities.

Platforms like Craiglist, Indeed, Jobscribe, and Upwork offer diverse options, from grocery delivery to ridesharing and freelance projects.

Each forum has unique perks and drawbacks, so job seekers must assess their preferences and priorities.

Embracing the gig economy can empower individuals with flexible schedules and income streams, making it essential to explore these emerging platforms for a fulfilling and adaptable work-life in the modern era.