How To Schedule Instagram Reels

Can you schedule Instagram Reels to post automatically?

Yes, you can! With the right creative tools and strategies, scheduling Instagram Reels is not only possible but also incredibly effective.

Instagram Reels have taken the platform by storm. According to recent data, Reels generate 22% more engagement compared to other post types on Instagram. However, posting consistently at the right times can be a challenge for busy creators and brands.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to schedule Instagram Reels step-by-step, along with tips to optimize your content and maximize engagement.

How Reels Differ from Other Content Types:

• Reels: Ideal for reaching new audiences through Instagram’s Explore page and trending hashtags.

• Posts: Best for showcasing static content or long captions.

• Stories: Great for real-time updates that disappear after 24 hours.

Reels stand out because of their ability to boost reach and engagement. Instagram data shows that Reels generate 22% more interaction compared to standard posts, making them a must-have in any Instagram strategy for growing your audience and driving results.

Requirements for Scheduling Instagram Reels

Account Type: You must have an Instagram Creator or Business account. A personal Instagram profile cannot currently schedule Instagram Reels.

Facebook Connection: Your Instagram account needs to be connected to a Facebook Page to use third-party scheduling tools or Meta Business Suite. This process can be challenging, especially if many people have linked their accounts to a page they no longer control. However, there are solutions available for why you are unable to schedule Instagram posts.

Account Age: Avoid using a brand-new Instagram account. While there’s no official waiting period, it’s generally recommended to have an established account with some posts before scheduling Reels. If you just created your account, just post the first 10 posts manually and then schedule Reels.

Video Specs:

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical format)

• Frame Rate: 30 FPS

• File type: MP4 or MOV, with a maximum size of 4GB

• Resolution: At least 720p (HD) [Check Instagram Reel Sizes]

Video Length: Reels can be between 15 and 90 seconds long. Choose the length of new reel that best fits your content. We recommend keeping your Reels less than 60 seconds as then these short videos can be cross-posted as YouTube shorts and even on other social media platforms.

Caption and Hashtags: Prepare your caption and hashtags in advance. Ensure the caption is within the 2,200-character limit and include 3-5 relevant hashtags for broader visibility.

How to Make Reels on Instagram

Creating a Reel is easier than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to connect with your audience. Here’s a quick overview to get you started:

1. Open Instagram: Tap the + icon and choose Reels.

2. Add Content: Record clips directly in the app or upload pre-recorded videos from your device.

3. Customize Your Reel:

   • Use Instagram’s music library to add trending audio.

   • Experiment with text, stickers, and different effects to make your Reel pop.

4. Fine-Tune and Optimize: Trim clips, adjust transitions, and write a compelling caption with relevant hashtags.

5. Publish or Schedule: Post it immediately or use scheduling tools to post it later.

While this quick guide is enough to get you started, creativity is the key to making your Instagram Reels stand out.

If you’re feeling stuck or want a deeper dive into advanced editing tools and techniques, strategies for going viral, or fresh content ideas, check out our comprehensive guide on How to Make Reels on Instagram. It’s packed with inspiration to take your Reels to the next level!

Ways to Schedule Reels on Instagram

Scheduling your Instagram Reels can greatly enhance your content strategy, similar to how you might schedule IG posts to maintain a consistent and lively feed.

There are three main methods to schedule your Instagram Reels:

• The native Instagram app

• Meta Business Suite

• Third-party schedulers (e.g., RecurPost)

Let’s explore these methods so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and start saving time for your content creation process.

How to Schedule Instagram Reels for free using the Instagram App on Android/iOS

Instagram allows you to schedule up to 25 Reels per day and plan content up to 75 days ahead. This feature is available only for Business and Creator accounts. This handy feature lets you plan and publish your Instagram Reels in advance, saving you time and keeping your content calendar organized.

Follow these simple steps to schedule your posts:

Step 1: Create Your Reel

Open the Instagram app and tap the “plus sign” (+) at the bottom of the screen or swipe right.

Select “Reel” from the menu.

Step 2: Edit and Add Details:

Here’s your creative space! Add video from the camera roll or record your video, add music, stickers, AR effects, and create any text overlays you want.

After editing, tap the “Next” to move forward after editing.

Workarounds to Add Links to Reels

Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct way to add clickable links within Instagram Reels themselves. Here are two alternative approaches to consider:

o   Link in Bio:

• While creating your Reel, add text that mentions the link and instructs viewers to “check the bio” for details.

• In your Instagram bio, update the link to the relevant webpage you want viewers to visit.

o   Use Instagram Stories:

• If your account allows adding links to Stories (all accounts do now!), you can create a short Story after posting your Reel.

• Within the Story, use the Link sticker and paste the desired URL.

• Mention the Story in your Reel’s caption, prompting viewers to swipe up for more information.

Step 3: Add other elements to your Instagram Reels

Add a cover image for your Reel. This cover photo is the first thing viewers will see, so make it stand out.

While on the “Share” screen, tap the “Edit Cover” image preview.

You can choose a still image from your Reel by dragging the slider across the reels footage, or pick a custom image from your phone’s gallery.

Tag People: You can tag people in your Reel’s caption after posting.

Audience Select: This option is only available for paid promotions and allows you to target a specific audience for your boosted Reel.

Add Topics: Go to More Options > Add Topics. This feature is currently in testing and may not be available to everyone. It allows you to categorize your Reel with relevant topics, potentially increasing discoverability.

Step 4: Schedule your Instagram Reel

Tap on “More Options” to reveal some hidden options.

Look for the toggle switch labeled “Schedule.” Slide it to the right to schedule IG reels.

Select the date and time to schedule your Instagram reel. [Check the best US posting times]

Step 5: Double-Check and Schedule:

With the date and time set, tap “Done” to save your scheduling settings.

Review your Reel one last time, and then tap “Schedule” at the bottom of the screen.

Instagram will hold onto your Reel and publish it automatically at the chosen time.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully scheduled your Instagram Reel for free using the Instagram app. Now you can sit back, relax, and let Instagram automatically post it while you focus on creating more amazing content!

Note: According to the guidelines given by Instagram, a user can schedule a maximum of 25 reels per day and up to 75 days in advance on Instagram mobile app.

Manage Scheduled Instagram Reels

You can view and manage your scheduled Reels anytime! Just tap the “+” button again.  Look for the “Scheduled” option next to “Recents”. Here you can see your upcoming post or Reels, edit them, reschedule them for a different time, or delete them as needed.

For a detailed guide on scheduling Instagram posts and stories also without using any third-party apps, check out our blog post.

How to Schedule Instagram Reels for Free Using the Meta Business Suite on PC/App

Meta Business Suite (previously known as Creator Studio) offers a more nuanced approach to scheduling your Instagram Reels, providing an array of options for customization and a user-friendly interface to manage your content across both Facebook and Instagram.

Yes, you can schedule Instagram Reels on Meta Business Suite for free, allowing you to streamline your content strategy and ensure your posts go live at optimal times without manual intervention. If you want to schedule Instagram Reels on pc the also you can use a tool like Meta business suite.

All you need is a Facebook account with a page linked to the Instagram account you wish to manage. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Link Your Accounts: Ensure your Instagram account is properly linked to your Facebook page. This connection is vital for accessing the full range of scheduling features available in Meta Business Suite.

2. Explore Customization Options: Meta Business Suite allows you to dive deep into customization, offering the ability to add descriptions, tags, and more to your scheduled Reels. You can tailor your posts to fit your brand’s voice and audience’s preferences.

3. Access More Features: Apart from scheduling, you’ll find a wealth of features to enhance your social media strategy, including insights, messaging management, and content creation tools.

To get a detailed, step-by-step process you can visit the how to schedule your Instagram Reels with Meta Business Suite guide.

This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make the most of Meta Business Suite’s powerful scheduling capabilities.

How to Schedule Instagram Reels with RecurPost via Mobile App

While the Instagram native app and Meta Business Suite are effective for scheduling your content, you may require more advanced solutions for a comprehensive social media strategy. This is where robust social media scheduling tools like RecurPost become essential.

This platform not only allows you to schedule Instagram Reels but also provides a range of features designed to enhance your overall social media engagement.

Here is step by step process to schedule your IG reels through RecurPost via mobile App:

Step 1. Download the App: Install RecurPost from the Play Store or App Store.

Step 2. Sign Up: Create an account and select a suitable plan.

Step 3. Add Social Accounts: Tap “Add Social Accounts” and select “Instagram.”

Step 4. Link to Facebook: Link your Instagram via Facebook by logging into your Facebook account and following the prompts.

Step 5. Create a Post: Tap “Share a Post” option

Step 6. Select Accounts: Tap on the “+” to pick your Instagram account and confirm by tapping “Done.”

Step 7. Upload Reel: Select the “media” icon and select “upload a video” from your device.

Step 8. Write a Caption: Add a caption with relevant hashtags.

Step 9. Customize for Reels: Tap “Customize,” choose “Instagram,” select “Reel,” and upload a thumbnail if needed.

Step 10. Schedule the Reel: Toggle “Schedule Post,” set the date and time, or use the “Auto-schedule for best time” option.

Step 11. Confirm: Tap “Schedule” to finalize.

Now, with your Instagram Reel scheduled, you can relax and focus on creating more engaging content, knowing that your post will automatically go live at the best time for your audience.

If you’re looking for more tools, check out this list of the top apps that schedule Instagram posts to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Similarly, you can also use the RecurPost desktop app to schedule Instagram posts from your desktop.

Tips to Optimize Instagram Reels and Maximize Engagement

1. Hook Viewers in the First 3 Seconds

Instagram users scroll quickly, so your first three seconds are critical. To grab attention:

• Start with a bold or intriguing statement.

• Use eye-catching visuals, like a quick transition or vibrant scene.

• Pose a question or introduce a problem that your Reel will solve.

Why it works: Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content that keeps viewers watching until the end. A strong hook increases watch time, which signals the algorithm to promote your Reel.

2. Use Trending Audio

Leverage popular or trending songs to boost your Reel’s visibility. Instagram often pushes Reels that use trending music or audio because they’re more likely to engage users.

• Look for trending sounds with an upward arrow in Instagram’s audio library.

• Keep your niche in mind—use audio that aligns with your brand and audience.

Pro tip: Add your own twist and add music to the trend to make your Reel unique while staying relevant.

3. Add Text Overlays Strategically

Incorporate text overlays to reinforce your message, especially in the first few seconds. Text also makes your content accessible to viewers who watch without sound.

• Highlight key points, steps, or calls-to-action.

• Use bold, easy-to-read fonts and ensure they’re visible throughout the video.

Why it works: Studies show that videos with captions or text overlays get 16% more engagement on average.

4. Optimize for Mobile Viewing

Reels are designed to be viewed on mobile devices, so make sure your content is optimized for a vertical format (9:16 aspect ratio).

• Keep important elements—like text and visuals—within the “safe zone” to avoid being cut off.

• Use bright, high-quality visuals that stand out on a small screen.

5. Include a Call-to-Action (CTA)

Encourage viewers to take the next step. Some effective CTAs for Reels include:

• “Double-tap if you agree!”

• “Tag a friend who needs to see this.”

• “Follow for more tips!”

Why it works: Clear CTAs drive specific actions, which increase engagement and signal the algorithm to promote your Reel.

6. Use Relevant Hashtags

Hashtags help your Reels appear in search results and on the Explore page.

• Combine niche-specific hashtags (e.g., #FitnessTips) with broader ones (e.g., #Reels).

• Use a mix of 5–10 targeted hashtags to avoid looking spammy.

Pro tip: Experiment with trending hashtags related to your content to expand your reach.

7. Post at Optimal Times

Timing matters when it comes to engagement. Use Instagram Insights or third-party tools to find out when your audience is most active and post your Reels during those times.

Why it works: Posting when your audience is online increases the likelihood of immediate engagement, which boosts visibility.

8. Analyze and Adapt

Regularly review your Reels’ performance using Instagram Insights. Look at metrics like:

• Watch time: Are people staying until the end?

• Engagement: Which Reels get the most likes, comments, or shares?

• Reach: What’s helping your content get discovered?

Some troubleshooting errors that users may encounter

1. Connectivity Issues:

Your reel may fail to post at the scheduled time if there is an unstable internet connection.

So, ensure a stable and strong internet connection, especially close to the scheduled posting time. Consider scheduling posts when you know the connection is reliable.

Many times your scheduled reels on Instagram will not show up. Or you might not be able to schedule your reels on instagram at all. For those cases, we have a guide on the main reasons that prevent you from scheduling on Instagram.

2. Platform Limitations or Bugs:

Sometimes, scheduling tools or platforms may have bugs or limitations that prevent Reels from posting.

Solution? Regularly update your scheduling app to the latest version and check forums or support for any known bugs. If issues persist, contact the app’s customer support or consider using a different scheduling tool.

3. Access and Permission Issues:

If permissions are not properly set or if the account credentials have changed, scheduled posts may not go live.

Hence, regularly check and update access permissions for all linked accounts. Ensure that the scheduling platform has the necessary permissions to post on your behalf. If you change any passwords or account settings, update these in the scheduling tool as well.

To enhance your Instagram marketing strategy further, be sure to explore our comprehensive guide on the Best Instagram Tools for Marketers 2025.

Begin Scheduling Your Reels Today!

Being honest! It’s hard to post Reels consistently and manually at the right time.

You might miss the perfect posting window that can reduce your content’s impact, meaning fewer views and lower engagement.

A tool like RecurPost simplifies the process, providing everything you need to manage, schedule, and optimize your Reels all in one place. Start your 14-day free trial today and experience the impact of scheduling for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I schedule Instagram Reels directly through the Instagram app?

Yes, Instagram does support direct scheduling of Reels within the app. However, you can also use third-party tools like Recurpost or the Meta Business Suite for a more enhanced experience.

 2. What are some recommended tools for scheduling Instagram Reels?

Some popular tools for Instagram post planning include Meta Business Suite, Later, Buffer, Hootsuite, and RecurPost. Each offers different features, so choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

3. How far in advance can I schedule my Instagram Reels?

The timeframe for scheduling your Instagram reels in advance can vary depending on the tool you are using. Typically, Instagram natively allows it up to 75 days in advance, while most scheduling tools allow you to schedule posts weeks or even months ahead. Check the specific capabilities of your chosen scheduling tool for precise details.

4. Why can’t I schedule reels on Instagram?

There could be several reasons, including internet connectivity issues, errors in scheduling time or date, or limitations with the scheduling tool. Ensure your tool is updated, double-check the scheduled time and date, and verify that your account has the necessary permissions.

5. Why can’t I Schedule Instagram Reels on Meta Business Suite?

If you can’t schedule Instagram Reels on Meta Business Suite, ensure you have a creator or business account, your Instagram is linked to a Facebook Page, and you have the latest app version. Sometimes features roll out gradually, so it might not be available in your region yet.

6. Can I edit a Reel after scheduling it?

Most scheduling tools allow you to edit your own reel clips and scheduled content before it goes live. However, once the Reel is posted on Instagram, you will need to edit it directly through the Instagram app, which may have some limitations compared to the original editing options.

7. How to schedule posts on Instagram from a mobile phone?

You can use the native Instagram app or a third-party tool to schedule a reel or any other post on Instagram from a mobile phone. If you’re looking for detailed steps and additional methods, check out our guide on How to Schedule Instagram Posts for a comprehensive walkthrough.

8.Can you schedule posts on Instagram?

Yes, you can schedule Instagram posts using tools like Meta Business Suite or third-party platforms such as RecurPost. These tools let you plan posts in advance, including captions, hashtags, and images.

Shalini Nagar

Shalini Nagar is an experienced content writer with a proven track record of creating diverse and engaging content across various formats. With years of expertise in crafting blogs, articles, she excels at delivering compelling narratives tailored to different audiences.