How to Schedule Instagram Reels via API
Publish short-form vertical videos as Instagram Reels using the PostFast API. Control grid visibility and add collaborators programmatically.
Instagram Reels are short-form vertical videos (up to 90 seconds) that appear in the Reels tab and can also be shared to your profile grid. Using the PostFast API, you can schedule Reels programmatically by setting instagramPublishType to "REEL".
Reels are Instagram's answer to TikTok and YouTube Shorts, offering higher reach potential than regular feed posts. The algorithm prioritizes Reels, making them essential for growth strategies.
Key capabilities when scheduling Reels via API include grid control (choose whether the Reel appears on your profile grid), collaborators (tag other Instagram accounts), and precise scheduling for optimal engagement.
API Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
instagramPublishType | string | Type of Instagram post to create TIMELINESTORYREEL |
instagramPostToGrid | boolean | Post to profile grid (for Reels) |
instagramCollaborators | string[] | Array of Instagram usernames for collaboration |
Code Example
const response = await fetch('https://api.postfa.st/social-posts', {
method: 'POST',
headers: {
'pf-api-key': 'YOUR_API_KEY',
'Content-Type': 'application/json'
},
body: JSON.stringify({
"posts": [
{
"content": "Check out this amazing Reel! #reels #instagram #viral",
"mediaItems": [
{
"key": "video/f1a2b3c4-d5e6-7890-1234-567890abcdef.mp4",
"type": "VIDEO",
"sortOrder": 0
}
],
"scheduledAt": "2025-01-31T10:00:00.000Z",
"socialMediaId": "770g0611-h4bd-53f6-c938-667877661003"
}
],
"controls": {
"instagramPublishType": "REEL",
"instagramPostToGrid": true,
"instagramCollaborators": [
"collaborator_username"
]
}
})
});
const data = await response.json();
Did You Know?
Tips
Set instagramPostToGrid: false if you want the Reel to appear only in the Reels tab, not cluttering your main feed aesthetic
Collaborators must approve the collaboration request before the Reel appears on their profile
Use vertical 9:16 video for maximum screen real estate and algorithm favor
Include trending audio references in your caption for discoverability (the API doesn't add audio, but captions help)
Schedule Reels, Stories, and Feed posts from one API
Common Pitfalls
If you don't set instagramPublishType: "REEL", your video will post as a regular feed video, missing out on Reels algorithm benefits.
Horizontal videos will still post but will appear letterboxed with black bars, reducing engagement significantly.
Collaborator usernames must be exact (without @). Invalid usernames won't cause an error but the collaboration won't be sent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between REEL and TIMELINE for videos?
REEL publishes to the Reels tab with full Reels algorithm distribution. TIMELINE publishes as a regular feed video. Reels typically get 2-3x more reach.
Can I add music to Reels via API?
No, the Instagram API doesn't support adding music. You must add music to your video file before uploading, or edit the Reel in the Instagram app after posting.
What happens if a collaborator declines?
The Reel still publishes to your account normally. It just won't appear on the collaborator's profile. There's no API notification of declined collaborations.