Best Delivery Apps To Work

Given the plethora of food delivery applications available, you may be contemplating: What is the most proficient service to work for? Partaking in on-demand meal transportation has become one of the trendiest and extensively obtainable side hustles as we approach 2024. The increasing fondness for home-cooked meals has resulted in a boost in demand for novel drivers. An enticing factor is that delivering food presents a pliable and lawful medium to supplement your earnings and garner additional funds.

Best Food Delivery Service to Work for in 2024 | 10+ Delivery Apps to Try

1. Uber Eats

With over a dozen food delivery services to choose from, Uber Eats stands out as a top choice for flexibility. Envision a scenario where you have no boss, set your own hours, and cruise around town while listening to your favorite tunes.

Uber Eats drivers have the option to deliver using a car, scooter, bike, or even on foot in certain markets.

Requirements to Drive With Uber Eats:

Meet the minimum age to drive in your city.
Have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the US (3 years if you are under 25 years old).
An in-state license is required.
Use an eligible 4-door vehicle — eligibility can be checked during the sign-up process.

No additional training is needed to get started, and once you pass the background check and accept the delivery terms, you can immediately begin accepting delivery requests.

What we appreciate about Uber Eats is its flexibility, allowing you to deliver on your own schedule. Here are some examples:

Open the Uber Eats app and pick up a delivery on your way home from work.
No weekend plans? Open the app and accept a few late-night deliveries.
Working from home during the day and need a break? Open the app and take a quick delivery or two.

Regarding Uber Eats pay, each fare is calculated based on time, distance, and any promotional pay, minus a service fee. However, delivery drivers always keep 100% of their tips.

Payment is made weekly through the app, and Uber Eats offers an Instant Pay option for drivers to receive immediate payouts to their personal debit cards — terms apply. Alternatively, drivers can sign up for the Uber Visa Debit Card and cash out earnings up to five times per day at no charge.

Pros and Cons of Driving With Uber Eats:

Pros	Cons
Instant Pay option for immediate cashouts	No guaranteed Uber Eats pay; earnings vary by location and delivery
Flexible hours that suit your schedule	Earnings and hours depend on the number of orders in the app
Low-stress side hustle focused on	After signing up, it may take a few days until you can take your first trip
picking up and delivering orders

Please note that the information provided is based on general experiences and may vary depending on individual circumstances and location.

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2. DoorDash

Since its launch in 2013, DoorDash has experienced substantial growth, reaching over 75 million Americans. According to Bloomberg Second Measure, DoorDash currently holds a dominant 65% market share. The platform facilitates the delivery of meals from both chain and local restaurants, as well as items from convenience stores, grocery stores, and drugstores in select markets. To enhance its grocery delivery services, DoorDash has recently added more partner grocery stores, aiming to compete with Instacart. Those who serve as delivery drivers for DoorDash, known as Dashers, have the flexibility to schedule their working hours in advance, with no minimum hour requirements.

DoorDash drivers enjoy flexible working hours and have the option to cash out their earnings at their convenience. Additionally, they can bring a friend along on deliveries. To become a DoorDash driver, individuals need to meet specific requirements:

Be at least 18 years old
Have access to a car, scooter, or bike (depending on the market)
Possess a valid driver’s license
Maintain auto insurance

DoorDash employs a straightforward driver pay formula known as the Dasher Pay Model, where earnings vary based on the specific order. Currently, DoorDash is testing a new pay option called Time Earnings Mode, giving drivers the opportunity to earn a guaranteed hourly rate along with 100% of tips. In 2019, DoorDash acquired Caviar, a high-end food delivery service known for its curated selection of restaurants. Although Caviar continues to operate independently, it now functions under the branding of DoorDash. Individuals interested in delivering for Caviar will go through the same sign-up process as DoorDash Dashers.

Here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of delivering for DoorDash:

Pros	Cons
Several driver incentives like Peak Pay and Challenges	No guaranteed hourly pay
Fast Pay option allows cashing out the day of delivery for a fee	Driver support only operates via chat
Flexibility to choose orders and bring someone along on deliveries
Ability to schedule hours in advance or drive whenever there’s availability
DoorDash offers grocery delivery, providing additional opportunities for Dashers

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3. goPuff

What Are Gopuff Ads? (Reach Consumers That Look For Convenience)

goPuff stands out as one of the premier delivery apps, offering a wide range of essentials, groceries, snacks, cleaning supplies, beverages, over-the-counter medicine, and even electronics. The service is currently available in 1,000 cities across the U.S. and Europe, with continuous expansion. What sets goPuff apart is its unique operational model – when customers place orders, the items are sourced from one of goPuff’s 200+ warehouses. Unlike other delivery services, drivers do not shop at various stores for each order. Delivery drivers are required to schedule orders in advance, and all deliveries are limited to a 30-minute radius from the warehouses.

To become a goPuff driver, individuals need to meet the following requirements:

Be at least 21 years old
Have access to an insured vehicle with proper vehicle registration
Possess a valid driver’s license
Own a smartphone
Successfully pass a background check

Drivers for goPuff receive a commission for each order, along with 100% of the tips. Additionally, there is a guaranteed hourly minimum pay, the amount of which varies based on the market.

Pros	Cons
– Drivers do not have to travel extensively to pick up deliveries, as all items come from a central delivery hub.	– goPuff may not be as widely recognized, potentially resulting in fewer opportunities for new drivers.
– There is a guaranteed minimum pay for drivers.	– Dealing with cash transactions may be required, posing the challenge of carrying significant amounts of cash while on duty.
– goPuff stands out as one of the premier delivery apps, offering a wide range of essentials, groceries, snacks, cleaning supplies, beverages, over-the-counter medicine, and even electronics.
– The service is currently available in 1,000 cities across the U.S. and Europe, with continuous expansion.
– What sets goPuff apart is its unique operational model – when customers place orders, the items are sourced from one of goPuff’s 200+ warehouses. Unlike other delivery services, drivers do not shop at various stores for each order.
– To become a goPuff driver, individuals need to meet specific requirements, including being at least 21 years old, having access to an insured vehicle with proper vehicle registration, possessing a valid driver’s license, owning a smartphone, and passing a background check.
– Drivers for goPuff receive a commission for each order, along with 100% of the tips. Additionally, there is a guaranteed hourly minimum pay, the amount of which varies based on the market.

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4. Instacart

Instacart, launched in 2012, has emerged as one of the most prominent grocery delivery services. It stands out as one of the best food delivery services to work for due to its dual working options: full-service and in-store shoppers.

Full-Service Shoppers: These shoppers manage customer orders through the app, conduct the shopping, and handle the delivery. They enjoy maximum flexibility, allowing them to choose their working days, times, and frequency.
In-Store Shoppers: This category involves taking orders through the app, performing the shopping, and organizing items for customer pick-up. In-store shoppers have a weekly limit of 29 hours or less, and they are categorized as part-time employees, distinct from independent contractors like full-service shoppers.

In early 2023, Instacart introduced the Scan & Pay feature, enabling shoppers to bypass the checkout line, saving time on orders.

Instacart Shopper Requirements:

Access to a car, a valid driver’s license, and car insurance
Minimum age of 18
Eligibility to work in the U.S.
Capability to lift 50 lbs

Instacart shoppers receive compensation based on the order’s size and complexity, coupled with the app’s activity level. They can now preview their estimated earnings before deciding whether to accept an order, providing transparency and informed decision-making.

Pros	Cons
Two Working Options: Instacart offers both full-service and in-store shopper roles, providing flexibility. In-store shoppers don’t require a car.	Scheduled Hours: Planning work hours in advance limits spontaneous availability.
Advanced Scheduling: The ability to schedule hours in advance allows for better weekly planning.	Heavy Baggage: Delivering groceries may involve carrying heavy bags.
Earnings Visibility: Shoppers can preview estimated earnings before accepting orders, promoting transparency.

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5. Grubhub

Grubhub, established in 2004, is considered a pioneer among food delivery services. Currently serving over 4,000 U.S. cities and partnering with 225,000+ restaurants, Grubhub primarily focuses on restaurant deliveries but has expanded to include convenience stores in select markets. Drivers for Grubhub are encouraged to schedule shifts in advance, yet flexibility remains as they can also drive whenever they have available time.

Grubhub Delivery Driver Requirements:

Age: At least 19 years old (21 in Chicago and Las Vegas)
Valid driver’s license and car insurance
Cell phone with a data plan (iOS 11 or higher or Android 5.0 or higher)

Grubhub employs a pay model that may seem complex, but it offers clarity on pay determinants, though it may vary by market.

Pros of Delivering for Grubhub	Cons of Delivering for Grubhub
Grubhub provides live phone-based support for delivery drivers in the U.S.	There are fewer incentives compared to other restaurant-based delivery services.
Customers are encouraged to tip generously, with default tips set at 15%.	Drivers are obligated to sign up for specific delivery locations.
Detailed information about orders is available in the app before accepting, including total payout (minus tip), pickup location, and drop-off location.

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6. Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex is a service offered by Amazon, where drivers are outsourced for Prime Now, AmazonFresh, and Amazon Restaurant Delivery. What sets it apart is the ability to deliver packages in addition to food, making it distinct from other top food delivery services. Drivers enjoy the flexibility to choose their working hours, but they are required to commit to 3-6 hour-long blocks. Additionally, drivers need to have insulated bags or coolers to ensure the proper handling of refrigerated or freezer items.

Amazon Flex Delivery Driver Requirements:

Drivers must be at least 21 years old.
Possess a valid driver’s license.
Drive a 4-door, mid-sized, or larger vehicle.
Have car insurance.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Amazon Flex:

Pros	Cons
Payouts are twice weekly, providing more frequent earnings compared to services that pay once a week.	Limited availability of driver openings may pose challenges for those looking to join.
Amazon Flex offers one of the higher hourly pays among delivery services.	Drivers are required to lift heavier packages, which may be physically demanding.
Consistent pay is earned regardless of completing deliveries ahead of schedule.

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7. Caviar

Caviar, once known for its upscale food delivery, transformed after DoorDash’s acquisition in 2019. Now offering a diverse menu, Caviar showcases everything from donuts to sushi, providing a broad culinary range for customers. While Caviar couriers are technically under DoorDash’s employment, the sign-up process aligns with DoorDash’s procedures.

Driver Requirements:

Age: Must be 18 years or older
Vehicle: Access to a car, scooter, or bike (varies by market)
License: Valid driver’s license number
Insurance: Auto insurance coverage

Caviar couriers follow DoorDash’s pay model, calculating Total Earnings through Base Pay, Promotions, and Tips. Base Pay, ranging from $2 to $10 per order, varies by delivery location. The inclusion of Promotions, such as Peak Pay hours and Challenges, enhances the appeal of Caviar as one of the best delivery apps to work for, offering additional earning opportunities for dedicated drivers.

Pros	Cons
– Order Transparency: View order details, including pay, before acceptance.	– Pay Variation: Delivery from a broader range of restaurants may impact driver pay.
– No Penalties: No repercussions for low order acceptance rates.	– Scheduled Hours: Requires drivers to schedule hours in the app, limiting flexibility.
– Efficient Delivery Areas: Smaller delivery zones may reduce dead miles.	– Ownership Impact: Since DoorDash’s acquisition, there has been a decrease in high-end restaurant deliveries.

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8. Shipt

Shipt, established in 2014 as an on-demand grocery delivery service, was acquired by Target in 2017 and has since expanded its reach to over 5,000 cities nationwide. While originally operating as a membership-based platform, Shipt now welcomes non-members to place orders, providing greater opportunities for Shipt shoppers. Shoppers, identified by their Shipt shirts, are vital in fulfilling the increased demand for deliveries. Notably, the top Shipt shopper recently achieved an impressive milestone of surpassing 20,000 deliveries.

Shipt Shopper Requirements:

Drivers must be 18 years old or older.
Possession of a valid driver’s license and insurance is mandatory.
A reliable vehicle, preferably a 1997 model or newer, is required.
Capability to lift 40 lbs or more is essential.
Insulated cooler bags are necessary for the delivery process.

Shipt stands out among the best food delivery services for shoppers, allowing them to efficiently handle multiple orders simultaneously, potentially increasing their earnings. The pay model underwent revision in the fall of 2020, incorporating dynamic variables such as drive time, total order items, time of day, and road traffic. Some drivers have reported slightly lower pay due to the intricacies of the new model. The app provides estimated earnings before order acceptance, a departure from the previous commission-based system, which consisted of $5 plus 7.5% of the order amount.

Pros	Cons
Shipt Shoppers receive a free membership.	Shipt shoppers must shop alone.
Visibility of earnings (minus tips) before order acceptance.	Not as widely available as some competitors.
Capability to shop for multiple orders simultaneously.
Substantial expansion facilitated by Target’s ownership.

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9. Favor

Favor, a Texas-based food delivery service, operates in major markets such as Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and several other cities, including Odessa, Amarillo, Temple, and San Antonio. Owned by H-E-B, a popular Texas-based food retailer, Favor utilizes delivery drivers known as “Runners” who can deliver using cars, trucks, motorcycles, or scooters.

Favor Delivery App Requirements:

Drivers must be at least 18 years old.
Possess an Android or iOS device.
Hold an active U.S. driver’s license.
Have a personal vehicle with insurance.
Maintain a bank account for direct deposit processing.

In Austin, Runners have the option to deliver via bicycle, requiring only an official ID, without the need for a driver’s license or vehicle insurance. Before commencing deliveries, Favor Runners must undergo a background check. Drivers receive 35% of the delivery fee along with 100% of their tips. Favor stands out among food delivery apps in Texas by offering hourly guarantees of $9-$10/hour as incentives for scheduled hours.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Favor:

Pros of Delivering for Favor	Cons of Delivering for Favor
1. Bicycle Delivery Option: In certain areas, you can deliver using a bike, eliminating the need for a car or driver’s license.	1. Limited Availability: Favor currently operates exclusively in Texas, limiting opportunities for drivers outside the state.
2. Competitive Driver Pay: Favor offers higher-than-average pay for its drivers.	2. Limited Recognition: Despite its popularity within Texas, Favor may not be as widely recognized as larger delivery companies.
3. Higher Hourly Guarantees: Drivers benefit from hourly guarantees that are above the industry average.

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10. Saucey

Saucey is a service dedicated to alcohol delivery, currently available in a limited number of U.S. cities, with plans for expansion. If the app isn’t yet accessible in your city, keep an eye out for its potential arrival. Presently, Saucey welcomes delivery drivers in cities such as Akron, Albany, Arlington, Atlanta, Austin, and many more. For those in California and New York, Saucey extends its services to include 2-day and ground shipping.

Requirements to Become a Saucey Driver:

Minimum age of 21
Reliable car from the year 2007 or newer
Smartphone
Insurance
Clean driving record

Saucey drivers are tasked with verifying IDs for each delivery, a noteworthy distinction from some other top delivery apps listed here.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Saucey:

Pros	Cons
Guaranteed minimum pay for scheduled time blocks	Lower-than-average driver pay
Flexibility in scheduling	Limited hours, especially considering alcohol delivery preferences
Requires drivers to be at least 21 years old

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11. Eaze

Eaze is a cannabis delivery service operating exclusively in California. Drivers for Eaze can earn between $18-$26/hour. To qualify as a driver, you need to be at least 21 years old, have a vehicle from the 2004 model year or newer equipped with a functional car alarm, a smartphone, vehicle insurance, a clean driving record, and must pass a criminal background check.

Eaze operates on a unique model where licensed cannabis dealers pay drivers an hourly rate along with mileage reimbursement at a rate of $0.545 per mile driven. This reimbursement, for instance, amounts to $27.25 for a 50-mile drive, contributing to the higher overall pay. Unlike other delivery services, Eaze drivers carry the cannabis supply in their vehicles, reducing the time spent shuttling between pick-up and delivery locations.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Eaze:

Pros	Cons
Eaze drivers make on the higher end among these delivery apps.	Eaze has the tightest driver requirements.
Drivers are reimbursed for their mileage.	It can take several weeks to be approved — one driver reported that it took 5 weeks after submitting their applications.

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12. Delivery

Delivery.com, based in New York City, specializes in delivering a variety of services including food, laundry, alcohol, and groceries. A unique feature for customers is the ability to earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for cash or donated to various charities. As one of the oldest services on our list, founded in 1995, Delivery.com operates in over 2,400 cities, collaborating with more than 19,000 merchants in the U.S.

Requirements for Delivery Drivers:

To become a delivery driver for Delivery.com, individuals must meet the following criteria:

Be 18 years or older
Possess a valid driver’s license
Provide proof of auto insurance
Own a smartphone
Successfully pass a background check

Upon signing up to deliver for Delivery.com, drivers are prompted to indicate their preferred working hours. This helps ensure a balanced distribution of drivers and avoids oversaturation during specific timeframes.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Delivery.com:

Pros	Cons
Minimal driver requirements	Lower pay compared to other delivery apps
Flexible working hours	Reports of disorganized company management
Diverse delivery options, including laundry and alcohol

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13. Bite Squad

Bite Squad: Delivering Delight to Your Doorstep!

Bite Squad is a smaller restaurant delivery service making waves in 14 states, including Arkansas, Florida, Hawaii, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Requirements to Become a Bite Squad Driver:

Drivers must be 18 years or older
Maintain a clean driving record
Possess a valid license and insurance
Use an iPhone or Android device
Successfully pass a background check

Delivery drivers leverage the Bite Squad app to conveniently schedule their preferred delivery blocks. During their shifts, they use the app to accept orders, pick up delicious meals from restaurants, and promptly deliver them to the eagerly waiting customers’ homes. The process mirrors that of many other top-notch delivery apps on the market.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Bite Squad:

Pros of Delivering for Bite Squad	Cons of Delivering for Bite Squad
1. Guaranteed Hourly Pay during peak lunch and dinner hours.	1. Possibility of working longer than expected despite scheduling.
2. Flexible scheduling of working hours in advance.	2. Reported challenges in communication with dispatch through the app.

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How to Choose Which Delivery App to Work For

When deciding which delivery app to work for, consider the following factors:

Service Availability:

Check if the app operates in your local area. DoorDash and Instacart generally have broader coverage compared to others.

Delivery Hours:

Evaluate the app’s delivery hours. DoorDash and Uber Eats offer more flexibility, operating throughout the day, while grocery delivery apps like Instacart and Shipt align with store hours.

Scheduling Flexibility:

Determine if the app requires scheduling in advance or allows on-demand logins. DoorDash and Uber Eats offer more on-demand flexibility, while others may require planned shifts.

Meet Requirements:

Ensure you meet the app’s requirements, such as age restrictions. Some apps, like alcohol delivery services, may have a minimum age requirement of 21.

Remember, you can work for multiple services simultaneously, allowing you to explore and optimize your earnings based on your preferences and schedule.

How to Make the Most Money Possible When Delivering

To maximize your earnings as a delivery driver, consider the following tips based on insights from real food delivery drivers:

Be Friendly and Courteous:

A positive attitude and friendly demeanor significantly impact tips. A simple smile and a “have a nice day” can go a long way in customer satisfaction.

Check Each Order Carefully:

Thoroughly review the customer’s order before delivery, ensuring accuracy. For restaurant deliveries, pay attention to details like sauces, napkins, and cutlery.

Communicate with Customers:

Keep customers informed, especially if there are delays or if an item is unavailable. Quick communication builds trust and can lead to increased tips.

Drive During Busy Periods:

Understand the peak hours for each delivery app. DoorDash, for instance, experiences high demand during lunch, dinner, late-night, and major events. Grocery delivery apps see increased activity during holidays and weekday evenings.

Take Deliveries En Route:

Optimize your time by accepting deliveries on your way to or from other destinations. This strategy allows you to fit in extra deliveries when you’re already on the road.

Try the Delivery Service:

Gain a customer perspective by ordering a delivery for yourself. This firsthand experience helps you understand the customer side, allowing you to identify ways to enhance the overall experience.

Implementing these tips can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased tips, ultimately maximizing your earnings as a delivery driver.

FAQ

Which delivery app pays more money to drivers?

Several delivery apps, including DoorDash, Instacart, and Amazon Flex, offer competitive earnings. Instacart stands out with the potential to earn up to $25 per hour, making it a favorable choice for drivers considering factors like work hours and coverage areas.

Can I use Google Maps to plan my route with multiple stops?

Yes, Google Maps allows planning routes with up to 10 stops. For handling more stops efficiently, consider utilizing route optimization software like Upper Route Planner.

Which is the most preferred app for delivery partners?

Delivery partners often prefer popular apps like Amazon, DoorDash, and Instacart due to favorable terms and ample opportunities for drivers.

What are some basic requirements for a delivery driver?

Basic requirements for a delivery driver typically include being at least 18 years old, possessing a valid driver’s license, having auto insurance, owning a reliable vehicle, and maintaining a clean driving record.

What criteria are used to select the top delivery apps?

Top delivery apps are selected based on criteria such as earning potential (including pay rates and tips), app functionality, the availability of driver support features, and the overall reputation of the app.

Are there any additional tools or apps that can complement delivery apps for better efficiency?

Certainly, route optimization software serves as an additional tool to enhance efficiency for delivery drivers. Apps like Upper provide real-time tracking and turn-by-turn navigation, contributing to improved productivity and customer satisfaction.

Which is The Best Food Delivery Service to Work For? The Final Word

These companies share remarkable similarities, which bodes well for those looking to earn a quick buck. The lack of unexpected variables means that regardless of the company you choose, it is likely established and reliable. Experienced drivers recommend enlisting in multiple firms due to being an independent contractor; numerous businesses even advocate this approach. While emphasized earlier, we advise taking heed by exploring DoorDash – currently the most prevalent food delivery service in America- as a starting point if making such decisions feels arduous.