The demand for delivery drivers has opened more opportunities in the gig and also has a positive impact in economy as it continues to expand. How many companies are currently employing new people, how would it feel to work for the company and what kind of salary will you be earning.
People nowadays are more drawn to the convenience offered to them. Since people are busy most of the time, it’s easier when their groceries, packages, prescriptions and restaurant meals are delivered instead of having to run errands during their limited free time.
If you’d like to earn some additional money and you know your neighborhood and local area very well or you spend most of your day in your car, use this opportunity to your advantage by making deliveries as a side hustle.
Earn Money from Food Deliveries
The last thing people think about when they are busy, is going to the grocery store or going to a restaurant to eat. They instead opt for food delivery services to make things easier for them. You can use this opportunity to your advantage and join a delivery app and make some extra cash by making delivery during your free time.
1. DoorDash
DoorDash is a deliver app for drivers who deliver food from local restaurants to customers. A customer will make an order using the app, then a delivery driver will collect it from the restaurant and deliver it to the customer’s office, home or other location. The service and delivery fees are determined by the restaurant the customer chooses.
A new driver will be able to download the DoorDash app and start earning money after around 1 or 2 weeks of being accepted. The driver can even decide to schedule their shifts or begin making deliveries immediately by clicking on “Dash Now.”
How to Get Started
If you’d like to join DoorDash, you’ll be required to go online and fill out an application form and wait for them to conduct a background check. If you qualify, you’ll receive an Activation Kit containing an insulated bag and a prepaid debit card also referred to as a “Red Card” which you’ll be using to pay for the food you collect from different restaurants.
Requirements
In order to qualify as a “Dasher” you have to:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Not have any major violations within the past 7 years.
- Own a bicycle or car.
- Have more than 3 moving violations or accidents within the past 3 years.
Income/Salary Earned
For each delivery you’ll be paid between $9 to $12 inclusive of tips. Check out our DoorDash driver review for more information about the job.
2. Instacart
Instacart provides its customers with same-day grocery deliveries and pick-up for people who shop using the Instacart app and shop online from local grocery stores. Once a customer is done shopping, they’ll be able to request for a personal shopper who will collect and deliver their shopping at their doorstep on the same day.
Unlike most shopping apps, Instacart provides its users with two options: in-store and full-service only. full-service customers are able to shop for other people’s orders and deliver it to them at their doorstep. In-door shoppers will only be able to shop for and prepare the items on behalf of the customers and wait for them to pick up the order. The latter offers more flexibility, especially for someone who doesn’t have a car.
Related: This Instacart Shopping Expert Was Able to Make $3,000 within 24 Hours
How to Get Started
Fill in an online application by visiting Instacart’s website, providing your personal information. Once you’re done with the application form, you’ll receive a message giving you a link where you can use to download the Instacart app. After downloading the app, you can choose whether you want to become an in-store or full-service shopper and decide on the kind of orders are perfect for your schedule.
Requirements
If you want to become a full-service shopper on Instacart, you have to:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Can easily lift 50 pounds without assistance.
- Have access to a smartphone or vehicle.
- Are qualified to work in the US.
To qualify as an in-store shopper, you require all the requirements mentioned above apart from having a car.
Salary/ income Earned
The payment varies between $20 to $16 hourly plus tips.
For more information about joining Instacart, read our Instacart Shopper review.
3. Postmates
If you’re looking to earn a living as a delivery driver, you can join Postmates since they employ drivers to deliver restaurant meals, groceries and other goods to customers. You’ll be paid for the number of orders you complete, miles driven and waiting time between orders within an hour. One of the best advantages of working with Postmates unlike other food delivery companies is that you’ll be able to keep 100% of the money you get as tips.
Drivers can enable alerts on your phone so that you’re notified each time a new delivery request comes up. You will then choose whether you want to accept or request the delivery request, or apply for auto-accept where you’ll be given deliveries automatically. If you choose auto-accept, you won’t be able to reject the deliveries assigned to you.
How to Get Started
When you join to become a Postmates delivery driver, you’ll be required to confirm some information as well as let them conduct a background check. The company will then send you a start-up kit comprising of a delivery bag and a prepaid credit card. Once you’re cleared and you get the welcome kit, you can proceed to download the activate the prepaid card and download the app so that you can start delivering items to customers.
Requirements
Before you can qualify as a Postmates delivery driver, you have to:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Pass the background check.
- Can access a bike, car, scooter, van or truck.
- Own a smartphone.
Salary/ Income Earned
Your salary will range from $10 to $20 every hour inclusive of tips. For more information check out our Postmates Driver Review.
4. Shipt
Shipt is a grocery delivery service owned by Target, allowing customers to order their groceries from the website or app. Shipt shoppers have the ability to shop for customers and then deliver the items within an hour. Customers are required to pay a membership and delivery fee every month especially if the only shop for things for less than $35.
How to Get Started
Start by filling in the Shipt Shoppers application form, where you’ll have to provide basic info such as you age, name and driving experience. You’ll then have to wait to be approved for about 24 to 48 hours. Once you’re approved, you can proceed to download the Shipt app and get trained on where and how the deliveries are made, learn how the app is navigated and the shopping rules that need to be followed. You’ll have to take a test at the end of your training which you have you pass before you can begin making deliveries.
Requirements
To qualify as a Shipt Shopper, you need:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Own a smart phone.
- Have valid car insurance as well as a driver’s license.
- Can lift up to 40 pounds.
- Can navigate the app without difficulty.
- Have insulated cooler bags.
- Your car should be at least from 1997 or newer.
Salary/Income Earned
The salary ranges from $16 to $22 hourly inclusive of tips. For more info read our Shipt Shopper review.
5. Uber Eats
Uber Eats is an online app for food ordering and delivery. Customers can order meals from hundreds of restaurants that partners with Uber Eats by placing an order via the app, and then waiting for their delivery. The delivery fees are determined by the distance between the restaurant and the customer’s location.
Uber eats also has an alternative option that enables their employees to be Uber rideshare drivers.
How to Get Started
Begin by downloading the app and applying to be a driver. There are a couple of upload documents and digital forms that you’ll need to complete as a form of background check. You can then add your debit card or link your bank account to the app before you can get paid. After approval is made, you’ll be able to see what delivery jobs are available within your location through the app. You can then accept the jobs you want.
Requirements
The requirements are determined by whether you’re going to be using a bike, car or scooter. If you’re going to be using a scooter or bike to make deliveries, don’t forget to select the option during registration.
Requirements for Car Delivery
- Pass the company’s background check.
- Are old enough to qualify as a driver in your area.
- Your car should be a 2-door or 4-door model that was manufactured in 1999 or later.
- Be an experienced driver (at least one-year experience).
- Own a valid car insurance, registration and driver’s license.
Delivery Requirements for Scooters
- Pass the company’s background check.
- Be 19 years of age or older.
- Own a valid insurance, registration and driver’s license.
- Own a motorized scooter below 50cc.
Delivery Requirements for Bike
- Be 18 years or older.
- Own a smartphone.
- Pass the company’s background check.
- Hold a government ID.
Salary/ Income Earned
You’ll earn between $10 to $15 hourly inclusive of tips.
Related: 9 Ideal Methods of Earning Passive Income Using Your Car
6. Caviar
Caviar is a reliable meal delivery and food ordering company that handles fine dining, local and independent gourmet restaurants. The company has partnership with restaurants located in metro areas and selected cities, providing people with a quick and easy way to order food. Also available are some additional separate features which are provided by other delivery services such as an occupational accident insurance policy for free, a no driver rating system and higher rates.
How to Get Started
For you to become a Caviar driver, you’re required to create and account and fill in an online application. If you qualify for the job, the company will send you an email asking you attend a remote or in-person orientation. The email contains all the required information for your orientation, so remember to have all the documents on hand.
You should also be living near or within the locations that Caviar caters to. They include Los Angeles, Boston, Dallas, San Francisco and Philadelphia, but it would be better to check the company’s website for a current list.
Requirements
To qualify as a courier on Caviar, you need:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Pass the company’s background check.
- Own a smartphone.
- Have a scooter, bike, motorcycle or car.
- Be an experienced driver (of at least 2 years).
Salary/ income Earned
A courier’s salary is estimated at $25 hourly, although this depends on the areas you deliver to, the number of orders you take, how much a customer uses in one purchase and tips.
Related: How You Can Earn $500 Quickly When Urgently Needed
7. GrubHub
GrubHub is one of the most comprehensive and self-described food delivery service that can be found in over 4,000 locations. Customers can use the company’s website, app or by phone to order food from restaurants within their area and wait for it to be delivered to their office, hotel room, home or dorm room. The best thing about being a delivery driver at GrubHub is that you can set your work shifts.
GrubHub is a member of Seamless, meaning that you can sign up on either of the apps and be able to drive for both of them.
How to Get Started
Start by completing a GrubHub online application for or register through their app. Once your application is submitted, you’ll be required to participate in a short survey enabling the company to know more about you. You’ll also be asked to avail different documents such as a valid car registration, driver’s license and details of your bank account. The company will then conduct a mandatory background check.
If you pass the background check and are qualified for the job, you’ll need to take part in an onboarding program where you’ll get a delivery bag before you can start making deliveries.
Requirements
If your 19 years or older (or over 21 in Las Vegas and Chicago), you can become a GrubHub driver. Other requirements include:
- Own a car (or a bike in certain areas).
- Have valid car insurance.
- Have a checking account.
- Have a valid state ID (for bike deliverers) or driver’s license (with a 2-year experience).
- Own an iPhone that has iOS11 or a better operating system, or an Android phone with at least a 5.0 or higher. The phone should have a valid data plan.
Salary/ Income Earned
Your salary will be determined by the delivery location and type of order made, but a driver earns an average of $12 every hour inclusive of tips. If you opt to make deliveries a block at a time, the company can increase your salary if you end up not making enough money per hour (this only applies on specific areas).
8. Local Restaurants
Most local areas have a variety of restaurants which offer residents with food delivery services. They may vary from chains such as Outback Steakhouse and Applebee’s or other locally-owned franchises. The restaurants may charge customers some delivery fees depending on where the food is being delivered to.
How to Get Started
Search the internet for local restaurants within your area that offer food delivery services to their customers. Visit Google and search for “restaurants offering food delivery services near me” or “food delivery jobs within my location.”
When you get local restaurants that you’d like to work for as a delivery driver, check out their website for guidance on how to apply for the job. If the restaurant is smaller than the average ones, you can visit the place in-person and apply.
Requirements
Every restaurant has certain requirements that they expect their delivery drivers to follow. However, most restaurants prefer hiring people who are at least 18 years or older, have a valid driver’s license, and own a reliable car with valid car insurance.
Salary/ Income Earned
Your salary will depend on the restaurant you’re working for.
Earn Money by Delivery Packages
Most people receive packages in their businesses and homes on a daily basis. This can be a great money-making venture if you don’t mind working as a package delivery driver.
9. Amazon Flex
Amazon used to rely on companies such as FedEx and UPS to handle their delivery requirements. Amazon currently has their own delivery program known as Amazon Flex. The driver working for the company are independent contractors who deliver things like groceries, traditional packages among other things to customers.
However, Amazon Flex doesn’t always have vacancies so ensure you check the company’s website for any available spots within your region.
How to Get Started
To be able to apply as a delivery driver on Amazon Flex, create an account with them and if you already have one, sign into your Amazon account. You’ll have to answer different questions including the areas you prefer delivering to and when you can work.
If your location requires a lot of deliveries to be done, you can start working immediately. If you cannot start immediately, the company will place you on a waitlist. Before you can become a fully-fledged delivery driver, you’ll be required to hand in your social security number, your bank account information and a copy of your driver’s license (a valid one).
Requirements
To work as deliver driver on Amazon Flex, you have to:
- Be 21 years or older.
- Own a pickup truck (should have a covered bed), van, SUV or a midsize sedan.
- Own a smartphone.
- Have a valid insurance police and a valid driver’s license.
Salary/ Income Earned
You’ll be earning between $18 to $25 hourly.
10. FedEx and UPS
FedEx and UPS are the oldest and leading delivery companies found in the US. FedEx relies on independent contractors to handle their deliveries, while UPS chooses to employ permanent employees or employ delivery drivers on a temporary basis.
Both companies have their own advantages, so before you apply for a job, conduct research on each of them and choose the one that is perfect for you.
How to Get Started
There’s a UPS page on the company’s website that is set aside for delivery drivers. Check out their page and look for available jobs for delivery drivers in your locality. Before you start working, you’ll be required to take part in a comprehensive training program.
FedEx has a Careers page containing all the information one needs to apply for any vacant job offers for delivery driver.
Requirements
The first step is to specify which company you’d like to work for. To qualify for as a FedEx or UPS delivery driver, you’ll be required to provide a valid driver’s license and should be willing to wear a uniform. Another requirement is that you need to be fit enough to lift packages weighing between 25 to 35 pounds.
Salary/ Income Earned
FedEx: You’ll earn at least $18 every hour.
UPS: You’ll earn $21 every hour and additional benefits.
11. Roadie
Roadie is a group of delivery drivers who earn a living by delivering packages to different areas. For instance, if you’re heading to California, you can collect a box of donuts and delivery it to a customer in another state. The delivery services are quite affordable and can be conducted by both individuals and businesses.
How to Get Started
You can complete an application form for drivers or join the company via your Facebook account. Once you’re deemed eligible, you’ll proceed to download the Roadie delivery app and check out the map for any available jobs.
You can click on the market provided to get more information about the job. You’ll get to know where the package is going, what is being transported and how much money you’ll make.
Requirements
To qualify as a Roadie driver, you require:
- Have a driver’s license that’s valid.
- Own a car (that’s in perfect condition).
- Pass the company’s background check.
- Have a valid insurance policy with accordance to your state’s requirements.
- Have a steady 4-star rating.
Salary/ Income earned
You’ll be making between $8 to $650 depending on how far you’re driving.
12. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a site for micro jobs where contractors and handy men are linked with clients that need their services. The services vary from delivering packages to clients, cleaning gutters and assembling furniture.
How to Get Started
Before you qualify as a “Tasker,” you’re required to register using your name, phone, email address and ZIP Code. When you receive an email letting you know of your approval, you’ll be required to take part in an onboarding session within your locality. Once the onboarding session is complete, you will be able to download the app and start completing task in your area.
Requirements
To qualify as a “Tasker,” you should:
- Be 21 years or older.
- Own a functioning car.
- Provide a Social Security number that’s valid.
- Pass the company’s background check.
Salary/ Income Earned
You’ll be receiving $30 every hour.
Related: 17 Ideal Places to Get Micro or Small Jobs
13. GoShare
GoShare is a commonly used app that helps connect businesses and individuals to delivery drivers and local moving companies. You’ll be able to book for the services you need before hand or at the last minute without losing the free estimate the company offers to its customers. Drivers are required to complete jobs with their personal vehicles like regular cars, cargo vans, box trucks and pickup trucks, depending on the type of job you’re qualified for and the kind of car you own.
Unlike other deliver apps, GoShare provides its drivers with liability and cargo insurance policies. An added advantage of working with the company is that you can be employed to work as a “helper”. Helpers are the people who handle jobs like heavy lifting, and are not required to use their vehicles to complete the tasks.
How to Get Started
You can complete an online application form where you’ll have to provide some personal information and information about the vehicle you own. Once you pass the background check, you’ll receive and email requiring you to watch the company’s orientation video. You’ll then have to provide your car for a background check as well as vehicle inspection. When all this is completed, you can proceed to upload any document in relation to your vehicle like proof of insurance and registration.
If your vehicle passes the inspection, you can then avail you bank details so that your payments can be deposited directly. You can then set up your profile on GoShare.
Note that you’ll be required to pay for your own background check. The company might reimburse you once you start working with them, but they won’t reimburse you for a failed background check.
Requirements
To qualify as a GoShare driver, you need:
- To be 18 years or older.
- Pass both the driving history and background check.
- You can speak English.
- Own a smartphone that can handle the app.
- Your vehicle should be younger by at least 15 years.
- Own a checking account where direct deposits can be made.
- Have a valid registration, driver’s license and car insurance.
Salary/ Income Earned
You’ll earn between $33 to $67 every hour (this depends on the type of vehicle you own) together with tips. Helpers earn an average of $39 hourly as well as tips.
Other Means of Earning Money by Making Deliveries
Although restaurant meals, groceries and packages are among the most commonly delivered items, there several other options. Disabled people and senior citizens who can no longer get to the pharmacy can pay for delivery services so that their medicine prescriptions can be filled and delivered to their door steps.
If you’re strong enough and can handle heavy lifting, delivering appliances or furniture is another great alternative. Most stores partner with third-party companies who employ independent contractors that can deliver larger items.
Another possibility is delivering beer, wine, mixers, liquor and ice. There are on-demand delivery services for alcoholic products such as Minibar and Drizly who partner with various liquor stores in different metro areas and cities. You can easily look for such stores within your locality, contact or visit them and see whether they are currently employing drivers.
There are also job opportunities that handle the delivery of legal documents to law firms, flowers or balloons from florists and linens to hotels, hospitals and other institutions. You can also get a gig driving cars from state A to state B.
Let’s not forget about state-specific and local apps. For example, apps such as Favor, Burpy and Burro are functional in the state of Texas and they provide driving jobs to driver things like takeout, groceries, packages and many others. If you’re in California, you can apply for a job with Eaze, a delivery service specifically for cannabis.
There are a lot of delivery jobs available everywhere. If you’d like to get one, look for opportunities for delivery gigs within your area.
Things to Consider
Before you apply for or take on any delivery job, there are a couple of things that you need to remember.
- Additional car expenses. Most delivery gigs need a driver to use their own car, and will therefore have to be in great shape. This means ensuring the car always has gas and regular oil changes too, tire rotations as well as other repair and maintenance services.
- Insurance costs. A lot of companies will only employ a delivery diver with a valid insurance policy and other insurance requirements. If you can barely pay for your current insurance policy or are using an expensive one, look for a much cheaper alternative.
- Personal safety. Although delivery driving provides you with a great opportunity to make some money, the job can be quite dangerous. You are never sure of the kind of people or situations you’ll encounter, so you should always be mindful of the environment you’re in. If in any given situation you sense danger, leave that area immediately and if possible, notify the police.
- Commissions and fees from apps. Most apps take a small percentage of the money you get in the form of fees or commissions. Find out how much will be removed from your delivery job earnings before taking it. This prevents you from experiencing any unexpected and unwanted financial surprises.
- Time spent delivering vs. income earned. It takes time to complete a delivery job. After accepting a gig, you’ll need to visit the place so that you can collect the package or order and deliver it to the customer’s destination. Don’t just jump for jobs without calculating whether they are profitable to you or not.
- An independent contractor’s taxes are not removed from their paycheck. You’re expected to pay for them by yourself, so don’t forget to set aside the right percentage from the earnings you get. Consult an accountant so that they can help you file your taxes.
Conclusion
Some people thing that they can’t complete delivery jobs if they don’t own a car. This is far from the truth. You can also use a bike, scooter or even travel by foot to make deliveries. If you’re lucky to get a job with a delivery company, they may give you a company vehicle or even give you enough time to borrow or rent one.
While delivery jobs are known as a great side hustle, it might not be the right gig for you. If making deliveries isn’t well suited for you, there are various other apps you can refer to help you make some money.
Related: 6 Companies That Pay People to Advertise on Their Cars
