Being a delivery driver for a food delivery service can provide a wide range of benefits, including flexible hours, financial rewards, personal growth opportunities, and more. It’s a great job for people who value independence, variety, and community engagement. I should know, I’ve done it both full-time and part time to supplement my income while I built my own business. If this sounds interesting to you, read on!
Number 1 – Flexible Hours
Flexible working hours are one of the most significant advantages of being a delivery driver for a food delivery service. This means that drivers have the freedom to choose when they want to work and for how long, which makes it an ideal job for people who need to work around their other commitments, such as school, family, or other jobs.
This flexibility allows drivers to manage their schedules in a way that suits them best. They can choose to work during peak hours when demand is high and earnings are most profitable. They can also take time off whenever they need it, without worrying about being penalized for doing so.
The ability to work flexible hours is particularly appealing for students who need to work while studying, or for parents who want to earn some extra income while also taking care of their children. It also benefits those who have other jobs, as they can work as delivery drivers outside of their regular working hours.
For example, a person who works a 9-5 office job can work as a delivery driver in the evenings and on weekends to earn extra income. They can also choose to work during lunch breaks or before and after their regular work hours.
Another benefit of flexible working hours is that it allows drivers to manage their work-life balance more effectively. They can take time off for personal appointments or events, without having to request permission from a boss or worry about losing their job. This can help to reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.
Moreover, the ability to work flexible hours allows drivers to set their own goals and work towards achieving them. They can work as much or as little as they want, depending on their financial needs and personal preferences. This level of control over their own schedule and income can be empowering and motivating.
In addition, flexible working hours can also help to reduce traffic congestion during peak commuting hours. By allowing drivers to choose their own working hours, they can avoid rush hour traffic and minimize their impact on the environment.
Overall, the flexibility of working hours is a significant benefit of being a delivery driver for a food delivery service. It allows drivers to manage their schedules in a way that suits them best, providing a level of freedom and control that can be difficult to find in other jobs. This flexibility can also help to reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and promote a better work-life balance.
Number 2 – Financial Rewards
Many delivery drivers can earn a decent amount of money, especially during peak hours or busy seasons. The earning potential varies depending on the company, location, and the driver’s own efforts, but in general, drivers can expect to make a decent income if they work hard.
One of the ways that drivers can earn money is through base pay. All of the major food delivery services offer a base pay rate for their drivers. This rate varies depending on the company and the location of the driver. In general, drivers can expect to earn anywhere from $10-$20 per hour in base pay.
In addition to base pay, many customers choose to tip their delivery drivers. Tips can be a significant source of income for drivers and can sometimes even exceed their base pay. Some companies allow drivers to keep 100% of their tips, while others may take a percentage of the tip as a commission.
Furthermore, some delivery services offer bonuses to drivers who complete a certain number of deliveries or work during peak hours. These bonuses can range from a few extra dollars per delivery to hundreds of dollars for completing a set number of deliveries within a specific time frame.
The earning potential of delivery driving can increase significantly during peak hours or busy seasons. For example, during major holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, the demand for delivery drivers can skyrocket. Drivers who work during these busy periods can make a considerable amount of money in a short amount of time.
Another factor that can affect the earning potential of a delivery driver is their own efforts. Drivers who are efficient, timely, and provide excellent customer service are more likely to receive higher tips and bonuses. They can also complete more deliveries in a shorter amount of time, which can increase their hourly earnings.
It’s important to note that the earning potential of delivery drivers varies depending on many factors, such as location, competition, and demand. Some drivers may make more money than others, depending on their unique circumstances.
Moreover, being a delivery driver for a food delivery service can also provide additional financial benefits, such as the ability to write off certain expenses on taxes. For example, drivers can write off the cost of their vehicle, gas, and other business-related expenses, which can help to reduce their tax burden.
Overall, the financial rewards of being a delivery driver for a food delivery service can be significant. Drivers can earn money through base pay, tips, and bonuses, and the earning potential can increase during peak hours or busy seasons. Additionally, delivery driving can provide additional financial benefits, such as tax write-offs.
Number 3 – Easy to Get Started
Getting started as a delivery driver for a food delivery service is relatively easy. Most companies have simple online applications, and the requirements are minimal. All you need is a reliable vehicle, a smartphone, and a valid driver’s license.
The first step to becoming a delivery driver is to find a food delivery service that you’re interested in working for. There are many different companies to choose from, including Doordash, Ubereats, Grubhub, Instacart, and others. Each company has its own application process, but in general, the process is relatively straightforward.
The application process typically involves filling out an online form and providing basic information about yourself, such as your name, address, and contact information. You’ll also be asked to provide information about your vehicle, such as the make and model, as well as proof of insurance and registration.
Once you’ve submitted your application, the company will review it and determine if you meet their requirements. Most companies require drivers to have a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and a reliable vehicle that is no more than 10 years old. Some companies may also require a background check or a driving history check.
If you meet the requirements, you’ll be invited to attend an orientation or training session, where you’ll learn more about the company, its policies and procedures, and how to use the delivery app. This training is usually provided online or in-person, depending on the company and the location.
After you’ve completed the orientation or training session, you’ll be ready to start delivering orders. You’ll receive notifications through the delivery app when there are new orders available, and you can choose which ones you want to accept. The app will provide you with the customer’s address and other details about the order, such as the items requested and the delivery time.
Overall, the process of becoming a delivery driver for a food delivery service is relatively easy. Most companies have simple online applications, and the requirements are minimal. All you need is a reliable vehicle, a smartphone, and a valid driver’s license. This makes it an accessible job for people who are looking to earn extra income, without having to jump through a lot of hoops or invest a lot of time and money in getting started.
Number 4 – Personal Growth Opportunities
Working as a delivery driver for a food delivery service can provide a range of personal growth opportunities. These can include developing skills such as time management, communication, confidence, and independence.
One of the key areas where delivery drivers can develop their skills is in time management. As a delivery driver, you must be able to manage your time effectively in order to complete your deliveries on time. This means planning your routes, estimating delivery times, and communicating with customers effectively. By developing strong time management skills, drivers can become more efficient and effective in their work, which can translate to other areas of their lives.
Another important area where delivery drivers can develop their skills is in communication. As a delivery driver, you must be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people, including customers, restaurant staff, and your employer. This requires strong communication skills, such as active listening, clear and concise speaking, and the ability to convey information effectively. By developing these skills as a delivery driver, you can improve your ability to communicate in other areas of your life, such as in your personal relationships or in the workplace.
Furthermore, working as a delivery driver can help to build confidence. By interacting with a wide range of people every day, drivers must be comfortable in their own skin and confident in their abilities. This can help to boost self-esteem and improve social skills. For people who are shy or introverted, delivery driving can provide an opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and engage with others more confidently.
Moreover, delivery drivers must take initiative and make decisions on their own. This can help to build self-reliance and independence. Drivers need to be able to manage their schedules, plan their routes, and make decisions about how to handle unexpected situations. By taking responsibility for their work, delivery drivers can develop a sense of autonomy and independence that can be valuable in other areas of their lives.
In addition to these personal growth opportunities, working as a delivery driver for a food delivery service can also provide a sense of purpose and meaning. Drivers can feel a sense of pride in delivering food or groceries to people who need it, particularly during times of crisis or hardship. This can be particularly fulfilling for people who want to make a difference in their community or who are looking for a job that provides a sense of purpose beyond just earning a paycheck.
Overall, working as a delivery driver for a food delivery service can provide a range of personal growth opportunities. From developing strong time management and communication skills to building confidence and independence, delivery driving can help you become a more well-rounded and capable person. It’s a job that can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, while also offering the flexibility and financial rewards that many people are looking for.
Number 5 – No Boss
As a delivery driver, you are your own boss. You have the freedom to make your own decisions and manage your own time, without someone looking over your shoulder. This level of autonomy can be incredibly appealing for people who value independence and flexibility in their work.
One of the primary benefits of being your own boss is that you have the freedom to set your own schedule. As a delivery driver, you can choose when you want to work and for how long. You can work as much or as little as you want, depending on your personal and financial goals. This can be particularly appealing for people who have other commitments, such as school, family, or other jobs. It allows them to work around their other responsibilities and manage their time more effectively.
Furthermore, being your own boss means that you have control over your own work. You can choose which orders to accept and which ones to decline, based on factors such as distance, payment, and customer rating. You can also choose which areas to work in, based on your own preferences and familiarity with the area. This level of control can be empowering and can help to improve job satisfaction.
Another benefit of being your own boss is that you can make your own decisions without someone looking over your shoulder. You can decide how to handle unexpected situations, such as a customer who isn’t home or a restaurant that is closed. You can also decide how to manage your own expenses, such as gas, maintenance, and other costs associated with using your vehicle for work. This level of autonomy can be particularly appealing for people who prefer to work independently and don’t like to be micromanaged.
Moreover, being your own boss can provide a sense of ownership and pride in your work. As a delivery driver, you are responsible for your own success. You can take pride in the fact that you’re providing a valuable service to your community and that you’re building your own business. This sense of ownership can be motivating and can help to improve job satisfaction.
In addition to these benefits, being your own boss can also provide financial rewards. As a delivery driver, you can earn money through base pay, tips, and bonuses. You can also write off certain expenses on your taxes, such as the cost of your vehicle and other business-related expenses. This can help to reduce your tax burden and increase your overall income.
Overall, being a delivery driver for a food delivery service can provide a level of autonomy and freedom that can be difficult to find in other jobs. You have the freedom to set your own schedule, make your own decisions, and manage your own expenses. This level of control can be empowering and can help to improve job satisfaction. It can also provide financial rewards and a sense of ownership and pride in your work.
Number 6 – Work Alone
If you enjoy working independently, being a delivery driver can be a great job for you. Most of the time, you’ll be driving and delivering orders, which can be a peaceful and meditative experience.
One of the benefits of working independently is that you can choose to work alone. As a delivery driver, you don’t need to interact with co-workers or managers on a regular basis. This can be particularly appealing for people who prefer to work independently and don’t like to be micromanaged. You can manage your own time, make your own decisions, and be your own boss.
Furthermore, being a delivery driver can provide a sense of freedom and adventure. You’ll be driving to different parts of your city or town, which can help to break up the monotony of a typical workday. You can explore new neighborhoods, try new restaurants, and discover new places. This sense of adventure can be particularly appealing for people who enjoy exploring and discovering new things.
Moreover, driving can be a peaceful and meditative experience. Many delivery drivers enjoy the quiet and solitude of being on the road. You can listen to music, audiobooks, or podcasts, or simply enjoy the silence. This can be a great way to relax and unwind, particularly for people who find traditional office environments stressful or overwhelming.
Another benefit of working independently is that you can manage your own workload. As a delivery driver, you can choose which orders to accept and which ones to decline, based on factors such as distance, payment, and customer rating. This can help you to manage your workload more effectively and can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed or overworked.
Furthermore, being a delivery driver can provide a sense of purpose and meaning. You’ll be delivering food or groceries to people who need it, which can be particularly rewarding during times of crisis or hardship. This can be a great way to make a difference in your community and to feel like you’re contributing to something bigger than yourself.
In addition to these benefits, being a delivery driver can also provide financial rewards. Most food delivery services offer base pay, tips, and bonuses, which can add up to a significant amount of income. This can be particularly appealing for people who are looking to earn extra income or who are trying to supplement their existing income.
Overall, being a delivery driver for a food delivery service can be a great job for people who enjoy working independently. It provides a level of autonomy and freedom that can be difficult to find in other jobs. It can also be a peaceful and meditative experience, providing a sense of relaxation and adventure. Furthermore, being a delivery driver can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, while also offering financial rewards.
Number 7 – No Need for Experience
One of the great things about working as a delivery driver for a food delivery service is that you don’t need any prior experience. All you need is a reliable vehicle, a smartphone, and a valid driver’s license.
Unlike many other jobs, where prior experience or a certain level of education is required, delivery driving is a job that almost anyone can do. Whether you’re a college student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone looking for a side hustle, delivery driving can be a great way to earn extra income without having to jump through a lot of hoops.
Moreover, many food delivery services have streamlined their application processes to make it as easy as possible for new drivers to get started. Typically, all you need to do is fill out an online application, provide some basic information about yourself and your vehicle, and undergo a background check or driving record check.
Once you’ve been approved, you’ll usually be invited to attend an orientation or training session, where you’ll learn how to use the delivery app and receive tips on how to provide great customer service. These sessions are usually brief and straightforward, and don’t require any prior experience or specialized knowledge.
Furthermore, being a delivery driver can be a great way to gain experience and build skills that can be useful in other areas of your life. For example, you’ll develop strong time management and organizational skills as you learn to manage your own schedule and prioritize orders. You’ll also develop communication and customer service skills as you interact with customers, restaurant staff, and your employer.
In addition, delivery driving can provide a sense of independence and control over your work life. As a delivery driver, you can choose when and where you want to work, and can manage your own schedule and workload. This can be particularly appealing for people who value autonomy and flexibility in their work.
Finally, being a delivery driver can provide financial rewards. Most food delivery services offer base pay, tips, and bonuses, which can add up to a significant amount of income. This can be particularly appealing for people who are looking to earn extra income or who are trying to supplement their existing income.
Overall, the fact that you don’t need any prior experience to become a delivery driver for a food delivery service is one of the key benefits of this type of job. It makes it accessible to almost anyone, regardless of their background or education level. Moreover, delivery driving can be a great way to gain experience and build skills that can be useful in other areas of your life, while also offering financial rewards and a sense of independence and control over your work life.
Number 8 – Low Overhead Costs
One of the biggest advantages of being a delivery driver for a food delivery service is that you don’t have to worry about many of the overhead costs that come with running a traditional business. This is because you are essentially working as an independent contractor, using your own vehicle to provide a service to customers.
Unlike traditional businesses, which often require significant investments in rent, utilities, and office supplies, delivery driving is a job that can be done with minimal overhead costs. All you need is a reliable vehicle, which you likely already own.
This can be particularly appealing for people who are looking for a low-risk, low-cost way to start their own business. By working as a delivery driver, you can essentially be your own boss, without having to make a significant financial investment or take on a lot of debt.
Moreover, because you’re not responsible for many of the overhead costs associated with running a traditional business, you can focus more of your time and energy on the core aspects of your work, such as providing great customer service and managing your deliveries effectively.
Another benefit of not having to worry about overhead costs is that it can make it easier to manage your finances. Because you know exactly how much money you’ll be earning per delivery, you can easily calculate your income and expenses. This can make it easier to budget and plan for the future.
Furthermore, because you’re using your own vehicle for work, you can write off certain expenses on your taxes. This can include things like gas, maintenance, and other costs associated with using your vehicle for work. By taking advantage of these tax write-offs, you can reduce your tax burden and increase your overall income.
In addition, because you’re not tied to a physical location like a traditional business, you have more flexibility in terms of where you work. You can choose to work in areas that are close to your home, or that you’re familiar with. This can help you to optimize your routes and minimize your driving time, which can in turn help you to earn more money.
Overall, not having to worry about overhead costs is one of the key benefits of being a delivery driver for a food delivery service. It allows you to focus more of your time and energy on the core aspects of your work, without having to make a significant financial investment or take on a lot of debt. By using your own vehicle, you can write off certain expenses on your taxes and increase your overall income. This can be particularly appealing for people who are looking for a low-cost, low-risk way to start their own business, or who simply want to earn extra income without a lot of financial stress.
Number 9 – Variety of Work
One of the great things about being a delivery driver is that you’ll have the opportunity to deliver a wide variety of goods. Depending on the food delivery service you work for, you may be delivering restaurant meals, groceries, alcohol, or even packages.
This variety can provide a fun and interesting work experience, as you’ll have the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of customers and deliver a wide variety of products. This can be particularly appealing for people who enjoy variety in their work and don’t like to do the same thing every day.
Moreover, delivering a variety of goods can help to keep your workday interesting and engaging. Rather than delivering the same type of product over and over again, you’ll have the opportunity to switch things up and challenge yourself in new ways.
In addition, delivering a variety of goods can provide opportunities for learning and growth. For example, if you’re delivering groceries, you may need to learn how to keep perishable items at the right temperature, or how to handle fragile items. If you’re delivering packages, you may need to learn how to navigate different neighborhoods and apartment buildings.
Furthermore, delivering a variety of goods can provide opportunities for social interaction. Depending on the type of goods you’re delivering, you may have the opportunity to interact with customers in a variety of settings, such as their homes, workplaces, or even public spaces. This can be a great way to meet new people and build relationships with customers.
Another benefit of delivering a variety of goods is that it can provide opportunities for creativity and problem-solving. For example, if you’re delivering food, you may need to think creatively to find the best route to a customer’s location, or to solve unexpected problems, such as traffic or road closures.
In addition, delivering a variety of goods can provide a sense of purpose and meaning. As a delivery driver, you’ll be providing an important service to customers, whether it’s delivering a hot meal to a busy family, or groceries to an elderly person who can’t leave their home. This can be a great way to feel like you’re making a difference in your community.
Overall, delivering a variety of goods can provide a fun, interesting, and engaging work experience. It can help to keep your workday fresh and exciting, provide opportunities for learning and growth, and offer social interaction and opportunities for creativity and problem-solving. Furthermore, delivering a variety of goods can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, as you’ll be providing a valuable service to customers.
Number 10 – Community Engagement
One of the great things about being a delivery driver is that it provides ample opportunities for social interaction. You’ll be interacting with a wide range of people every day, including customers, restaurant staff, and other drivers. This can provide a sense of community and connection, which can be rewarding and fulfilling.
First and foremost, you’ll be interacting with customers on a regular basis. This can be a great opportunity to meet new people and build relationships with customers. As a delivery driver, you’ll be providing an important service to customers, which can create a sense of gratitude and appreciation. You may find that customers are more likely to strike up a conversation with you or to offer a friendly smile or wave.
Furthermore, interacting with customers can provide opportunities for personal growth and development. For example, you may need to develop strong communication and problem-solving skills in order to handle difficult customers or unexpected situations. This can help you to develop a sense of confidence and self-assurance.
In addition, you’ll be interacting with restaurant staff on a regular basis. This can be a great opportunity to network and build relationships with people in the food service industry. You may find that restaurant staff are more likely to remember you and provide you with excellent service if you treat them with respect and professionalism.
Moreover, interacting with other delivery drivers can provide a sense of camaraderie and connection. Many food delivery services have driver communities or chat groups, where drivers can connect with one another and share tips and advice. This can be a great way to meet new people and to learn from others who have more experience.
Another benefit of interacting with a wide range of people as a delivery driver is that it can provide a sense of purpose and meaning. As a delivery driver, you’ll be providing an important service to customers and helping to support local businesses. This can be a great way to feel like you’re making a positive impact on your community and contributing to something larger than yourself.
Finally, interacting with a wide range of people can provide a sense of connection and belonging. Many people feel isolated or disconnected from their communities, particularly in today’s digital age. As a delivery driver, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with people face-to-face and to build real connections with customers, restaurant staff, and other drivers. This can be a great way to feel like you’re part of something larger than yourself and to find a sense of belonging.
Overall, interacting with a wide range of people as a delivery driver can be rewarding and fulfilling. It provides opportunities for personal growth and development, networking, and community building. Furthermore, it can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, while also offering a sense of connection and belonging.
Conclusion
Delivery driving isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great way to make to a living and also very rewarding. Like I mentioned in the beginning, I did it full time and then part time to supplement my income while building my own graphics business. It gave me the freedom to work when I wanted or more specifically, when my new business was going slow. When things got busy, I simply cut down on deliveries.
Pretty much all of the benefits above helped me directly or indirectly in building my graphics business. It might be different for you, but I would say that if at least 6 out of the 10 above benefits resonate with you, then I recommend giving delivery driving a try.
You have a bunch of options when choosing what company you drive for and it doesn’t even have to be exclusively food delivery for that matter. In my experience and according to several sites including US News, Millennial Money Man, Ride Share Guy, and Gigworker here are your top 6 options:
There are additional options that you may consider. Regional ones like Favor in Texas, Delivery.com in New York or Eaze in California.
Lastly, I’d like to give honorable mentions to Amazon Flex and USPS Rural Carrier. Though I didn’t drive for either personally, we’ve had a bunch of folks get our car signage while driving for them and generally seemed to like driving for them when we asked.
Hope you find this article useful and stay safe out there!
PS. ZERO of the links provided are affiliate links and we DO NOT make any money off of them. Myself, nor my company are in any way affiliated with any of these companies.
