Due to such a high demand for convenience of use, food delivery industry has become a booming in the USA. Delivering food can be a lucrative full or part time hustle regardless of whether you’re looking at that as a full time or part time gig. So here is how you can start and make the most of it.
Choose the Right Platform
The fact that they operate across the USA makes them no different from DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Postmates, and Instacart. Find out which of these platforms are the most popular ones in your state or the one you are in. Every single platform has its own set of unique features, commission rate and incentives. For example:
- Peak pay bonuses are frequently offered by DoorDash during their busy hours.
- In some cities, you can deliver by car, bike or scooter with Uber Eats.
- Grocery delivery is what Instacart is focused on and likely bigger tips.
Meet the Requirements
To become a delivery driver, you typically need:
- Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance.
- A clean driving record.
- A smartphone to use the app.
- A few platforms may even ask for a background check or for proof of vehicle registration. Check city specific guidelines on bike or scooter delivery.
Plan Your Schedule Wisely
Lunch (11 AM to 2 PM) and dinner (5 PM to 9 PM, peak hours) will bring you the most earnings. On weekends and holidays, there is more demand than on weekdays, so you’ll have more orders as well as better tips. You should use times like this to your advantage.
Optimize Your Routes
Save the time and cost of fuel by accepting orders close to you. Try to get familiar with high competition neighborhoods and neighbourhoods with several restaurants so that you could have more order opportunities. There are many apps that will show you heat maps of high activity areas.
Focus on Customer Service
Willingness to keep communication nice and friendly; attention to special instructions; and just prompt delivery can also make a big difference in tips. Small efforts, as simple as ensuring that orders are secured and delivered with due care, can make a lot of difference to your customer satisfaction.
Track Expenses and Earnings
Watch your gas, vehicle maintenance and insurance. Mileage costs could be tax deductible; use apps or tools to track mileage and use these apps as a small business to track expenses and mileage. In order to understand if delivery driving will meet your income expectations, you can set financial goals.
There are also Bonuses and Promotions
There are many platforms that boost your earnings by giving a sign up bonus to new users, referral incentive and promotional challenges to name a few. Make sure you’re up to date with these possibilities and use them when you can.
If done right, offering food delivery in the USA can be a great source of income either as a side hustle or a major job. Food delivery can be a great income stream if you pick a right platform, manage your time right and prioritize providing high quality service.