Table of Contents
Introduction
DoorDash is a popular food delivery service that allows drivers, known as “Dashers”, to earn money by picking up and delivering food orders placed through the DoorDash app or website. With DoorDash, drivers get the flexibility to choose their own hours and work as much or as little as they want. But how exactly does the payment system work and how can Dashers maximize their earnings potential? This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know.
How Does DoorDash Pay Work?
DoorDash pays drivers in a few different ways:
Per Delivery Pay
For each delivery, DoorDash provides a base pay between $2-10 depending on factors like distance, duration, and desirability. Dashers keep 100% of customer tips on top of base pay.
Promotions
DoorDash offers peak pay promotions during busy times, challenges for completing a certain number of orders, and referral bonuses. These can help Dashers earn extra money.
DasherDirect
An optional prepaid Visa debit card that allows Dashers to access earnings daily with no fees.
So a Dasher’s total earnings per delivery = Base Pay + Tips + Promotions. The average Dasher earns around $22 per hour including tips according to DoorDash.
10 Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Here are 10 proven tips from top Dashers for making more money delivering with DoorDash:
1. Dash During Peak Times
Dash when restaurants are busiest like lunch and dinner rushes as well as weekends. Peak pay is usually in effect too.
2. Schedule Time Slots
Schedule dashes in advance to lock in availability in busy zones rather than driving around hoping to get orders.
3. Accept Orders Strategically
Accept orders over $1 per mile from pickup to dropoff and with tips of at least $4-5. Avoid low offers.
4. Get Fast Pay
Transfer earnings to debit card daily with Fast Pay rather than waiting for weekly payouts. The $1.99 fee may be worth the instant access.
5. Track Mileage
Use an app like Gridwise to automatically track miles for tax deductions, which saves a lot of money.
6. Have Insulated Bags
Get catering bags to qualify for larger, more lucrative orders. DoorDash sells them at a discount for new Dashers.
7. Monitor Ratings
Check customer ratings often and aim for above a 4.7 average to get priority access to better orders.
8. Use Multiple Apps
Run multiple apps like UberEats and GrubHub simultaneously to reduce downtime between orders.
9. Drive Efficiently
Plan optimal routes to make deliveries quickly. Apps like Road Warrior help. Saving time and gas equals more earnings.
10. Provide Great Service
Go above and beyond with communication, accuracy, and care. Excellent service leads to better tips.
Getting Started with DoorDash
Signing up to deliver with DoorDash is easy and free. Simply download the DoorDash driver app and complete the online application. You’ll need:
- Valid driver’s license
- Car insurance
- Vehicle inspection (in some areas)
- Activation kit
Once approved, you can start accepting orders in your area!
Delivering with DoorDash offers flexible work that fits around your schedule. While earnings vary based on factors like location and hours worked, the average Dasher makes over $22 per hour including 100% of tips. Following these tips can help you maximize your income potential driving for DoorDash.