Nowadays, the delivery service market is full of options and competitors. This is a good thing for both customers and couriers alike.
However, determining which app is the best can be challenging and confusing. Is Uber Eats actually worth it?
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Should You Order From Uber Eats?
If you’re deciding which delivery platform to order from, Uber Eats is a decent choice. Uber Eats has decent coverage, including over 500 cities and 24 countries. The fees associated are competitively priced for the most part. Uber Eats is a good delivery platform to use if you already have the Uber app.
What Customers Should Know
There are a few things you should keep in mind If you are considering using Uber Eats as your delivery service of choice. Uber Eats has higher service fees compared to other services and delivery platforms.
Higher Service Fees
One of the major downsides to Uber Eats is the platform’s high service fee. Uber Eats charges their customers a 15% service fee upon checkout. DoorDash has an average service fee of 10-12%. Other platforms like Grubhub use a standard service fee of $3.99.
You’re Paying Extra For Delivery
Regardless of the app, you’ll be paying a premium for delivery. The menu prices on delivery platforms are raised to offset the cost of commission. On average, customers can expect to pay anywhere from 20-25% more per item. If this is an issue, you may want to avoid ordering delivery altogether.
What Drivers Should Know
If you’re deciding which delivery platform to work for, Uber Eats is one of your best options. Uber Eats has a wide range of coverage, including over 500 cities and 24 countries. Compared to other delivery services, Uber Eats is a competitive choice in the industry.
However, there are a few things you should be aware of when deciding to drive for the Uber Eats platform.
The Application Process Is Comparable to Other Apps
The Uber Eats application and signup process are comparable to other delivery apps. New drivers typically complete the process in as little as 30 minutes. Individuals who already drive for Uber have an even easier time applying. However, Uber Eats does require their drivers to meet certain criteria before they’re approved.
Notable Restrictions
If you sign up for Uber Eats, you’ll come across a few notable restrictions. Here’s a full list of disqualifying factors that other apps may or may not have:
- You must be 19 years or older to deliver using a car or truck
- Your vehicle must be made after 1998 and have 2 or 4 doors.
- Newcomers must maintain their local road safety laws.
Besides that, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, a valid insurance policy, and at least one year of driving experience if you’re located in the U.S.
Bike Requirements
You’ll run into a different set of restrictions If you plan to use a bicycle, scooter, or moped to deliver for Uber Eats. Here’s what you can expect:
- Any make or model of scooter is eligible as long as it has two wheels.
- No scooters with a motor above 50cc or that travel faster than 30 mph.
- You must be 18 years or older and have a government-issued ID.
Flexible Hours
Uber Eats has flexible hours for their delivery drivers. Couriers can accept orders any time of the day, as long as restaurants are open and customers are available.
However, if you appreciate more structure, you may want to opt for DoorDash. DoorDAsh allows their drivers to schedule specific hours at different dates and times. This makes DoorDash comparable to a standard job.
Decent Customer Support
Regardless of the app, most delivery drivers have encountered issues regarding customer support. This seems to be a theme for most delivery services. One benefit to Uber Eats is that they have brick and mortar offices in select locations. Additionally, there are five total ways you can contact Uber Driver support.
You Can’t See Your Tips Until You Arrive
Not being able to see your tips until you drop off an order is one of the biggest disadvantages to Uber Eats. This means you may accept an order that takes a considerable amount of time and only receive the base fare. Other apps like DoorDash, allow you to see how much you’re earning before you accept the order.
Is Uber Eats Good For Customers and Couriers?
Using Uber Eats is a decent choice if you’re a customer. The prices are competitively priced, the platform is secure, and they cover a wide range of locations. However, the service fee is higher than their competitors.
If you’re a courier, Uber Eats is one of your best choices to deliver for. The app is similar to other options, such as DoorDash and Postmates. The downsides include extra wear and tear to your vehicle and not knowing if you’ll receive a tip.