Having a side hustle is becoming more and more popular these days. One favored side gig people are gravitating toward is a food delivery driver for an online delivery app. These platforms make it easy for the consumer to order from multiple restaurants and different cuisines with the convenience of delivery to their doorstep.
Most of us have ordered a late-night snack at least once before, but have you considered driving for some extra cash? Whether it’s driving for Uber Eats or another company, let’s talk about the pros, cons, and insurance you’ll want to carry while delivering.
4 Pros of Being a Delivery Driver
From earning extra cash to taking control of your schedule. Let’s first take a look at the pros of driving for a delivery app.
#1 – Extra money is always a plus
While some drivers are trying to get ahead by paying off debts, others become delivery drivers for the extra cash. In fact, you can see it as a paycheck you won’t feel guilty spending as play money. No matter the reason, it’s great to have some extra money every month.
#2 – The job can be flexible
You truly have access to as little or as much work as you’d like on different days or times during the week. This position can work around whatever life situation you currently find yourself in; whether you are in school, a full-time parent, or not employed.
#3 – You control how much you make
With more deliveries comes an increase in your paycheck, but that’s not all it boils down to. Being efficient while also being safe is key. There’s a fine line when making these deliveries and how much you can accomplish during your chosen shift.
#4 – You’ll meet new people
Whether it’s the person you are delivering to, workers at the restaurant, or a fellow driver; networking is huge, and sometimes we can all use some human interaction, especially after the last 18 months.
5 Cons of Being a Delivery Driver
Sure, you can make good money, but what about your safety or your car insurance rates? Now, we’re taking a look at some of the cons of being a delivery driver.
#5 – Safety Concerns
Being a driver on the road increases your chances of an accident while delivering to different locations. Also, you are likely going to locations you’ve never been to and meeting complete strangers when dropping off orders. This can be scary and deter some individuals from taking on delivery driving.
#6 – Wear and tear on your vehicle
Think tires, rotations, oil changes, and miles on your car. All these factors are to be considered. So you must decide: Is the pay worth the amount it costs to keep your vehicle running? Look into student car loans and other options to get a car that can handle the job.
#7 – Changes in rules and regulations
The rules and regulations of these online delivery services can and do change spontaneously without warning. So for you to continue as a driver, you must regularly review the rules and regulations or you might find yourself out of a job.
#8 – Your insurance rates will go up
Every driver should carry commercial rideshare and delivery insurance. Although most apps maintain insurance coverage while the driver is behind the wheel, it’s recommended to have extra coverage in case of an accident.
Will you be delivering someone’s next meal?
There are several ways you can make money driving your car, but many drivers like the flexibility of food delivery while also keeping their personal space. There are certainly some cons to this gig, but the pros are contenders in keeping this side hustle as an option.
Whether to make some extra cash, get yourself out of your home, meet new people, or pay off some debt, you’re hopefully able to come to the best conclusion that fits your situation.
Carla Hughes writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. Carla writes about a variety of auto-related issues, including the benefits and risks of driving for food delivery apps.