13 Different Ways You Can Earn from Delivering Things

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how to make money delivering

Curious about ways to earn money through deliveries? Delivery driving has grown in popularity as a means to supplement income. Thanks to the proliferation of delivery apps and online shopping, there are abundant opportunities to deliver items for profit.

Is delivering things a good side hustle?

Delivering things is a fantastic side hustle for many reasons.

  • Flexible hours: You don’t need to work a fixed schedule. You can work whenever you want or when you’re free. It’s perfect for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking to make extra money delivering. This flexibility lets you balance your primary commitments and delivery work effectively.
  • Explore new areas: Driving around different neighborhoods provides a sense of adventure and discovery. You’ll have the chance to see new places and meet a variety of people. This aspect keeps the job interesting and less monotonous.
  • Variety of delivery options: You have the option to deliver food, groceries, packages, or even offer personal shopping services. This diversity keeps the work engaging and avoids monotony, enabling you to select the type of delivery that aligns best with your preferences.
  • Potential for tips: On top of your base pay, there is potential to earn tips. Providing quick and friendly service can lead to generous tips from customers, significantly boosting your overall earnings.

What are the risks of this opportunity?

While there are many benefits, there are also some risks to consider when looking at ways to make money delivering.

  • Traffic accidents: Increased time on the road raises the risk of traffic accidents. Driving safely and staying alert at all times are crucial to minimizing this risk.
  • Vehicle wear and tear: Constant driving leads to higher maintenance costs. Fuel, oil changes, and tire replacements are some of the expenses you will need to manage. These additional costs can cut into your earnings, so plan accordingly.
  • Safety concerns: Delivering in unfamiliar or potentially unsafe locations can present personal safety challenges. It’s crucial to remain vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take precautions like avoiding late-night deliveries in high-risk areas to prioritize your safety.
  • Income fluctuations: Your earnings can fluctuate based on demand, location, and the delivery platform you use. Peak hours or high-demand areas can boost your earnings, but they might also bring more stress and competition. It’s important to have realistic expectations about potential income variations.

What are the requirements of this opportunity?

Before you start delivering stuff for money, certain requirements must be met.

  • Valid driver’s license: A current and valid driver’s license is essential. This is a basic requirement for all delivery platforms to ensure you are legally allowed to drive.
  • Reliable vehicle: Your vehicle should be dependable and well-maintained. Alternatively, you can utilize a motorcycle or bicycle. This flexibility means you can participate in this opportunity even without owning a car.
  • Insurance: Insurance is crucial for protecting your vehicle and adhering to the policies of most delivery platforms.
  • Background checks: Certain delivery platforms may conduct background checks to ensure safety and reliability. These checks are usually simple yet essential for creating a secure delivery environment.
  • Smartphone: A smartphone is essential for this opportunity. Most delivery apps operate through mobile applications, so a reliable phone with a good data plan is necessary for receiving orders and navigating routes effectively.
  • Good navigation skills: Familiarity with GPS technology and the ability to follow directions accurately are important. Good navigation skills help you deliver efficiently and avoid delays.
  • Customer service skills: Politeness, clear communication, and prompt delivery can lead to better reviews and higher tips. Good customer service skills enhance your delivery experience and can positively impact your earnings.
  • Platform-specific requirements: Check each delivery platform’s specific requirements, such as age restrictions or vehicle types.

What are the ways you can make money delivering?

Here are 13 different ways to make money doing deliveries:

1. Food Delivery Apps

Services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub enable you to transport food from restaurants to customers, earning between $10 to $25 per hour, tips included. This option is popular for its flexibility and high demand, though busy periods can be intense.

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2. Grocery Delivery

Platforms such as Instacart and Shipt allow you to purchase and deliver groceries, earning approximately $15 to $25 per hour. This role involves more effort as you select items, but it often leads to higher tips because of the personalized service provided.

3. Package Delivery

Amazon Flex enables you to deliver packages for Amazon. Earnings range from $18 to $25 per hour. This option provides steady work but may involve heavy lifting and strict schedules, ensuring timely deliveries.

4. Alcohol Delivery

Services like Drizly and Saucey pay you to deliver alcohol. Earnings vary but can be around $10 to $20 per hour plus tips. Alcohol delivery can be profitable, especially during weekends and holidays, though age verification is crucial.

5. Medical Supply Delivery

Delivering medical supplies for companies like HME Providers can be a stable income source. Pay can range from $15 to $30 per hour. This job requires reliability and may involve handling sensitive items, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and care.

6. Courier Services

Traditional courier services like FedEx and UPS offer part-time delivery jobs. Pay ranges from $15 to $25 per hour. These positions often provide benefits but require strict adherence to schedules, ensuring prompt deliveries.

7. Personal Shopping

Apps like TaskRabbit allow you to shop and deliver items for clients. Pay can range from $15 to $45 per hour, depending on the task. This job offers variety and high earning potential but can be unpredictable due to varying client needs.

8. Laundry Services

Rinse and similar companies compensate you for collecting, laundering, and delivering clothes. Typically, you can earn between $15 and $25 per hour. This work is less strenuous physically but demands meticulous attention to detail for accurate deliveries.

9. Prescription Delivery

Delivering prescriptions for pharmacies like CVS can earn you around $12 to $18 per hour. This role requires reliability and adherence to privacy laws, ensuring safe and timely delivery of medications.

10. Pet Food Delivery

Apps like Postmates and DoorDash sometimes offer pet food delivery. Earnings vary but can be around $10 to $20 per hour. This niche market can be lucrative, especially in pet-friendly communities where convenience is valued.

11. Flower Delivery

Delivering flowers for companies like 1-800-Flowers can earn you around $10 to $20 per hour. This job is more seasonal but can be enjoyable and rewarding, especially during holidays and special occasions.

12. Freight Delivery

Platforms like Roadie pay you to deliver large items or freight. Earnings depend on the distance and size of the item but can range from $20 to $60 per delivery. This option is best for those with larger vehicles capable of transporting bulky items efficiently.

13. Elderly Assistance

Delivering groceries, prescriptions, or other necessities to the elderly through services like Papa can earn you $15 to $20 per hour. This role requires compassion and reliability, providing essential support to elderly individuals who may find it challenging to shop for themselves.

Deliver things is a good opportunity

Delivering things is a fantastic way to earn money. There are plenty of delivery driving apps available, offering various options that can match your lifestyle and interests. Whether you prefer delivering food, groceries, packages, or other items, it’s important to pick the one that fits well with your schedule and abilities. When you find the right fit and approach it wisely, delivering stuff for money can turn into a satisfying and lucrative side gig.