As an entrepreneurship consultant who advises delivery drivers exploring food delivery platforms, one of the most common questions I get asked is: "Should I drive for Uber Eats or DoorDash?"
My first response is always: "Why not both?"
However, I understand many drivers prefer to focus on a single platform as they build out their business. So let‘s dig deeper into the factors that impact driver pay, support and overall working experience on Uber Eats compared to DoorDash.
Delving into the Data: Where Driver Earnings Are Higher
Based on financial statements and earning reports across major metro areas, here is how average hourly earnings currently compare:
| City | Uber Eats | DoorDash |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | $31 | $25 |
| Los Angeles | $21 | $24 |
| Chicago | $18 | $17 |
| Houston | $19 | $20 |
As you can see, Uber Eats tends to pay higher rates per hour across most major markets. However, keep in mind these can vary based on factors like:
- Vehicle type: Earnings range on average from $18-22/hour for cars up to $35/hour for bicycle deliveries
- Peak scheduling: Dinner rushes from 5-9 PM tend to see 25-50% higher hourly pay
- Quest Incentives: I’ve seen clients earn an extra $100+ during weekends from Uber’s bonuses
So ultimately, pay will depend more on your hustle, working hours and locations than the app itself.
Now, let‘s break down exactly how driver pay is structured on each platform.
Pay Model Breakdown: Base Rates, Tips and Promotions
Uber Eats uses a dynamic pricing algorithm accounting for expected wait times, mileage, and demand fluctuations. As a result, base rates can change from order-to-order. In contrast, DoorDash sticks to fixed base rates depending on distance – usually around $2-3 per delivery.
Both platforms let drivers keep 100% of tips, a vital boost to overall earnings. The key tipping difference is Uber Eats allows pre-tipping at checkout OR post-delivery tipping, whereas DoorDash requires the tip amount during checkout, before the order is placed.
In terms of bonuses, Uber rolls out frequent “Quest” promotions, awarding drivers an extra $2 per delivery during high peak times for example. DoorDash offers similar “Peak Pay” bonuses but also lets high-performing Dashers earn points towards rewards with things like cash bonuses or reduced gas prices.
Making the Most of Earnings: Optimal Hours, Locations and Strategy
As an entrepreneurial driver, the key is combining optimal hours, locations and delivery strategies.
Based on my consulting experience, here’s what I recommend:
The busiest windows tend to be weekday dinner rushes from 5-9 PM and weekend lunch hours from 11 AM to 2 PM. Target popular spots like college campuses, office parks or tourist hot spots.
Use both apps’ earning maps to chase “hot zones” of high demand. And maximize earnings by running multiple apps to reduce waiting times between orders.
Lastly, maintain excellent ratings and response times to increase order volume and qualify for platform incentives and rewards programs. This optimizes opportunities on either platform.
Support Resources: How Uber Eats and DoorDash Help Drivers Succeed
Uber Eats heavily promotes 24/7 phone assistance and localized Greenlight Hubs to support drivers. DoorDash meanwhile focuses support efforts through email ticketing systems and in-app messaging.
In my experience consulting new delivery drivers, Uber Eats’ phone and in-person support is extremely helpful for troubleshooting issues and navigating promotions. DoorDash’s setup tends to have slower response rates in comparison.
Both platforms provide insurance protections – up to $1 million in liability coverage – for when you’re actively fulfilling deliveries. Make sure to understand exclusions and eligibility terms so you have full coverage.
Another area Uber Eats excels in? Driver community engagement efforts. They facilitate local networking events and betting practices meetups for gig workers. DoorDash is not as hands on in bringing dashers together in real life.
Assessing Platform Flexibility, Transparency and Control
DoorDash provides the most scheduling flexibility and earnings transparency. Drivers can set availability in advance or join the Dash Now feature for instant delivery opportunities.
The DoorDash driver app also shares helpful data like:
- Estimated demand and order volumes in local zones
- Projected pay and tip amounts per order
- Itemized weekly earnings statements
This level of detail makes it easier to strategize high-earning shifts. Uber Eats’ order assignment system is primarily demand-based, with less earnings data presented upfront.
Both apps provide some form of gamified rewards to incentivize drivers reach new milestones – such as tuition assistance programs or cash back rewards. Determine what matters most to help decide between Uber Pro membership perks vs Top Dasher status.
Evaluating Insurance, Maintenance Costs and Other Key Expenses
Make sure to account for all the hidden costs of food delivery driving as well when evaluating Uber Eats vs DoorDash – or better yet, discuss with a financial advisor. These include:
- Auto maintenance like oil changes & tire rotations
- Gas costs can add up quickly! Aim for >40 MPG efficiency.
- Phone plan charges – prepaid is often cheaper
- Daily supplies (insulated bags, car cleaning items)
The most overlooked expense? Taxes! As an independent contractor, you are responsible for paying self-employment taxes like Medicare/Social Security. Make sure to set aside ~30% of earnings to avoid headaches!
Which Platform is Best for Drivers? The Bottom Line
Based on my consulting experience supporting over 100 startup delivery drivers, here are my key recommendations:
For new drivers, sign up for BOTH Uber Eats and DoorDash to compare experiences firsthand. This lets you determine which app has:
- Highest order volumes and hourly pay potential
- Best promos and bonuses aligned to your goals
- Stronger support channels relevant to your needs
Then over 2-3 weeks, narrow focus towards the platform providing the most earnings and best overall fit.
For experienced drivers, multi-apping tends to deliver the most income by keeping order queues filled during downtime. Maximizing both apps unlocks earnings potential – so why limit yourself!
Whichever route you pursue, focus on providing quality service, chase peak demand pockets, and leverage promos/incentives. Then let the earnings speak for themselves!
Hope this detailed comparison helps provide insights deciding between Uber Eats vs DoorDash in 2024 and beyond. Feel free to reach out with any other questions!
