DoorDash Review: Pros, Cons, and How to Get Started with Delivery (2024)

Written By:Paul

DoorDash Review: Pros, Cons, and How to Get Started with Delivery (2)

Last Updated onApril 18, 2023

When you're hungry and can't (or don't want to) leave the house, DoorDash makes it easy to get food delivered. The company also makes it easy to order food for pickup from your favorite local restaurants. The convenience of DoorDash has led to its expansion to cities all over the United States.

Much like other food delivery apps such as Postmates, Grub Hub, and UberEats, DoorDash partners with businesses that don't have their own delivery service.

The company acts as an intermediary between delivery drivers, customers, and restaurants.

If you haven't used DoorDash before, you may wonder how they compare to their competitors.

There are a few perks to using the service that many people don't realize, so review this Door Dash review to learn more.

With this food delivery service, you have a convenient way to satisfy a food craving quickly and easily.

DoorDash Review: Pros, Cons, and How to Get Started with Delivery (3)

Doordash At A Glance

  • Best Match For: People looking to enjoy delicious meals from their favorite restaurants with quick door-to-door delivery.
  • Commitment Level: No commitments - Order at any time; DashPass (reduced service fees and free delivery for all orders over $12)
  • Availability: Over 300,000 restaurants across the US, Canada, and Australia (available in all major cities)
  • Value: Prices depend on select restaurants; Service fee up to 11%; Small order fee for orders under $10; Delivery fee for certain restaurants and locations
  • Type: Super-fast food delivery from your favorite restaurants

Quick Navigation

Doordash At A Glance

How Doordash Works

DashPass

What You Can Expect

Your Driver

Quality of the Food

Delivery

FAQS

DoorDash Costs

Food for Thought

How Doordash Works

DoorDash began in San Francisco. Now, you can access the service in most major US cities. In addition to regular delivery, there are three options for placing an order via the app or the website:

  • 1. Pickup. Some restaurants may not be delivery partners, but they allow you to place pickup orders. Instead of looking up a restaurant menu and then calling with your order, you can use DoorDash to easily review the menu, place an order, and see exactly when it's ready.
  • 2. Scheduled Delivery. If you aren't ready for your food now, you can select a delivery time and date. The restaurant will prepare your order and you can expect it around that time.
  • 3. Group Order. Ordering for a large group can be a challenge. Fortunately, DoorDash lets you share an order link with others so that you can all add to the cart at the same time.

Using the app is not complicated. To make an account, you enter your name, email, and phone number. Then, you enter your location so that DoorDash can show you places in your area.

To find somewhere to eat, review the list on the DoorDash home page or sort your choices by category. For example, you could type in a specific food place, an item, or a genre of food. Once you select a restaurant, you'll be able to look through the menu and customize your order.

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All of your items will go into your cart for checkout. Review everything and enter payment information (you can use Apple pay, Google pay, a debit card or credit card), and you're done! Now, you can sit back and wait for your food to arrive at your door.

Some restaurants partner with DoorDash to automatically get orders fulfilled using Dashers. So, you may order dinner online from a company and find that you get a tracking link to follow your Dasher. With this method, you do not have to create an account to get your meal delievered.

DashPass

DoorDash has a membership program for frequent users. For a monthly fee, you can get free delivery on orders over $15. Since fees can sometimes add up, this is handy for someone who tends to have high delivery fees in their area or who orders food often.

To use your DashPass, the restaurant must have a checkmark by their business in the app.

What You Can Expect

After you place an order, you can use the map to track the Dasher (the delivery driver) who is picking up your food.

You'll see a review of things about your driver such as their reviews and car or vehicle details.

You can also send them messages about accessing your work building, neighborhood, or apartment complex if need be. Though it isn't mandatory, the app allows customer tips as well.

If your DoorDash driver has any issues or a hold up, they can call or text you with updates. If for some reason you are dissatisfied with something or have a problem, you can email or call DoorDash customer support.

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After you get your order, you can rate or review the driver and the restaurant on a scale of one to five stars. Providing comments about your experience can help the service improve and let other consumers know what to expect.

Your Driver

Once your order is assigned to a Dasher, you can have a conversation with them about any issue. Many Dashers will keep you updated on the status of your order if the preparation is slow. Regardless, it's important to note that the wait times in the app are just review estimates.

Quality of the Food

Your driver and DoorDash have no control over the food quality. However, many partners serve plenty of great food, and you can review the ratings for various eateries before you place an order. You can even filter your options so that the site only shows you places with a good rating.

If you are ordering something that must be hot or cold (such as sushi or pho), keep in mind how far the restaurant is and review how much time it may take to get the food to you.

When you don't know what you want to eat, it helps to narrow your selection down by genre (e.g. "pizza"). Or, you can ask friends for recommendations. Since the variety is so great, it never hurts to try something new just for fun.

Delivery

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According to the company website, DoorDash dashers are available in more than 850 cities in North America. The delivery services in your area will vary depending on the time you order food, the restaurant, and the drivers available.

Some DoorDash reviews have reported wait times of over an hour during high traffic moments, while there are times where your order may come in less than 30 minutes. DoorDash is also available in Australia and Canada.

If you need to review or change your address, you can do so by clicking the current address on the site or app. Sometimes you may want to include a message or notes for your driver such as "enter at the second gate" or "ring the doorbell." You can add these directions below the address line.

You can schedule a group order up to four days in advance. Pick the restaurant you want, and select a date and time at the checkout page. Be sure to confirm that the restaurant is open at that time. DoorDash is also a popular no-contact meal delivery service, so you don't have to meet your driver in person if you are unable.

FAQS

Is delivering for DoorDash worth it?

Many people choose to make deliveries for DoorDash as a side job. If you want to be a Dasher, all you have to do is make a profile and complete an employee background check. Then, you can have an Activation Kit mailed to you, which contains a hot/cold bag and a red card.

After activating your red card and setting up your bank information, you are ready to begin driving. When someone places an order, you will get an alert on your phone and a GPS will tell you where to go. It's a very simple gig that almost anyone with a car can get into.

Do DoorDash drivers get paid well?

A DoorDash driver gets a base pay per order in addition to tip money. They are independent contractors, so the amount they earn depends on the hours they drive and their region.

As a customer, it is important to always tip your driver just as you would for other similar services. You can use the app tipping system or cash. You can find a review of what it's like to be a delivery person on the company website.

What's the DoorDash referral program?

You and your friends can get discounts on meals by using the DoorDash referral program. When you join the app, you get a personal referral code that a family member or friend can use when they sign up. Your referral gives the other person $5 off on their first three orders while you get $10 in credit.

You are limited to using your referral code for 25 new users.

What fees should I pay on DoorDash?

According to the company customer service reps, the answer to this question depends on the restaurant. There are several fees that may appear on the checkout page, which include the delivery fee, a service fee, and gratuity.

The fee for delivery depends on your distance from the restaurant and the time of your order. For a pick up order, you will not have to pay this fee. The service fee goes to DoorDash for the continued maintenance of the platform.

If you order from a non-partner, you may also encounter fees. When this happens, the Dasher must go inside the restaurant and use their Dasher credit card to place your order.

Lastly, the company has a minimum amount for orders. If you order anything less than the minimum, you will have to pay a small order fee.

How to file a complaint?

If you have trouble with the app or there was a mistake with your order, you can get assistance via the customer service team. Contact customer service via live chat, email, or phone.

If you never use the service and want to find commonly asked questions, the company website has a helpful FAQ page. The page has a section for customers, drivers, and merchants. So, if you have an account or credit card situation, check the FAQ page first.

A review for the Dasher or restaurant is another way to leave feedback. A positive review can go a long way for an individual or business.

Can you get scammed on DoorDash?

DoorDash is not a scam. There was a DoorDash data breach in 2019 where hackers stole information related to 4.9 million customers, delivery workers, and merchants.

Do DoorDash drivers make money?

Yes, DoorDash drivers make money for every order, including tips and any promotional bonuses.

How legit is DoorDash?

DoorDash is a legitimate company with an Indeed rating of 3.2 and a slightly higher GlassDoor rating of 3.9.

Can you make 200 a day with DoorDash?

Yes, it is possible to make $200 a day with DoorDash if you are savvy with your time and energy.

Can you make a living off DoorDash?

Some people make a living using DoorDash, but most people do it to earn a little extra cash.

Is DoorDash safe at night?

Whether DoorDash is safe at night depends on where you are and your comfort level. If you feel unsafe making a delivery at night, do not make it.

Does DoorDash pay you for gas?

No, DoorDash does not pay you for gas.

Should I give DoorDash my SSN?

Yes. To drive for DoorDash, you must provide your social security number, name, date of birth, vehicle information, and more.

How much do restaurants make on DoorDash?

DoorDash doesn’t say their commission rates openly, but reportedly they can vary between 10-25%.

Do DoorDash drivers get a free door?

No, DoorDash drivers do not get any perks from DoorDash.

Did DoorDash fix tipping?

Yes, you can tip after delivery and adjust your Doordash tip after your order had been delivered.

Does Walmart do DoorDash?

Yes, DoorDash delivers from Walmart in most US states. Unlike Instacart, DoorDash does not charge more than the store price for items.

How do I get my money back from DoorDash?

To get your money back on DoorDash, all you need to do is select the order and fill out a refund request through the DoorDash app. After you report any issues with your order, the company may let you choose between an account credit for a future order or a refund to your bank account.

Can someone ride with me while driving for DoorDash?

Yes, someone can ride with you while you deliver for DoorDash. There are no restrictions on how many people can be in the vehicle.

What will disqualify you from DoorDash?

You can not drive for DoorDash if you’ve done major violations such as certain violent crimes, failing to report an accident, driving with a suspended license, or a DUI.

Is DoorDash better than a regular job?

For many people, driving for DoorDash feels better than a regular job. Drivers get to set their own hours and work when they want.

Is DoorDash better than Skip Dishes?

For a single person. Skip the Dishes can be better than DoorDash because Skip doesn’t have small order fees.

Does DoorDash use real names?

Yes, both DoorDash drivers and customers use their real first names and last initials.

Is it easy to get hired by DoorDash?

Yes, it’s easy to get hired by DoorDash. You only have to meet certain requirements, have a vehicle, and pass a background check.

Do restaurants lose money on DoorDash?

DoorDash takes a big cut from restaurants like many other food delivery apps. DoorDash's commissions, which can reach 30% of an order, are too high for many restaurants to handle.

Is there a monthly fee for DoorDash?

No, you do not have to pay monthly to use DoorDash. However, you can sign up for Dashpass for $9.99 per month to get exclusive perks.

Can you make 2000 a week with DoorDash?

It’s possible to make $2000 a week with Doordash, but it’s extremely unlikely.

Is it bad to decline orders on DoorDash?

No, it is not bad to decline orders on DoorDash. DoorDash keeps track of your order acceptance rate, but they do not penalize you for it.

Does DoorDash take taxes out of your check?

No, DoorDash drivers are independent contractors, meaning that the company does not withhold taxes from your pay.

Does DoorDash have a dress code?

No, DoorDash does not have a dress code.

How much do you make on DoorDash after gas?

The average DoorDash job takes 30 minutes to complete and requires 6.8 miles of driving. After independent contractor taxes and mileage expenses, DoorDash pays $1.45 per hour on average.

Will DoorDash leave food on the porch?

Yes, you can leave a note on your DoorDash order asking the driver to leave the food on the porch.

How much money does the average person make on DoorDash?

DoorDash drivers earn a gross average of $15.76 per hour from the time they accept the job to the time it’s complete.

How much does DoorDash pay per mile?

DoorDash pays per order instead of per mile.

What happens when you reach 100 deliveries on DoorDash?

DoorDash drivers who reach 100 deliveries get a $5 bonus, sometimes more.

Can DoorDash customers see your location?

Yes, DoorDash customers can see the location of their driver from the time you pick up the order to the time you deliver it.

Can DoorDash customers see your rating?

After you deliver a DoorDash order, customers can leave an optional rating and review. DoorDash drivers cannot see individual customer ratings and reviews.

Does DoorDash give out your number?

No, DoorDash values its customers' privacy and uses a service that helps conceal both your and your driver's phone numbers.

Do they drug test for DoorDash?

No, you do not need a drug test to drive for DoorDash.

How long does it take for DoorDash to hire you?

Once you complete a DoorDash driver application, it can take about 3-10 days to get hired.

Is DoorDash a good part time job?

Yes, DoorDash is a good part time job that puts a little money in your pocket. Dashing full time, however, is challenging.

Why are so many restaurants leaving DoorDash?

Some restaurants are leaving DoorDash because of the high service fees and the lack of restaurant support that DoorDash provides.

Why is DoorDash service fee so high?

According to a DoorDash spokesperson, "Operating our platform, paying and insuring Dashers, and ensuring high-quality service can be expensive, which is why in some markets, where local governments have passed pricing regulations, we have begun charging customers a small additional fee."

Is there a minimum order for DoorDash?

No, there is no minimum order for DoorDash. However, small orders under $10 may be charged an additional fee.

DoorDash Costs

The pricing depends on the select restaurants and meals. However, you can expect to pay a service fee of up to 11%, a small order fee for orders under $10, and/or a delivery fee for certain locations.

Food for Thought

In review, even though there are now many companies who dabble in delivering meals, DoorDash is one with a large market share.

They often reach areas where other services do not, giving everyone the option to eat their favorite foods without leaving home.

With the easy-to-use app, you can get lunch or dinner sent to your home or office in no time.

Even people who never order out review the service as a simple way to save time.

We all have different reasons for wanting to stay at home. You may not feel like getting groceries or you may want to support a small business during Covid 19.

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Either way, DoorDash's widespread availability takes care of all your needs. If you want to save a few bucks on service fees, it's also cool to make a purchase for pickup.

DoorDash meal delivering services are most compatible with people looking to get something delivered from a restaurant that doesn't typically deliver.

DoorDash Review: Pros, Cons, and How to Get Started with Delivery (8)

DoorDash

  • Can sort dining options by lots of different filters
  • Lots of flexibility for ordering in advance or with a group
  • Can send a message to your Dasher about your order
  • Track your food as it is being prepared and delivered

DoorDash Review: Pros, Cons, and How to Get Started with Delivery (9)

Author: Paul

Hi, I'm Paul. Welcome to my website! I, along with my cronies, are leveraging our years of working in the food industry to review meal and drink delivery services. We review. You eat happily ever after.

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