9+ Best Independent Contractor Package Delivery Apps: Ranked & Reviewed [2023]

Are you looking for top side hustles that offer flexibility and a high earning potential?

You can become an independent contractor package delivery driver and work for various delivery driver apps, provided you have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.

To help you get started, we’ve made a list of the best package delivery apps for independent contractors.

An Overview of Package Delivery Apps for an Independent Contractor

What Is a Package Delivery App for an Independent Contractor?

It’s an app that connects a contractor with delivery opportunities, such as grocery delivery, alcohol delivery, and food delivery.

The contractor signs up and completes a background check then the delivery app notifies them when there are delivery gigs within their location.

Each delivery app has specific requirements but generally includes a minimum age, a valid driver’s license, an insured vehicle, and a Social Security number (SSN).

Why Are Contractor Package Delivery Apps Important?

These delivery apps match customers to contractors, ensuring they receive their packages on time.

They’re helpful for e-commerce businesses that aim to fulfill orders within a short period without hiring full-time employees or maintaining a fleet of cars.

Also, contractor delivery apps create job opportunities for those who want to take advantage of the flexibility and high earning potential in the gig economy.

Do I Need a Contractor Package Delivery App?

You need a contractor package delivery app if you’re seeking ways to supplement your income, want to get paid weekly or daily to deliver items, or want to become your boss.

This opportunity is also valuable when landing a traditional job is challenging, or your income can’t sustain your growing needs due to changes in the economy.

The Best Contractor Package Delivery Apps at a Glance

If you’re considering the best package delivery app for contractors, you should check out our top picks:

What Is the Best Package Delivery App for Contractors?

DoorDash is the best package delivery app for contractors.

The food delivery service is available in several locations, is easy to join, and offers more options like delivering groceries.

A delivery driver can set up a convenient delivery time and earn more money when working during peak periods.

What Is the Most Popular Package Delivery App for Contractors?

Uber Eats is the most popular package delivery app for independent contractors.

This is because Uber Eats has a large customer base, which allows you to earn more money. It’s also easy to start working on this delivery app.

Features to Look For in Package Delivery Apps for Independent Contractors

Before you choose which package delivery services to use, below are essential features to consider.

Ease of Use

The best delivery app has a clean interface that makes navigation easy.

It should also have a simple dashboard where you can access all functionalities, such as viewing and accepting package delivery requests, communicating with customers, and updating proof of delivery.

Real-Time Tracking

This feature is essential for you and the customer as it helps to build trust.

The delivery service app should provide the driver’s location in real-time, estimated arrival time, and clear directions to the customer’s house.

Information About Earnings

You should be able to access information about your earnings, including base pay, bonuses, tips, and other incentives.

This information shows that the delivery business is transparent in its payment calculations.

Also, it’ll assist you in tracking income for proper tax payments.

Reports and Analytics

The delivery app should have a report and analytics feature, enabling you to see your monthly performance, fuel consumption, delivery cost, and planned routes.

These pieces of information are critical for self-improvement and maintaining a good reputation as a delivery driver.

Accessible and Robust Support and Help Center

A comprehensive driver support system ensures you get help when you encounter issues, such as a confusing delivery area or a customer refusing to accept their orders.

It’d be best if you looked for features like live chat, a dedicated helpline, and a help center with adequate resources for handling delivery issues.

Best Package Delivery Apps for an Independent Contractor: Our Top 3 Options [Ranked & Reviewed]

1. DoorDash: Our Pick

DoorDash started in 2013 as a food delivery service, allowing customers to choose from over 300,000 national and local restaurants across the US, Australia, Canada, and Japan.

Its food delivery app has expanded to accommodate more items like alcohol delivery service, grocery delivery, on-demand floral bouquet delivery, and pickups from convenience stores.

DoorDash drivers are called Dashers, and you don’t need a car to get started if you don’t have one. Depending on the regulations of your city, a bicycle or scooter can serve.

Key Features of DoorDash

• Schedule Hours: Dashers can sign up for shifts and set their availability, enabling them to work at their preferred time.
• Delivery Requests: You’ll get delivery requests from your zone with an option to accept or decline, depending on your availability and the pay.
• Route Optimization: DoorDash app shows you the best routes to pick up a package and deliver it to the customer’s location. You can also guesstimate the arrival time through this means.
• In-App Messaging: The app has a messaging feature that allows Dashers to communicate with customers in case there are issues, such as a delay in delivery.
• Earnings Tracking: You’ll see how much you’ll earn from each delivery, including tips and bonuses.

Pros of DoorDash

• Modern Interface: The DoorDash app has an outstanding user interface design that’s easy to navigate. DoorDash drivers can access its features even if they’re not tech-savvy.
• Easy Sign-Up Process: The requirements to get started are achievable since no previous work experience is needed. But you should possess a valid driver’s license, Social Security number (SSN), and auto insurance and undergo background checks.
• Wide Availability: DoorDash is available in over 7,000 cities with a large customer base, offering the potential for more delivery opportunities and money.

Cons of DoorDash

• Expenses: Dashers take responsibility for expenses, such as vehicle maintenance, gas, and auto insurance, which could affect their earnings.
• Rating System: DoorDash assesses the performance of delivery drivers through customer feedback. Negative feedback and poor ratings from customers may reduce your access to bonuses and incentives.
• High Level of Competition: The delivery service industry is highly competitive as delivery drivers now stack up customer orders to earn more money. Drivers available in a high-demand delivery zone will take up high-paying orders, leaving the low-paying ones for the latecomers.

DoorDash Income

DoorDash base pay is between $2 to $10 per delivery, depending on the order size, delivery distance, frequency of deliveries, and how fast you deliver packages.

Dashers earn an average of $18 to $25 per hour.

DoorDash allows delivery drivers to keep 100% of the tips, and you can earn extra money through peak pay bonuses and challenges.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose DoorDash?

DoorDash offers an excellent opportunity for food delivery services from different restaurants.

It’s ideal for people who want flexibility and can work during peak hours when orders are many and drivers are few.

2. Uber Eats: Runner-Up

Uber Eats is a popular food delivery service in 6,000 cities across 45 countries.

In 2020, Uber Eats purchased Postmates, a popular logistics app, to gain more grounds as one of the best food delivery apps.

It also included options for delivering groceries and alcohol and pickups from convenience stores.

Whether you’re an Uber driver or a customer, you can sign up to become a Uber Eats driver and deliver packages by car, bicycle, scooter, or foot.

Key Features of Uber Eats

• Flexible Scheduling: Delivery drivers can schedule hours in advance or accept orders at any time.
• Order Navigation: Once you receive a notification of an order, you’ll see information about the delivery location and a simple navigation guide for picking up and dropping the package.
• Delivery History: You can access records of your previous deliveries, customer ratings, and earnings. This feature allows you to track your progress and file taxes accurately.
• Driver Support: The Uber app offers 24/7 phone support for delivery drivers, FAQs, and helpful guides for assisting drivers if they encounter issues or have questions.
• Perks and Rewards: Uber Eats motivates its delivery drivers with its Rewards program, offering various incentives like cash back on gas, discounts on car maintenance, and tuition coverage for you or an eligible family member.

Pros of Uber Eats

• Flexible Earning Opportunity: You can start delivering food with Uber Eats even if you already work with the Uber app for ride-sharing.
• Instant Cash: Food delivery drivers can cash out instantly up to five times daily.
• Easy to Get Started: The requirements for signing up as an Uber Eats delivery driver are straightforward. You should have a valid driver’s license, a valid ID, a reliable vehicle, and car insurance. The company will also run a background check using your SSN.

Cons of Uber Eats

• Vehicle Wear and Tear: Constant driving leads to wear and tear, which means you’ll have to maintain the vehicle frequently.
• Waiting Time: When doing a restaurant delivery, the food may not be ready on arrival, which could affect your overall delivery time.
• Fluctuating Earnings: Your earnings may fluctuate depending on your location, tips from customers, time of day, and volume of orders you receive.

Uber Eats Income

Uber Eats base pay ranges between $2 to $4, depending on whether you’re picking multiple orders and the distance between the restaurant and the customer’s location.

On average, drivers can earn between $15 and $25 per hour.

Drivers can keep all their tips and earn extra money from delivering items in surge zones during busy periods.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose Uber Eats?

Uber Eats has a large customer base, which means you’ll always have work to do. And whether you’re biking, driving, scooting, or walking, you can sign up to get started.

3. Amazon Flex: Also Great

Amazon Flex is an on-demand delivery service for its chain of businesses: Amazon Restaurants, Amazon Prime Now, Amazon Prime, and Amazon Fresh.

The delivery service is available in over 100 cities and towns in the US and recruits periodically.

If your city isn’t listed, downloading the delivery app and creating an account would help Amazon know you’re interested in becoming a delivery partner.

Key Features of Amazon Flex

• Optimized Map: Amazon Flex map shows live traffic conditions, speed limits, and areas where roads are closed, enabling delivery drivers to choose the best route. You can also download the map for offline use if you find yourself in an area with limited network coverage.
• Vehicle Insurance and Maintenance Discounts: If you already have personal vehicle insurance, Amazon’s commercial auto insurance policy covers your vehicle when delivering items. Also, you’ll get discounts on vehicle maintenance, gas, and tires after your first delivery.
• In-App Messaging: The delivery app enables texting or calling customers to notify them of your arrival. It also alerts customers to remove obstructions on pathways and secure pets to prevent accidents during delivery.
• Safety Resources: Delivery drivers can access safety training in the form of videos and articles from the learning portal.
• Dedicated Support: You can contact the support team via call or live chat. Also, if you encounter an emergency during delivery, the app has an emergency help button for calling 911.

Pros of Amazon Flex

• Independent Work: You can choose the number of blocks (shifts) you can work daily and still get paid if you don’t complete the delivery.
• High-Income Potential: Amazon is one of the largest e-commerce platforms with a high demand for various items. It implies that you may never run out of work.
• Rewards: You can earn points as you drive to qualify for cashback and discounts.

Cons of Amazon Flex

• Physical Demands: Amazon deliveries may involve carrying heavy packages which require stamina and physical exertion.
• Limited Benefits: Besides Amazon’s commercial car insurance, contractors don’t benefit from paid time off, medical care, or pension.
• Limited Blocks: The delivery app has a block limit of eight hours daily, which may affect your earnings if this is your main job.

Amazon Flex Income

The delivery app pays an hourly rate of $18 to $25, but your actual earnings depend on your location, tips, and delivery distance.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose Amazon Flex?

If Amazon Flex is in your city, you should jump on the offer because Amazon may never run out of customers who want items delivered to their doorsteps.

Notable Mentions: Other Contractor Package Delivery Apps to Check Out

4. Shipt: Best for Grocery Delivery

Shipt is a subscription-based grocery delivery service owned by Target and is available in over 5,000 cities.

The platform partners with local grocery stores and popular retailers like Costco, Petco, Meijer, and CVS.

A Shipt delivery driver, known as a Shipt shopper, can work when they want without scheduling hours, making it suitable for college students and anyone who wants to make extra cash in their spare time.

Why Is This a Great Option?

Unlike other delivery services, Shipt shopper requirements aren’t outrageous.

The minimum age for shoppers is 18 years, and they should own a smartphone, a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and a mailing address.

They should also possess basic knowledge of products and be able to lift up to 45 pounds. Shipt will conduct a background check after you’ve submitted all necessary documents.

Shipt shoppers can access several perks and bonuses, such as discounts on tax preparation, car maintenance, and healthcare coverage.

And if you want to shop for groceries for yourself, you won’t pay a delivery fee as shoppers automatically get a free membership pass.

Drawbacks to Shipt Shopper

Although the Shipt shopper requirements are minimal, you’ll only get accepted if there’s a demand for grocery delivery in your location.

Shipt doesn’t offer mileage reimbursement, but you can deduct it from your taxes.

If you don’t know the exact spot to find products in grocery stores, you’ll spend more time shopping than on delivery, which may impact your customer ratings.

Shipt Shopper Income

Shipt shoppers can earn between $16 to $22 per hour with an opportunity to earn more after completing 100 orders.

Also, you’ll get paid weekly on a Friday, giving you extra money for the weekend.

5. Favor Delivery: Best for Running Errands

Favor is a delivery business that’s based in Texas, offering a convenient way for customers to request and receive grocery delivery within an hour.

Favor calls its delivery drivers runners, and they can work part-time or full-time using a car or bicycle if they don’t have a driver’s license.

Besides groceries, a delivery driver can do food delivery and personal assistant duties like picking up dry cleaning.

Why Is This a Great Option?

Favor allows you to schedule hours based on your availability, which means you can work for another food delivery service like Uber Eats to boost your income.

There’s also automatic vehicle insurance that covers third-party liability while running deliveries and other perks like discounts on car maintenance.

Drawbacks to Favor Delivery

Favor is only available in Texas, but the company is considering an expansion to the Midwest.

Favor Delivery Income

Favor runners get an hourly pay of $10 to $18, depending on the location, time of day, the volume of delivery, and customer demand.

The actual earnings are based on individual promos and tips from customers.

While Favor allows its runners to keep 100% of their tips, they remit 35% of the delivery fee to the company.

6. Saucey: Best for Alcohol Delivery

Saucey is an alcohol delivery app with a wide selection of liquor, including vodka, beer, whisky, wine, and tobacco.

The service is available in 40 cities and guarantees on-demand delivery under 30 minutes or two days of shipping, depending on your location.

Saucey offers its services between 8 am and 2 am, opening a convenient delivery window for nightcrawlers.

Why Is This a Great Option?

Delivering alcohol is becoming a trend in the gig economy.

Food delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats have added the service, but Saucey offers alcohol exclusively and gives a delivery driver more options to choose from.

Drawbacks to Saucey

Saucey is only available in major cities, and its delivery driver requirements may not favor everyone as the minimum age is 21 years.

You should also have an insured vehicle that’s a 2007 or newer model and a clean driving record.

Another drawback is that some clients may not give tips, and you’re responsible for checking the ID of customers before completing the delivery.

Saucey Income

You can earn between $10 to $12 per hour or more if you get tips.

7. Eaze: Best for Recreational Cannabis

Eaze is a legit marijuana delivery service operating within California and Michigan.

Its mission is to educate consumers about cannabis as a wellness tool and ensure they can safely access legal cannabis.

As a delivery driver, you’d assist licensed retailers in delivering recreational cannabis to adult customers.

This way, you’d promote convenient access to safe and high-quality products.

Why Is This a Great Option?

Eaze has a vast selection of cannabis products, such as edibles, flowers, and concentrates, from well-known brands.

And with the legalization of recreational cannabis in some states, you’ll be working for a pioneer delivery service with a large customer base.

Drawbacks of Eaze

Unlike other delivery services that accept a minimum age of 18, Eaze only accepts drivers who are 21 years and older.

You should also own a newer version of iPhone or Android to use the driver’s app, and the vehicle you use for delivery must be registered in your name.

Because the cannabis industry is highly regulated, Eaze carries out a background check that takes weeks to get approval. You can’t sign up today and start earning immediately.

Since the company only delivers to California and Michigan, contractors in other states where recreational weed isn’t permitted can’t benefit from the platform.

Eaze Income

Eaze drivers earn guaranteed hourly pay with mileage reimbursement. On average, drivers earn between $18 to $26 per hour.

8. BiteSquad: Best for Small Restaurant Delivery

Bite Squad is a smaller restaurant delivery service covering more than 200 cities in the US.

Besides food delivery services, Bite Squad allows drivers to deliver liquor and alcoholic beverages to customers.

Why Is This a Great Option?

When working with Bite Squad, you can choose your preferred hours, offering you the flexibility of working for other food delivery services or doing other jobs.

The sign-up process is straightforward, and you’ll get a response within three business days.

If your driver performance remains consistently high, Bite Squad rewards you with more time slots to choose from.

You’ll also get discounts for car maintenance at JiffyLube, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Good Year, Verizon, and PerkSpot.

Bite Squad features a responsive support team that you can contact from the food delivery app if you encounter issues during delivery.

Drawbacks of BiteSquad

As with most food delivery services, you’re responsible for your car insurance, gas, and vehicle maintenance, which impacts your earnings.

But it’d help if you track your mileage for accurate tax filing.

The food delivery app may prompt you to download other apps for scheduling and accessing payments.

You should consider checking the security of those apps before inputting your personal details.

BiteSquad Income

Bite Squad delivery drivers earn an average hourly rate of $15 to $24, depending on their location.

The food delivery app has a base pay for each order, and delivering food during surge periods plus tips can increase your overall earnings.

9. Gopuff: Best for Everyday Needs

GoPuff brings everything you can find in a convenience store into a single app.

You’ll find everyday items like fresh groceries, quick meals, pantries, ice cream, snacks, alcohol, over-the-counter medications, pet essentials, baby wipes, and tampons.

The delivery service is similar to Amazon but guarantees quick delivery within 30 minutes, depending on your location.

Why Is This a Great Option?

GoPuff offers a wide range of delivery opportunities, combining the strengths of the best food delivery app, grocery delivery, and alcohol delivery.

It’s easy to sign up, provided you own an insured vehicle in your name, are at least 21 years old, and possess a valid driver’s license and a smartphone that uses the latest operating system.

Instead of driving all the way to several restaurants to pick up orders, GoPuff has a central pickup point.

Also, you can choose the number of deliveries you want to complete each day.

Drawbacks of Gopuff

GoPuff is only available in 1,000 cities in the US, which is significantly smaller than DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex.

Customers pay in cash, which may pose a problem if you’re not comfortable with moving around with a lot of money.

The procedures involved in delivering alcohol are tedious. You have to scan IDs to ensure you’re not delivering it to a minor.

Also, it’s your responsibility to ensure an adult signs off the order. And if there’s no adult in sight, that’s another potential cause of delay.

GoPuff Income

GoPuff offers a minimum wage per hour, depending on the driver’s location.

You can make between $18 to 25 per hour, and tips can increase your earnings since the company allows you to keep everything.

Other Options Relevant to Package Delivery Apps for Contractors

If you don’t own an insured vehicle or meet the numerous requirements for delivery drivers, there are other ways to make extra cash.

• Game Apps to Win Real Money: Do you love playing games on your phone? Check out these apps offering real money for winning game rounds.
• Companies That Pay for Ideas: Get paid when you submit your unique, scalable business ideas and patented innovations.
• High Paying Surveys: Can you spare a few minutes daily to complete questionnaires and other small tasks? Check out these high-paying survey sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping Up

Now you know the best package delivery apps for delivering various items, whether it’s food, alcohol, or grocery.

And as an independent contractor, you don’t have to be loyal to one app.

The best delivery apps allow you to schedule hours and work when you’re available. This way, you can share your time between two or more apps and earn more money.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and share this article if you like it.