Postmates vs DoorDash: A Complete Guide to Food Delivery Services

Quick Summary:

Are you torn between Postmates and DoorDash for your next food delivery order or considering driving for one of these platforms? With both apps offering similar services but distinct differences, it can be tough to decide which is the better choice.

Whether you’re craving a quick meal or looking for a flexible driving gig, this guide will help you navigate the key differences between Postmates and DoorDash and find the best option for your needs.

A Brief Introduction to Postmates and DoorDash

Postmates Founded in 2011 by Bastian Lehmann, Sam Street, and Sean Plaice, Postmates is an on-demand delivery service based in San Francisco. In 2020, it was acquired by UberEats, aiming to enhance its offerings and provide more diverse restaurant options to customers. Postmates serves over 4,000 cities in the United States, focusing on fast, efficient service for those in need of groceries, meals, and even alcohol deliveries.

DoorDash Established in 2013 by Tony Xu, Andy Fang, and Stanley Tang, DoorDash has quickly become a market leader in food delivery. Operating in over 4,000 cities, DoorDash partners with both national chains and local eateries. Known for its user-friendly platform and reliable service, it delivers meals, groceries, and other essentials to customers nationwide.

Postmates vs DoorDash: Key Differences

To help you decide between Postmates and DoorDash, here’s a breakdown of their key features:

Postmates vs DoorDash: Who Pays Drivers More?

When considering driving for food delivery platforms, the pay structure is one of the most important factors to assess. Both Postmates and DoorDash offer flexible driving opportunities, but their pay scales and payment methods vary significantly.

DoorDash Driver Pay

DoorDash drivers, often called “Dashers,” have the potential to earn between $23 and $25 per hour. This figure includes base pay, promotional earnings (such as peak pay and challenges), and 100% of the tips received from customers. DoorDash’s pay structure is designed to reward drivers not only for the distance traveled and the time spent delivering but also for the specific promotions and incentives the platform offers. For example, during busy times or in high-demand areas, DoorDash offers peak pay, which can significantly boost earnings.

Additionally, drivers who take on challenges or complete specific goals (like completing a set number of deliveries in a particular time frame) can earn extra bonuses. These extra earnings opportunities can make DoorDash a lucrative option, especially in areas with high delivery demand.

Postmates Driver Pay

Postmates drivers earn between $10 and $17 per hour, depending on factors such as delivery volume, distance traveled, time spent waiting at restaurants, and other variables. While this is generally lower than DoorDash’s average pay, Postmates drivers still earn 100% of the tips, which can increase their overall earnings.

Postmates also compensates its drivers for the time they spend waiting at restaurants to pick up orders, as well as for the distance traveled between the restaurant and the customer’s location. While this pay structure can sometimes be advantageous for drivers, it also means that the earnings may fluctuate more depending on the circumstances of each delivery.

Payment Schedule

• DoorDash: Dashers are paid on a weekly basis via direct deposit. This means drivers can expect a steady income, which can be easier to plan for, especially if they rely on DoorDash for regular work.
• Postmates: Postmates offers more flexibility in terms of payment. Drivers can opt for instant payment after each completed delivery, which is ideal for those who need immediate access to their earnings. Alternatively, drivers can choose to receive weekly direct deposits, just like DoorDash.

While both platforms offer convenient payment options, Postmates’ instant payment system gives drivers more control over when they receive their earnings.

Which is Better for Drivers: DoorDash or Postmates?

If you’re weighing the option of becoming a driver for either Postmates or DoorDash, here’s what you need to know about the driver requirements for both services:

DoorDash Driver Requirements:

To become a DoorDash driver, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Must own a smartphone (either iPhone or Android)
• Must have access to a vehicle (car, scooter, or bike)
• Must pass a background check and provide documentation such as a driver’s license and possibly your social security number (SSN) for verification.

DoorDash offers flexibility in terms of the type of vehicle you can use for deliveries, making it a great option for individuals who don’t own a car but have access to a scooter or bicycle.

Postmates Driver Requirements:

To drive for Postmates, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old (or 19 years old for those using a vehicle to drive)
• Own a smartphone (either iPhone or Android)
• Submit your SSN to pass the background check
• Have a clean driving record (for those who plan to use a vehicle for deliveries)

Postmates drivers have the advantage of delivering on foot if they don’t have a car, which is ideal for city dwellers or those who want to avoid the expense of vehicle maintenance.

Postmates vs DoorDash for Customers: Which Is Better?

When choosing between Postmates and DoorDash, it’s essential to consider how the platforms cater to customers, particularly in terms of customer service, delivery guarantees, and ease of use.

Postmates:

• Delivery Guarantee: One standout feature of Postmates is its delivery guarantee. If an order is late by more than 30 minutes or if the food is incorrect, Postmates offers a refund for the delivery fee. This can provide peace of mind for customers, especially if they’re worried about receiving their food on time or in the right condition.

DoorDash:

• Dedicated Customer Support: DoorDash takes customer service to the next level with dedicated support teams that can assist both customers and delivery drivers. Customers can reach out via phone, email, or in-app chat for any issues or concerns. This makes DoorDash a reliable choice for those who prefer more personalized support throughout their order process.

Both apps are user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces that make ordering quick and easy. However, if you value extensive customer service and quicker access to help, DoorDash might be the better choice for you.

The Final Verdict: Which App is Best for You?

Ultimately, the decision between Postmates and DoorDash depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a quick breakdown of who each platform is best suited for:

• DoorDash: If you’re looking for faster deliveries and access to a wider selection of restaurants, especially popular chains, DoorDash might be your best bet. The platform’s reliable customer service and additional driver incentives make it a top choice for both customers and delivery drivers. It’s ideal for those who want faster, more efficient service and a wider variety of food options.
• Postmates: If you prefer to support local businesses or need more flexible delivery options (like the ability to deliver by foot), Postmates may be more appealing. With a focus on independent restaurants and the ability to offer instant payment, Postmates can be a good fit for drivers seeking flexibility and customers looking for diverse food choices from smaller establishments.

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