Having driven for GrubHub for a month now, I wanted to give an insight into the pros and cons of GrubHub and share my experiences and insights with anyone considering this line of work. In this blog, I’ll outline the advantages and disadvantages of the job, from the flexibility of the work to the challenges of customer scams and late requests.

Pros: The Perks of GrubHub

Guaranteed Income

One of the biggest advantages of working for GrubHub is the guaranteed income. In my area, the minimum payment is $12 per hour. This means that even if I work a 40-hour week and don’t make $12 an hour, GrubHub will make up the difference. This is especially beneficial when it comes to tips. The only condition is that you need to accept all the deliveries offered during your shift to qualify for this guarantee, which is a small price to pay for such financial security.

Flexibility

GrubHub offers an unparalleled level of flexibility in terms of work hours and location. I have the freedom to work close to home and choose my own hours. If I want to boost my income, I can focus on the peak hours, usually lunchtime and early evenings when demand is high. Otherwise, I can opt for a more relaxed schedule, working during off-peak hours and enjoying a more laid-back approach. Personally, I prefer the night shift as there is less traffic to contend with, and there are still plenty of deliveries to be made.

Consistent Payment

GrubHub’s payment system is a definite pro. They provide weekly payments, deposited directly into my account every Thursday without fail. This consistency is fantastic for budgeting and financial planning. I always know exactly when I’ll be paid and can usually estimate my earnings for the week, which is a huge help when managing my finances.

Cons: The Challenges of GrubHub

1099 Status: The Downside

One of the main cons of working for GrubHub is the 1099 status. As an independent contractor, you are not classified as an employee. This means that expenses like insurance, medical coverage, car maintenance, and other costs are your responsibility. Come tax season, you’ll also need to navigate the complexities of tax reporting, and taxes can take a significant chunk (up to 30%) of your net income. Leasing a fuel-efficient car can help mitigate these costs, and it’s important to remember that all these expenses are tax-deductible, from work meals to gas and maintenance.

Scheduling: A Competitive Landscape

Scheduling can be a competitive and challenging aspect of working for GrubHub. As a new driver, you start at the bottom of the scheduling ladder. This means you get last pick when it comes to shifts and have to accept all delivery requests to maintain a good rating and work your way up. Premier drivers, who have likely been with the company longer, get first dibs on schedules, leaving lower-level drivers with less desirable options.

Block Dumping

Block dumping is an unexpected challenge with GrubHub. Sometimes, a driver will drop their block (shift), and you’ll have the opportunity to pick up an extra block during the week. While this can be a chance for extra income, it can also disrupt your planned schedule and create unpredictability in your routine.

Scamming Customers: A Frustrating Experience

Unfortunately, one of the worst parts about working for GrubHub is dealing with scamming customers. Some people will place orders without tipping and then promise a cash tip upon delivery. However, when you arrive, they may not answer the door, or they simply won’t tip as promised. This leaves you with just the delivery fee, which can be frustrating, especially when you’ve driven a long way. While GrubHub’s minimum hourly income offers some protection, it doesn’t make up for the time lost or the frustration of dealing with these customers.

Late Requests: A Race Against Time

Late requests are another con of the job. When another driver cancels or is late, the request is passed on to you, but you’re already starting off behind. Even if you call the customer to apologize and explain the situation, they often lose patience and cancel their order. This results in a waste of time and gas, and you’re left taking the blame for something that wasn’t your fault to begin with.

Pickup and Delivery: A Delicate Balance

The pickup and delivery process with GrubHub requires a delicate balance. When you arrive at a restaurant, you need to carefully check off all the items on the order, ensuring everything is correct and included. This can be time-consuming, and if there are delays at the restaurant, you risk upsetting the customer. It’s a constant juggle between getting the order right and delivering it promptly.

Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons of GrubHub

Working for GrubHub has its fair share of pros and cons. While guaranteed income, flexibility, and consistent payment are attractive perks, there are also challenges to consider, such as the 1099 status, scheduling competition, scamming customers, late requests, and the sometimes tedious pickup and delivery process.

In terms of income, my experience has been slightly lower than the marketed $1,000 per week, but with access to better schedules and peak hours, this could improve over time. Overall, delivering for GrubHub can be a decent source of income, but it’s important to go into it aware of the pros and cons of GrubHub and be prepared to navigate the various challenges that come with the territory.