Deliveroo is one of the top food delivery services in the UK, with over 7 million users. In recent years, the sight of Deliveroo riders zipping through UK streets has become familiar, but have you ever wondered what it would be like to work for them? Food delivery services have become one of the leading side hustles in recent years, and Deliveroo is one of the most popular ones. But what is really like to work as a deliveroo rider, is it worth it?
What Do You Need To Work As A Deliveroo Rider?
Firstly, you need some sort of vehicle, whether that is a bike, e-bike, scooter, or car. You will also need to have insurance if appropriate. Standard car insurance doesn’t cover you for working as a delivery driver, so you will need to arrange insurance that covers you for this. This can add a significant premium to your insurance.
You will also need appropriate safety equipment, such as a helmet if you are using a bike or scooter, and comfortable riding gear as you will be out in all weathers and conditions. Deliveroo offers free accident insurance that covers all riders while online, which is one of the job’s perks. If you are injured and unable to work, or if you are a regular rider who gets assaulted, you might be able to claim on this insurance.
You will also need a reliable smartphone to use the app. The current requirements (July 24) are 13.6 iOS or Android 6 or higher. Finally, you must be over 18 and eligible to work in the UK.
How Much Will You Earn?
There is no clear-cut answer to this. Jobs are priced depending on distance, weather conditions, and other factors. Most Deliveroo riders agree that the prime times are evenings and weekends, but depending on the area, work may be patchy during weekday daytime.
Deliveroo pays between £2.90 and £6.oo per job, and the average rider makes £13 an hour. However, remember to factor in overheads such as the running costs and maintenance of your vehicle and data and mobile costs, which will reduce your hourly rate. Some riders struggle to make minimum hourly wage, especially if their work hours are limited to off-peak or less busy times.
Deliveroo offers riders the option to get paid instantly, which can be helpful for those who need quick access to their earnings. Otherwise, you will be paid weekly, every Tuesday.
Although tipping is not a big part of UK culture, Deliveroo riders do get to keep all the tips that they are given, which can be a nice bonus to your income. Overall, Deliveroo is much better as a side hustle than a primary job. Use it to earn extra money rather than rely on it for your primary income.
What Riders Say About Deliveroo
Deliveroo is rated 3.4 out of 5 on Glassdoor, so most riders have a somewhat positive experience.
Low pay and long hours seem to be the significant gripes. Conversely, riders like the flexibility the job offers, as they can choose their working hours.
The job is physically demanding, which can benefit those who enjoy staying active. Cycling or scootering around the city keeps you fit and healthy, and you may find yourself climbing stairs to make deliveries which counts as cardio!
Earnings can be highly variable. During off-peak times or in areas with less demand, income can drop significantly. The unpredictability can make it difficult to rely solely on this job for a stable income.
Being A Deliveroo Rider, Is It Worth It?
Pros
- Flexible Working Hours
- Be Your Own Boss/Independence
- Keeps You Active
- Good Earnings Potential During Peak Times
- Instant Pay Option
Cons
- Unpredictable Income
- High Expenses
- Physically Demanding
- Risk To Safety
- Lack of Employment Benefits
- Wear and Tear on Own Vehicle
- Social Isolation
So, is being a Deliveroo rider worth it? Much depends on the area you live in and the hours you are available to work. If you can work prime hours such as Friday and Saturday evenings or late nights, then you will earn much more than if you can only work a few hours in the daytime.
It also depends on the vehicle you have and its running costs. Obviously, a bicycle is the cheapest option, but deliveries will take longer, and you may not earn as much. A car may be fast, but additional insurance costs, fuel, and maintenance will really eat into your earnings.
While some riders make a full-time living from Deliveroo, most use it as a side hustle to earn extra money when needed. If you are looking for flexibility, freedom, and fresh air, it might just be your job!
Find out more about becoming a Deliveroo rider and apply now.
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