Over the past year when the pandemic hit and many people stayed at home, the demand for delivery drivers increased. People began to get everything from groceries and prescriptions to office supplies delivered to their homes. Delivery became a safer method of acquiring the things we needed rather than crowding into stores and restaurants. As a result, companies like Uber, Doordash, and Postmates have soared in popularity.
Postmates is a company that provides a platform for “on-demand everything” delivery services. Similar to other platforms, Postmates delivers food. However, unlike other companies, they also bring groceries, alcohol, supplies, and other goods to your home. Working as a Postmates driver is a flexible job that allows you to earn as much or as little as you want. You don’t have to have any formal training, education, or special skills to qualify as a Postmates driver. There are some requirements in terms of your vehicle, driver’s license, and insurance, however.
If you want to drive for Postmates, there are a few things that you should consider. Let’s take a look at some of the ins and outs of being a Postmates delivery driver.
The Job
As a Postmates delivery driver, your most valuable work tools will be your car, cell phone, and the Postmates app. You’ll accept delivery requests through the app on your phone and then pick up the items from the designated store or restaurant. Once you have picked up the items, you will deliver them to the address found in the app. When customers place an order, they make the payment through the app. You will receive a prepaid fleet card and insulated bag as part of the welcome kit when you start. When you pick up the items, you will pay for them using the prepaid card.
One of the benefits of driving for Postmates is that it is a same-day pay job. This means that you can drive during the day and then cash out your earnings with Postmates Instant Pay Cash Out. As an independent contractor, your earnings will depend on how much time you spend online in the Postmates driver app completing deliveries. The service also allows you to batch orders to make fewer deliveries and earn more money. Additionally, your independent contractor status means that you are responsible for taking out and paying your income taxes.
Requirements
Similar to other platforms, there are minimum requirements that you must meet to be a Postmates driver. The onboarding process is 100 percent online and doesn’t require any in-person orientation. The basic requirements for a delivery driver are that you must be at least 18 years old, own a smartphone, hold a current driver’s license, have a valid social security number, and have transportation.
As for the vehicle requirements, they are not in-depth. Since Postmates isn’t a rideshare program, there aren’t any elevated safety or government requirements. To become a Postmates driver, you need a bicycle, scooter, car, or truck. You can even walk if you live in the city and have a good pair of sneakers.
If you are going to make deliveries in your car, however, you should be aware of the insurance requirements. While Postmates doesn’t have specific insurance requirements, your state and insurance company probably do. Postmates offers a limited amount of insurance to its drivers, but it might not cover you in an accident. Your personal insurance policy typically doesn’t cover your vehicle when it’s in use for commercial activities. To ensure that you’re protected, you should look into additional commercial coverages above your required minimum liability insurance.
Being a Postmates delivery driver can be a great way to supplement your income or serve as your full-time gig, depending on your situation. With some dedication, you can earn a decent payout for your delivery runs.
