Postmates application process
The Postmates application process is quick and easy. If you want to work for Postmates, apply by following these steps.
Create a Postmates account
Creating an account means giving Postmates your basic information: name, date of birth, photo, phone number, and address. It is important to make sure your address is entered correctly as Postmates will send your welcome package to that address.
Agreement with the fleet
Then, you will read and accept the terms and conditions. This will include all the detailed clauses about working as a Postmates driver. You will want to take a good look at these terms before signing up so that you are informed about the details of your work.
Background check
When applying for Postmates, you must pass your criminal background and motorization checks. These checks ensure that Postmates’ drivers live up to company standards for honest drivers and citizens. You can expect the results to be returned to you in 3-10 days.
Set up direct deposit
Once you’ve cleared your background checks, you’ll want to set up your direct deposit so you can get paid for the deliveries you make. You will receive your direct deposits weekly from Postmates, although there is an option for instant pay. Instant Pay will give you your earnings ($ 5 or more) immediately, but with a $ 0.50 fee per transfer.
Working for Postmates
Once you have completed your application and are hired by Postmates, you can immediately begin taking delivery orders. Let’s see what to expect from your first delivery.
An order will appear in your Postmates app and you will have the opportunity to accept or reject the order. By accepting, the app will give you the fastest route to the shop or restaurant where the order was placed.
When you arrive at the store, the order can already be made for you. However, sometimes you have to put the order together yourself, or you may have to wait for the workers to finish putting the order together. Either way, don’t worry – you’ll get paid for every expense or waiting time at the store.
Some orders are paid for in the app, so you just need to pick up your order and you’re on your way. If the order is not prepaid, you will use your Postmates credit card sent in your welcome kit. After making your purchase, take a photo of your receipt and upload it to the app. Either way, you’ll never have to use your money to cover an order.
With the order in hand, the Postmates app will give you the fastest route to the delivery address. Be sure to check for any specific delivery instructions, such as gate codes or where to place the delivery. Once it arrives, simply drop the order and take a photo.
How is the payment calculated?
Postmates drivers are paid based on the time it takes to buy/wait, collect and deliver a delivery. In addition, drivers are paid a fee per mile driven.
The rates you pay depend on your location – larger cities tend to pay more per order. Regardless of your location, however, all Postmates drivers can keep 100% of the tips they receive from customers.
Are there any tricks to earn more?
If you deliver during peak hours, you are more likely to make more deliveries and get paid more for each delivery.
These peak times tend to be during lunch and dinner hours and on weekends. Additionally, Blitz Orders can be triggered, which are orders that pay a premium based on turnout in your area.
You can also check your email for promotional bonuses that occur from time to time, where you can earn extra money if you meet certain requirements.
What happens if an order is canceled?
If an order is canceled before you have arrived at the store or while you are waiting to pick it up, then you will receive a small refund for that order.
However, if the order is canceled when you are on your way to the delivery address, you will receive your entire winnings.
However, you shouldn’t expect to be tipped on these orders. If you already have the order on hand, you can choose what to do with the items in the order.
Postmates vs DoorDash
DoorDash is one of Postmates’ biggest competitors, so you may be wondering which is the best choice for you. Let’s try to explain it to you.
Program
DoorDash allows you to schedule work shifts in advance if you prefer to plan your hours in advance. However, you are also able to DoorDash on demand by clicking the “Dash Now” button in their app.
On the other hand, Postmates doesn’t have the ability to schedule ahead, so you can simply choose to deliver when it’s convenient for you. Postmates has more hours at their disposal though because they are available 24/7.
Deliveries
DoorDash will show you if an order is guaranteed to be paid, regardless of its outcome. This is not an advantage that Postmates offers.
However, Postmates will not lower your rating if you decline deliveries. Refusing an order on DoorDash can damage your credit rating.
Position
Postmates is currently available in 189 US cities, with approximately 80% of households having access to it.
DoorDash is currently available in 4,000 cities in a variety of countries, giving it a global advantage over Postmates. DoorDash is also available in smaller towns and villages more often than Postmates, so your location can be a deciding factor.