In today's gig economy, there’s a growing need for flexibility and the opportunity to earn money in different ways.
If you're already an Uber driver, or thinking of becoming one, you might be wondering if you can also work for Uber Eats. The good news? You can, and here's your complete guide on how to do it.
Can you drive for Uber and Uber Eats at the same time?
Yes, you can! Uber allows its drivers to take on Ubear Eats food deliveries along with passenger rides meaning you can do both at the same time.
Interestingly, while customers use two separate apps for Uber rides and Uber Eats, drivers use the same app for both services. This saves drivers the hassle of working between different apps, while reducing the chance of any confusion.
How can I sign up for Uber Eats if I'm already an Uber Driver?
If you're already driving for Uber, you don't need to reapply for Uber Eats. Once you're in the Uber driver's app, you'll find an option to activate Uber Eats. This means you can start delivering food while using the same vehicle you registered for Uber rides.
However, Uber recommends having an insulated delivery bag to keep your customers' food warm. While Uber doesn't provide these bags, they are available to buy from various retailers. Remember, a good service, including delivering warm food, can lead to positive ratings, improving your chances of success as an Uber driver.
Can I handle Uber Rides and Uber Eats deliveries during the same shift?
Yes! The Uber driver app provides an option to toggle between food delivery and rideshare requests. This means you can work shifts offering rides or food deliveries, whenever you want.
During rush hours, you're likely to get more ride requests, whereas meal times often bring a surge in food delivery orders. By keeping yourself open to both, you're expanding your opportunities to earn more.
It's good to know that the Uber app won't send you simultaneous requests to pick up a passenger and a food delivery. The app is smart enough to manage your assignments, making sure you're not overwhelmed.
Can I work for other apps while working for Uber Eats?
As independent contractors, insured Uber drivers have the flexibility to work for other driving apps. However, if you do drive for more than one platform, it's important to manage this properly – you don’t want to end up being double-booked for different orders from different apps!
For drivers delivering for Uber Eats and driving passengers for Uber, this risk is reduced as both services are managed within the same app.
How can I transition from Uber Eats to UberX?
While moving from UberX to Uber Eats is quite straightforward, the reverse process involves a few additional steps. Uber needs to ensure your vehicle is fit to transport passengers, which means you’ll need a vehicle inspection.
Once you've passed the inspection and received your "trade dress", including stickers and placards identifying you as an Uber driver, you can start accepting UberX requests, as well.
Conclusion
Becoming an Uber driver who also delivers for Uber Eats can be a great way to maximise your income. The ability to shift between passenger rides and food deliveries allows you to make the most of your shifts, all within the same app.
Whether you're already an Uber driver or considering becoming one, keep Uber Eats in mind for that additional income stream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for other delivery apps while also working for Uber Eats?
Yes, you can. As an independent contractor, each Uber driver has the flexibility to work for other gig apps at the same time. However, it's important to manage your time effectively to avoid accepting orders or rides on multiple platforms at the same time. Juggling too many tasks might lead to cancellations, which could lower your rating on either platform.
What is the process to switch between Uber and Uber Eats?
The Uber driver app has been designed to make it really easy to switch between passenger and food delivery requests. Inside the app, drivers will find a preferences option, shown by an icon that looks like two on-off switches. Here, you can choose to accept delivery requests, rideshare requests, or both.
Uber has built the app in a way that means you won't receive simultaneous requests for a ride and a delivery. So you don't need to worry about handling multiple tasks at once.
What are the risks of working for both Uber Eats and Uber?
Working for both Uber and Uber Eats allows you to maximise your earnings, but it also comes with certain risks. For example, if you've chosen to accept both ride and delivery requests, you might find yourself in a situation where you're unable to carry out one request because you’re already committed to another.
Also, if you're delivering food, there's the added risk of food smells lingering in your vehicle, which some passengers might find off-putting. This could lead to lower ratings.
How do I optimise my earnings while working between Uber and Uber Eats?
To optimise your earnings, try to align your shifts with peak times for ride requests and food delivery orders. For example, during the morning or evening rush hours, the demand for ride requests will be higher. While meal times – lunch and dinner – are typically busier for food delivery. So try to set your availability during those times in your area.
To do this, simply use the preferences toggle in the Uber app to choose when you’re available shifts. It's a smart way to increase your chances of earning more.
Does Uber rideshare pay better than Uber Eats?
The amount you can earn with Uber rideshare and Uber Eats depends on a few different factors – things like your location, the time of day you choose to work, and customer demand.
Some Uber drivers can make more money with Uber rideshare, due to higher base pay rates and surge pricing during peak hours. However, others have found that they earn more on Uber Eats because of the better tips that tend to be given by food delivery customers.
It’s also good to think about your preferences when it comes to the type of service. If you enjoy driving and interacting with passengers, you might find Uber rideshare more rewarding. Whereas if you prefer the simplicity and freedom of making food deliveries, Uber Eats could be a better fit for you.