17 Courier and Delivery Gigs in PDX

Embrace the freedom of earning on your own terms by signing up with a courier gig platform today. They provide an attractive income stream, allowing you to adapt to your personal schedule and preferences.

It’s a great option whether you want to ditch the confines of traditional nine-to-five, or make extra money outside of your full-time job. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing when, where, and how often you want to work.

Enjoy your favorite music, podcast, or audiobook during deliveries. Furthermore, with each delivery from a different restaurant or store, you expose yourself to hidden gems in Portland that you might not have discovered otherwise.

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Courier Gigs

Deliver food, groceries, packages, and who knows what else.

Deliver food. Work whenever you want. Allows in-app tipping. Use this referral link for a special offer.

Deliver food from local restaurants. Flexible hours. Earn tips.

Deliver food and earn on your own terms. Get paid fast. Earn tips.

Deliver everyday essentials. Flexible hours. Earn tips.

Deliver for Walmart. Set your own schedule. Competitive pay.

Deliver packages for Amazon. Set your own schedule. Competitive pay.

Shop for groceries and deliver to customers. Flexible schedule. Earn tips.

Shop from stores and deliver to customers. Set your own schedule. Earn tips.

Deliver packages and more. Choose your own jobs. Get paid quickly.

Deliver packages for businesses. Set your own schedule. Competitive pay.

Deliver packages and goods. Set your own schedule. Competitive earnings.

Deliver from stores. Flexible schedule. Earn competitive pay.

Deliver packages and manage customer deliveries. Set your own schedule. Competitive earnings.

Deliver packages and more. They seem to offer very long distance deliveries, and even pet delivery interestingly enough.

Deliver items and provide assistance for various tasks using your truck or van.

Make deliveries. Set your own schedule. Competitive earnings.

Make your own deliveries. Set your own schedule. Competitive pay.

Make sure to check out our huge list of even more ways to earn extra cash in PDX.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I expect to earn as a courier?

Earnings can vary widely based on factors such as the city you're working in, the time of day you work, and the number of deliveries you make. Some couriers report making between $10 and $20 per hour, but this can fluctuate, especially when considering tips. Keep in mind that expenses like fuel and vehicle maintenance will impact your net earnings.

What requirements must I meet to become a delivery driver?

Generally, most companies require you to be at least 18 or 19 years old, have a valid driver's license, own a smartphone, and have a reliable vehicle or bike. This is because you will be required to use your own transport to make the deliveries, and your smartphone to access the delivery app. Additionally, some platforms may require a background check to ensure that their drivers do not have a criminal record or a bad driving history. This is to ensure the safety and trust of the customers who use their service.

What are the vehicle requirements for courier gigs and can I use a scooter or bike?

Vehicle requirements can vary widely depending on the courier platform. Most platforms will require you to have a reliable vehicle and a valid driver's license. In some areas, certain platforms may allow deliveries to be made by scooter, bike, or even on foot. The platform should provide specific guidelines about what types of vehicles are acceptable.

What are some tips to maximize my earnings as a courier?

To maximize your earnings, consider working during peak times such as lunch and dinner when demand is highest. Accepting larger orders can also increase your income as tips are often percentage-based. Signing up for multiple platforms can help you select the most profitable deliveries. Remember to track your mileage and other business expenses for tax deductions. Finally, providing excellent service can increase your chances of receiving a tip: communicate well if there are any delays during the pickup, deliver orders promptly, and handle food and other items carefully.

What do the courier platforms look for in background checks?

Delivery platforms typically run background checks and look for major driving violations, and criminal records. The focus is often on driving safety, so things like DUIs, reckless driving, and excessive speeding could be problematic. Serious criminal offenses, particularly those related to theft or violence, could also disqualify you. Each platform has its own standards, and the exact criteria can vary, but overall, they are looking for couriers who will be safe and reliable.

How flexible is the work schedule for these courier gigs?

Courier gigs are known for their flexibility. Most platforms allow you to log in and out at will, which means you can decide when you want to work. However, you may find that certain times are busier and more lucrative than others, such as during lunch and dinner hours. It's also worth noting that demand can increase during bad weather or big events, and surge pricing may apply, offering the potential for increased earnings. Nonetheless, you have the freedom to choose your hours to a large extent.

How is payment determined for each delivery?

Payment for delivery gigs is typically calculated based on a few different factors. This often includes the distance of the delivery, the time it takes, and the size of the order. Some platforms have a base pay for each order and then add on additional payment for longer distances or more time-consuming deliveries. On top of that, you can also receive tips from customers, which can substantially increase your overall earnings. It's important to check the payment structure of each platform as they can differ.

What expenses should I consider?

When thinking about courier gigs, there are several expenses you should take into account. The most apparent are fuel costs. On top of that, you should also consider the wear and tear on your vehicle, as the additional miles can lead to more frequent servicing, tire changes, or even bigger repairs over time. Insurance is another major consideration as some personal auto insurance policies may not cover using your vehicle for business purposes. Lastly, don't forget about taxes - as an independent contractor, you're responsible for your own tax obligations.

Are there any benefits provided by these platforms?

Although traditional employee benefits like health insurance or paid leave are typically not provided to independent contractors, some delivery platforms have offered unique perks in the past. For instance, DoorDash has a program called DasherDirect, which offers cash back on gas, and a "Top Dasher" program that provides priority access to delivery opportunities for high-performing drivers. Uber Eats, on the other hand, provides discounts on auto maintenance, phone plans, and even tuition for online courses at ASU for eligible drivers. GrubHub has also offered perks such as discounted auto insurance and health care options through partnerships. However, the specifics of these programs can change, so it's important to understand what each platform is currently offering.

How does car insurance work for courier gigs?

When using your personal vehicle for courier work, your personal auto insurance may not provide coverage. Many personal policies exclude "business use" of your vehicle. Some delivery platforms may offer supplementary insurance that covers couriers during active deliveries, but it's essential to review these policies carefully. You may need to consider a commercial auto insurance policy or a rideshare endorsement on your personal policy for complete coverage. It's strongly recommended to discuss all of this with your insurance provider.

Can I choose which deliveries to accept?

Most courier platforms allow you to choose which deliveries to accept. When an order comes in, you'll typically see the pickup location, the estimated earnings, and possibly other details. You can then decide whether or not to accept that delivery based on that information.

What if a customer doesn't show up to receive their delivery?

Each platform has a different policy for no-show customers. Generally, you're advised to wait a certain amount of time, attempt to contact the customer, and then reach out to platform support for further instructions. In many cases, if the customer is unreachable or doesn't show up, you may be instructed to dispose of the order and will still receive payment.

How do taxes work for courier gigs?

As a courier, you're typically classified as an independent contractor, which means taxes are not automatically deducted from your earnings. Instead, you'll receive a 1099 form from the delivery platforms you work with (if you earn over a certain threshold), and you're responsible for reporting this income when you file your taxes. You may need to pay self-employment tax and potentially make quarterly estimated tax payments. Remember, you can often deduct business expenses, like mileage, from your taxable income. Make sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure you're correctly managing your tax obligations.

How can I track mileage for my courier work?

Tracking mileage is crucial for tax purposes as you can often deduct work-related mileage from your taxable income. While some courier platforms provide in-app mileage tracking, it may not capture all deductible miles (like those driven to reach a pickup location). Therefore, many couriers choose to use a separate, dedicated mileage-tracking app, or even just a manual log. Always consult with a tax professional to understand the best practices for your specific situation.

What equipment do I need for courier work?

Apart from a reliable vehicle and smartphone, there are a few other items that can make your courier job more efficient. A cell phone mount for your car is essential for safe navigation during driving. It's also a good idea to have a charging cable to ensure your phone doesn't run out of battery mid-shift. As for food deliveries, thermal bags for keeping things hot or cold are invaluable, and if you plan on delivering pizzas, a dedicated pizza bag can help to transport those safely and effectively. Keep in mind that while some companies may provide these, in most cases you'll be expected to acquire your own equipment. A flashlight can also come in handy if you're delivering at night or very early in the morning.

Do I need to wear a uniform or display any signs?

Most courier platforms do not require you to wear a uniform. However, some may provide or sell branded gear like shirts, hats, or car signs. While these aren't typically mandatory, they can help you appear more professional and can make it easier for customers to identify you. Always check the guidelines for each platform to understand their specific requirements.

What happens if I get a traffic ticket while on a delivery?

As an independent contractor, you are responsible for any traffic violations you incur while working. This includes parking tickets, speeding tickets, and other infractions. These violations can potentially affect your standing with the courier platform, particularly if they result in points on your license or if they occur while you're in possession of an order. Always prioritize safe and lawful driving.

Can I get fired from courier platforms?

Yes, courier platforms can deactivate your account, which is effectively the same as being fired. This can happen for a variety of reasons such as consistent late deliveries, failure to follow platform policies, low customer ratings, or serious misconduct like theft or harassment.

What should I expect when driving in different neighborhoods of Portland for courier gigs?

Navigating the various neighborhoods of Portland for courier gigs requires an understanding of their distinctive characteristics. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in each area:

Downtown Portland: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours, especially around popular business districts and tourist attractions. Parking options are limited, often requiring couriers to find alternative parking spots a few blocks away. Delivering to high-rise buildings means factoring in additional time for elevator rides and finding specific units within the building.

Pearl District: This neighborhood is a hotspot for restaurants and cafes, resulting in high demand for deliveries. Parking can be challenging due to limited curbside spots, especially during peak hours. Patience is key, as you may need to circle the blocks to find an available parking space.

Northwest Portland: Northwest Portland offers a mix of delivery scenarios. Delivering to residential homes often involves navigating narrow streets with limited curbside parking. Some apartments and older buildings may not have dedicated parking spaces, requiring couriers to park on nearby streets and walk to the delivery destination.

Northeast Portland: Northeast Portland is a diverse region encompassing a variety of neighborhoods. Expect a mixture of residential areas and bustling commercial corridors. While parking is generally more accessible compared to downtown, be mindful of one-way streets and occasional heavy traffic during rush hours. Familiarize yourself with popular delivery destinations, such as local eateries and shops.

Southeast Portland: Southeast Portland boasts a vibrant food scene and a blend of residential and commercial districts. Parking in residential areas is relatively easier compared to downtown, but some neighborhoods may have restricted parking zones. Keep in mind the presence of popular food carts, which attract high delivery demand.

Southwest Portland: Southwest Portland encompasses a range of communities, including residential areas, universities, and medical facilities. Universities like Portland State University may have limited curbside parking, and navigating crowded campus areas can be time-consuming. Be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak hours.

North Portland: The area can be busy with student orders and deliveries to campus buildings at University of Portland. Be prepared for limited curbside parking options and consider alternative parking spots within a reasonable walking distance.

East Portland: East Portland is an area featuring residential neighborhoods and industrial zones. Residential areas generally offer ample street parking, but be prepared for longer walks to front doors, especially in larger complexes.

What are some useful apps for courier gig work?

Mileage Tracking Apps:

MileIQ: Automatically tracks and logs your business-related mileage for accurate tax deductions.

Everlance: Helps you easily track and categorize your mileage, expenses, and receipts for tax purposes.

QuickBooks Self-Employed (QBSE): Tracks your mileage, categorizes expenses, and estimates quarterly taxes for simplified self-employment accounting.

Demand Insights and Analytics Apps:

Gridwise: Provides drivers with real-time insights, earnings analytics, and airport data to optimize their rideshare and delivery gigs.

SherpaShare: Offers drivers demand trends, local market insights, and earnings analytics to make informed decisions and maximize their earnings.

Next Steps

1. Scroll back up to the list of gigs on this page and sign up today!

2. Need more ideas for side hustles in Portland? Check out our giant list of side hustles.