Being a punctual delivery driver is crucial for providing excellent service and maintaining a good reputation. Door Dash knows this is a major problem with its service. To combat this, Door Dash recently updated their Service Provider Platform Access Policy with LATE PENALTIES. To summarize, if you are consistently arriving to the place of business or the customer’s home after the expected arrival time, you will be deactivated.
HOW IS DOOR DASH TRACKING THIS?
Door Dash is using Google Maps along with other data to determine your estimated arrival time. It takes into account traffic patterns for that time of day along with accidents. If you are more than 10 minutes late to the restaurant, or to the customers home, you will be penalized. There are exceptions as Door Dash knows that some restaurants will take longer than expected to prep the food. Door Dash did not share how many strikes you get before you are penalized, but they did definitely say you can be late more than once.
Purely based on speculation, I think Door Dash deactivate your account if you are late a certain number of times within a certain time period. For example, Door Dash will deactivate your account if you are late 5 times within 1 week. If you are late 10 times in a year, I think Door Dash will be okay with that. It could also be based on a percentage of late versus on time deliveries.
WHAT IS THE PENALTY?
Aside from possible deactivation, being late will not affect your ratings or your pay.
HOW TO AVOID LATENESS VIOLATIONS
- Plan Your Routes:
- Use navigation apps or GPS devices to plan the most efficient routes. Consider traffic patterns, road closures, and peak hours to optimize your delivery route. If you know you are going to be late due to weather or feeling tired, just skip the delivery.
- Familiarize Yourself with Locations:
- Get to know the delivery areas you frequently visit. Being familiar with streets, neighborhoods, and landmarks can help you navigate more efficiently. Consider keeping a high power spot light with you at all times so you can find those address numbers at night.
- Check Traffic Updates:
- Stay informed about real-time traffic conditions. Use navigation apps that provide live traffic updates and suggest alternative routes when needed.
- Maintain Your Vehicle:
- Regularly service and maintain your delivery vehicle to prevent breakdowns and delays. Check the tires, brakes, and other essential components to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition.
- Time Management:
- Allocate sufficient time for each delivery, considering factors like parking, unloading, and any potential delays. Avoid trying to work for two delivery apps at the same time. If you need to use the bathroom or walk your dog, pause your dash.
- Communication with Customers:
- Keep customers informed about the status of their delivery. If you anticipate a delay, communicate with the customer in advance to manage their expectations.
- Be Proactive:
- Anticipate potential challenges, such as difficult parking situations or crowded locations. Plan ahead and have contingency plans in place to address unexpected issues.
- Time of Day Considerations:
- Be mindful of delivery times and consider the nature of the delivery. For example, if delivering meals, ensure they arrive promptly to maintain their freshness. If its rush hour, consider routes with less traffic.
- Stay Organized:
- Keep your delivery items organized in your vehicle. This can help you locate items quickly and avoid wasting time searching for the right food item or package.
Remember, being proactive and planning ahead are key to avoiding delays. Regularly assess and refine your delivery strategies based on your experiences to continually improve your efficiency.
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