How Does Earn by Time Work on DoorDash? The Dasher’s Definitive Guide

So, you’re curious about Earn by Time on DoorDash, eh? Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the heart of it. Simply put, Earn by Time allows DoorDash drivers (Dashers) to get paid an hourly rate for the time they are actively engaged in deliveries, from accepting an order to dropping it off, rather than solely relying on per-delivery pay. This option aims to provide a more predictable income stream and compensate Dashers for the time spent waiting at restaurants and navigating traffic. Now, let’s dive into the nuances.

Understanding the Earn by Time Model

The core principle is simple: get paid for your time. But the devil, as they say, is in the details.

Hourly Rate Dynamics

The hourly rate offered through Earn by Time isn’t a fixed number; it varies based on location and the specific time of day. DoorDash factors in demand, the number of available Dashers, and typical traffic conditions to set the rate. Expect higher hourly rates during peak hours and in areas with high order volume. The beauty here is visibility: you see the exact hourly rate before you choose to dash.

The “Active Time” Calculation

Active time is the crucial metric determining your earnings. It starts the moment you accept a delivery request and continues until you complete the delivery by marking it as delivered in the app. This includes travel time to the restaurant, waiting time at the restaurant, and travel time to the customer. This distinction is vital: you’re not paid the hourly rate for the time spent waiting for orders to come in while the app is running. You only get paid for “active time” while on an order.

Acceptance Rate Requirements

Here’s a critical point: When dashing with Earn by Time, DoorDash usually mandates a higher acceptance rate than when dashing by offer. This requirement helps ensure timely order fulfillment and maintains service quality. Ignoring too many delivery requests may result in losing access to the Earn by Time option. This difference is because with per-offer, you only get paid if you accept and complete an offer. But with Earn by Time, you could be getting paid the full hourly wage with a guaranteed payout for doing the same thing. So, you’ll need to maintain a high acceptance rate to continue getting paid, no matter what.

Tipping and Supplements

While you’re earning an hourly rate, tips are still added on top of that. You receive 100% of customer tips, which can significantly boost your overall earnings. Some deliveries may also include supplemental pay for factors like long distances or difficult delivery conditions. You’re essentially getting paid for your time and for the quality of service you provide through tips.

Comparing Earn by Time to Earn Per Offer

The big question: which is better? It depends entirely on your market, time of day, and personal preferences. Earn by Time can be advantageous during slower periods or in areas with lots of stop-and-go traffic. Earn per offer might be more lucrative during peak times in areas where you can quickly complete deliveries with generous tips. Analyzing your past earnings data and experimenting with both options is the best way to determine what works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I switch to Earn by Time on DoorDash?

To switch to Earn by Time, open the DoorDash Dasher app and look for the option to “Choose how you earn” or a similar prompt before starting your dash. If the Earn by Time option is available in your area, you can select it there. Keep in mind that the availability of this option can vary.

2. Can I switch back to “Earn Per Offer” mid-dash?

In most cases, you cannot switch between Earn by Time and Earn Per Offer during an active dash. You’ll need to end your current dash and start a new one with your preferred earning method selected.

3. Does Earn by Time affect my Dasher rating?

No, using Earn by Time does not directly affect your Dasher rating. Your rating is primarily based on customer feedback and order completion rate. However, declining too many orders when using Earn by Time can impact your acceptance rate, which, as mentioned earlier, needs to be high to maintain access to Earn by Time.

4. What happens if a restaurant makes me wait a very long time?

You’re still paid the hourly rate for the time you spend waiting at the restaurant. This is one of the main advantages of Earn by Time – you’re compensated for those frustrating waits.

5. What if the customer cancels the order after I’ve accepted it?

DoorDash’s cancellation policy applies. You’ll likely receive some compensation for your time and effort, even if the order is canceled after you’ve accepted it. The exact amount can vary.

6. Does Earn by Time affect my ability to get priority access to orders?

Whether Earn by Time affects priority access to orders is something that DoorDash changes quite a bit, depending on area. Keep your eye out for the most recent announcements on the official DoorDash website.

7. How can I maximize my earnings with Earn by Time?

Maximize earnings by dashing during peak hours, accepting orders promptly (to maintain your acceptance rate), and providing excellent customer service to increase your chances of receiving tips. Familiarize yourself with the high-demand areas in your city.

8. Are there any downsides to using Earn by Time?

The main downside is the higher acceptance rate requirement. You need to be willing to accept most orders to stay on Earn by Time. Also, if you’re in a market where you can complete deliveries very quickly and get large tips, Earn Per Offer might still be more profitable.

9. Can I still see the estimated delivery distance and restaurant details before accepting an order with Earn by Time?

Yes, you can still see the estimated delivery distance and restaurant details before accepting an order with Earn by Time. This information helps you make informed decisions about which orders to accept.

10. Does Earn by Time affect my ability to dash anytime?

No, Earn by Time does not affect your ability to dash anytime. However, keep in mind that dashing anytime is subject to availability in your market.

11. How is Earn by Time different from guaranteed earnings promotions?

Earn by Time provides an hourly rate for active delivery time. Guaranteed earnings promotions offer a guaranteed minimum amount for completing a certain number of deliveries within a specific timeframe. They are two different incentives.

12. Where can I find more information and support about Earn by Time?

Consult the DoorDash Dasher app’s help section or visit the DoorDash website’s support pages. You can also reach out to DoorDash support directly through the app for personalized assistance.