DoorDash vs. Grubhub: The Ultimate Price Showdown – Which Delivery Giant Saves You Money?

In the epic battle of food delivery titans, the question on everyone’s hungry mind is: Is DoorDash cheaper than Grubhub? The answer, as with most things in life, is a resounding “it depends.” There’s no single winner across the board. Both DoorDash and Grubhub employ complex pricing algorithms that fluctuate based on factors like location, restaurant popularity, time of day, demand, and even your specific order. To truly determine which service is cheaper for you, you need to consider the breakdown of costs and understand the nuances of their pricing models.

Decoding the Cost: A Line-by-Line Breakdown

To decipher which service consistently offers better deals, let’s dissect the key cost components:

1. Menu Prices: The Restaurant’s Role

The base cost of your meal is the menu price, which is set by the restaurant itself. While both DoorDash and Grubhub often reflect the restaurant’s in-house pricing, you might occasionally find slight discrepancies. Some restaurants increase prices on these platforms to offset commission fees.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the menu price against the restaurant’s website or physical menu (if available) to identify any markups on either platform.

2. Delivery Fees: The Variable Villain

Delivery fees are the most visible and often the most frustrating cost component. These fees are dynamic and vary significantly depending on several factors:

• Distance: Longer distances generally translate to higher delivery fees.
• Demand: During peak hours (lunch, dinner, weekends), expect to pay more.
• Restaurant Popularity: High-demand restaurants might have elevated delivery fees.
• Platform Promotions: Both DoorDash and Grubhub frequently offer promotions that waive or reduce delivery fees.

DoorDash’s delivery fees can range from a few dollars to upwards of $7 or $8, especially during busy periods. They also offer DashPass, a subscription service that waives delivery fees on eligible orders over a certain amount ($12 in most markets).

Grubhub’s delivery fees are similarly variable, influenced by the same factors. They also have a subscription service, Grubhub+, which provides free delivery on orders over $12 from participating restaurants.

3. Service Fees: The Sneaky Supplement

Service fees are added on top of the delivery fee and are ostensibly used to cover the costs of operating the platform. These fees are typically a percentage of your order subtotal.

DoorDash’s service fees can range from 5% to 15% of your order, depending on the restaurant and the platform’s current promotional strategies.

Grubhub’s service fees are similar, typically ranging from 5% to 10%.

Be warned: Service fees can significantly inflate your final bill, so pay close attention!

4. Taxes: The Inevitable Expense

Sales tax is a non-negotiable cost levied on your entire order. The tax rate is determined by your location and applied uniformly across both platforms.

5. Tips: The Generosity Game

Tipping your delivery driver is customary and greatly appreciated. While not mandatory, a generous tip can incentivize faster and more reliable service. Most users leave a tip between 15-20% of the order subtotal. This is an area where you have complete control over costs.

6. Hidden Fees: The Fine Print Foe

Keep an eye out for hidden fees, such as small order fees, which apply if your order falls below a certain minimum amount. DoorDash and Grubhub might also implement surge pricing during periods of exceptionally high demand. Reading the fine print is critical!

The Verdict: A Side-by-Side Comparison

So, which service is cheaper overall? Here’s a simplified comparison:

• Base Menu Prices: Generally comparable, but always double-check for restaurant markups.
• Delivery Fees: Highly variable, dependent on location, time, and demand. Subscription services (DashPass and Grubhub+) can significantly reduce these fees.
• Service Fees: Similar percentage-based charges, impacting overall cost.
• Promotions & Discounts: Both platforms offer frequent promotions and discounts, which can sway the cost advantage.

Ultimately, the “cheapest” service varies depending on your specific circumstances. The best strategy is to compare prices on both DoorDash and Grubhub before placing your order. Don’t just assume one is always cheaper.

FAQs: Your Burning Delivery Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of food delivery and maximize your savings:

1. What is DashPass and is it worth it?

DashPass is DoorDash’s subscription service. It provides free delivery (plus reduced service fees) on eligible orders over $12 from participating restaurants. If you order frequently, DashPass can easily pay for itself. However, carefully evaluate your ordering habits to determine if the monthly fee is justified.

2. What is Grubhub+ and is it worth it?

Grubhub+ is Grubhub’s equivalent to DashPass. It offers free delivery (and perks like cashback) on eligible orders over $12 from participating restaurants. Like DashPass, its value depends on your order frequency.

3. How can I avoid delivery fees?

Subscription services (DashPass and Grubhub+) are the most reliable way to avoid delivery fees. Also, look for restaurants offering free delivery promotions or consider picking up your order yourself.

4. How can I save money on service fees?

Service fees are generally unavoidable. One way to minimize their impact is to place larger orders, as the percentage-based fee will be spread across a larger total. Some rewards credit cards also offer cashback or points on delivery service purchases.

5. Do DoorDash and Grubhub offer coupons?

Yes, both platforms offer coupons and promotional discounts. Check their websites or apps regularly for available deals. You can also find coupon codes online.

6. Are the same restaurants available on both platforms?

No, restaurant availability varies between DoorDash and Grubhub. Some restaurants partner exclusively with one platform, while others are available on both. Check both apps to see which restaurants are available in your area.

7. Does the time of day affect pricing?

Absolutely. Prices are typically higher during peak hours (lunch and dinner) due to increased demand. Ordering during off-peak hours can save you money.

8. Is it cheaper to order directly from the restaurant?

In many cases, ordering directly from the restaurant can be cheaper, especially if they offer their own delivery service or have lower menu prices.

9. How does distance affect delivery fees?

Longer distances generally result in higher delivery fees. Try to order from restaurants located closer to you to minimize this cost.

10. What is a “small order fee”?

A small order fee is charged when your order falls below a certain minimum amount, designed to compensate for the lower revenue generated. Try to meet the minimum order requirement to avoid this fee.

11. Are tips included in the delivery fee?

No, tips are not included in the delivery fee. Tipping your driver is a separate and essential practice.

12. Can I use rewards credit cards for food delivery?

Yes, many rewards credit cards offer bonus points or cashback on food delivery purchases. Check your credit card’s benefits to see if you can earn rewards on DoorDash and Grubhub orders.

By carefully considering these factors and taking advantage of available discounts and promotions, you can make informed decisions and ultimately save money on your next food delivery order. Happy eating!