Is Postmates Cheaper Than DoorDash? The Ultimate Cost Showdown

The burning question on every food-delivery aficionado’s mind: Is Postmates cheaper than DoorDash? The short answer is…it’s complicated. There’s no definitive “yes” or “no.” The cost-effectiveness of each platform depends heavily on various factors, including location, time of day, demand, restaurant choices, and even the specific promotions available at any given moment. Both platforms jockey for position in the increasingly competitive food delivery arena, and sometimes one will offer better deals than the other. Read on for a deep dive into the nuances of delivery fees, service charges, and hidden costs to determine which app will save you the most dough.

Decoding Delivery Costs: A Comprehensive Comparison

Navigating the labyrinth of delivery app pricing requires a keen eye. While both Postmates and DoorDash aim to present themselves as affordable options, the devil is truly in the details. Let’s break down the core components of the overall price you’ll pay:

Delivery Fees: The First Hurdle

Delivery fees are perhaps the most immediately noticeable cost. Both Postmates and DoorDash charge fees that fluctuate based on distance, time of day, and demand. During peak hours (lunch and dinner rushes), expect surge pricing, meaning higher delivery fees. The algorithm gods are always at play.

• Postmates: Historically, Postmates has been known for its slightly more unpredictable delivery fees. You might find surprisingly low fees during off-peak hours, but experience significant jumps during busy times. The app also factors in the availability of Postmates couriers in your area. The less couriers available, the higher the cost may be.
• DoorDash: DoorDash’s delivery fees are generally more consistent than Postmates, but are often a bit higher on average. However, DoorDash frequently offers promotional discounts, making it essential to check for deals before placing your order. They also leverage partnerships with restaurants to offer lower or even free delivery on specific items or from certain locations. DashPass, their subscription service, eliminates delivery fees on eligible orders, often making it a compelling value proposition for frequent users.

Service Fees: The Hidden Charges

Ah, the dreaded service fee. This charge, applied by both Postmates and DoorDash, is ostensibly for platform maintenance and operational costs. It’s typically a percentage of your subtotal, and it can significantly inflate the final price.

• Postmates: Postmates typically charges a service fee that ranges from 10% to 20% of your order subtotal. Keep in mind that this fee is applied before tax and tip, adding another layer of cost.
• DoorDash: DoorDash mirrors Postmates’ approach, with service fees also fluctuating between 10% and 20% of the subtotal. However, DoorDash is often more transparent upfront about the exact percentage, making it slightly easier to budget.

Small Order Fees: Don’t Underestimate the Minimum

Ordering a small snack or a single item? Be warned! Both Postmates and DoorDash often impose “small order fees” to incentivize larger purchases.

• Postmates: If your order falls below a certain minimum (usually around $10 to $15), Postmates will tack on an extra charge. The exact amount varies but can range from $1 to $3.
• DoorDash: DoorDash operates similarly, applying a small order fee to orders that don’t meet their minimum threshold. They might also offer incentives to increase your order to avoid the fee, such as adding a specific item or reaching a specific dollar amount.

Tipping: The Ethical Imperative

Don’t forget to factor in the tip for your Postmates or DoorDash delivery driver. Tipping is not just a courtesy; it’s a crucial part of their income. While you can technically skip the tip, doing so is generally frowned upon, as it significantly impacts the driver’s earnings.

• Postmates: Postmates allows you to tip before or after delivery. However, tipping after can be beneficial, as you can adjust the amount based on the quality of service.
• DoorDash: DoorDash also offers both pre- and post-delivery tipping. The app typically suggests several tip amounts based on your order total.

Membership Subscriptions: The Long-Term Game

Both Postmates and DoorDash offer subscription programs that can drastically reduce costs for frequent users.

• Postmates Unlimited: Postmates Unlimited (now part of Uber One) provides free delivery on orders over $15 (with some restrictions) and offers exclusive discounts. If you frequently order from Postmates, this subscription can pay for itself quickly.
• DoorDash DashPass: DashPass provides free delivery on eligible orders (usually above $12) and reduces service fees at participating restaurants. Similar to Postmates Unlimited, DashPass can be a worthwhile investment for regular DoorDash users.

Finding Deals and Discounts: Become a Savvy Shopper

To truly determine whether Postmates or DoorDash is cheaper for you, you need to become a master of deal hunting. Both platforms regularly offer promotions, discounts, and special offers.

• Promo Codes: Search online for active promo codes before placing your order. These codes can provide significant discounts, especially for new users.
• Restaurant-Specific Deals: Keep an eye out for restaurant-specific promotions, such as free delivery, discounted menu items, or percentage-off deals.
• Loyalty Programs: Some restaurants offer loyalty programs that integrate with Postmates or DoorDash, allowing you to earn points and redeem rewards.

Conclusion: The Verdict

Ultimately, there’s no clear winner in the Postmates vs. DoorDash cost battle. The cheaper option depends on the specific circumstances of each order. By carefully considering delivery fees, service charges, small order fees, subscription benefits, and available promotions, you can make an informed decision and maximize your savings. The best strategy is to compare prices on both platforms before placing your order to see which one offers the best deal at that moment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information for readers:

1. Do both Postmates and DoorDash charge surge pricing?

Yes, both Postmates and DoorDash utilize surge pricing during peak demand periods, such as lunch and dinner rushes, and during inclement weather. This means delivery fees will increase to incentivize drivers to fulfill more orders.

2. What is a ‘small order fee’ and when does it apply?

A small order fee is an additional charge applied to orders that don’t meet a minimum subtotal threshold. It encourages customers to order more items and make the delivery worthwhile for both the platform and the driver. The threshold and fee amount vary.

3. How do DashPass and Postmates Unlimited (Uber One) impact overall cost?

DashPass and Postmates Unlimited (Uber One) can significantly reduce overall costs for frequent users by waiving delivery fees and sometimes lowering service fees on eligible orders. They work as subscription services.

4. Can I tip my delivery driver in cash instead of through the app?

Yes, both Postmates and DoorDash drivers can accept cash tips. However, tipping through the app ensures that the tip is accurately recorded and attributed to the driver.

5. Are service fees the same as delivery fees?

No. Service fees are charges that go to the platform for operational costs, while delivery fees are intended to compensate the driver for their time and effort.

6. How can I find promo codes for Postmates and DoorDash?

You can find promo codes for Postmates and DoorDash by searching online, checking social media, signing up for email newsletters, and looking for promotions within the apps themselves.

7. Do Postmates and DoorDash offer discounts for first-time users?

Yes, both Postmates and DoorDash typically offer discounts for first-time users. These discounts are often substantial and can significantly reduce the cost of your first order.

8. Which platform offers a wider selection of restaurants?

The selection of restaurants varies by location, but generally, DoorDash tends to have a broader selection than Postmates in many markets. However, Postmates often features local gems and smaller establishments.

9. Can I schedule deliveries in advance on both Postmates and DoorDash?

Yes, both Postmates and DoorDash allow you to schedule deliveries in advance, providing greater convenience and control over when you receive your food.

10. Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?

Beyond the obvious fees, watch out for menu markups. Some restaurants inflate prices on Postmates and DoorDash compared to their in-house menus. Also, carefully check your order confirmation to ensure accuracy and avoid unexpected charges.

11. What happens if my order is incorrect or missing items?

Both Postmates and DoorDash offer customer support to address incorrect or missing items. You can typically request a refund or credit for the missing items through the app.

12. Is it better to order directly from a restaurant’s website or through Postmates/DoorDash?

Ordering directly from a restaurant’s website can sometimes be cheaper, as you avoid platform fees. However, it may not always be the most convenient option, and it depends on whether the restaurant offers its own delivery service or partners with a third-party service like Postmates or DoorDash. Weigh the cost savings against the convenience and delivery options.