When DoorDash introduced its “Earn by Time” mode, promising hourly pay instead of per-delivery rates, it seemed like a step toward stability for gig workers like me. However, after giving it a try, I found that this model often falls short of expectations, leaving drivers like me questioning its true value.
The Allure of Hourly Pay
The concept behind “Earn by Time” is straightforward: get paid a guaranteed hourly rate while completing deliveries. In theory, this should offer more predictability and reduce the pressure to accept every order. However, the reality is more complex.
The Reality of Low Hourly Rates
In my area, the hourly rate typically ranges from $11 to $13 during active hours, which are defined as the time spent actively completing a delivery—starting when you accept an order and ending when it’s completed. This excludes waiting times between orders. For comparison, my average earnings per hour in 2024 were around $25.20 when working on a per-delivery basis. The guaranteed hourly rate under “Earn by Time” falls significantly short of this, making it less appealing for those seeking to maximize their earnings.
Challenges with Multi-Apping
One of the key strategies for maximizing earnings as a delivery driver is multi-apping—using multiple platforms simultaneously to increase the number of available orders. However, “Earn by Time” complicates this approach. To maintain eligibility for hourly pay, drivers are required to accept every order offered. Declining more than one order per hour can result in being switched back to the per-delivery model, disrupting the flexibility that multi-apping provides.
Increased Wear and Tear on Your Vehicle
Another consideration is the impact on your vehicle. Longer delivery times, which are more common under the hourly model, lead to increased mileage and wear and tear. Even if the deliveries themselves are shorter, the time spent on the clock without corresponding pay for idle periods adds up, contributing to vehicle depreciation and maintenance costs.
The Tip Dilemma
Tips are a significant part of a delivery driver’s income. However, under the “Earn by Time” model, tips are often minimal or nonexistent. Orders routed through this system tend to have lower or no tips, as customers may assume that the guaranteed hourly rate compensates the driver adequately. In my experience, the best tip I received under this model was $1, with most orders offering no additional tip.
Market Variability
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of “Earn by Time” can vary by market. Some drivers in different regions report earning more under this model, especially during peak hours or when promotional pay is active. However, in my area, the hourly rate does not align with the income I can generate through per-delivery work, leading me to opt out of the hourly pay system.
Final Thoughts
While “Earn by Time” offers a guaranteed hourly wage, it often falls short in delivering the earning potential and flexibility that many drivers seek. The low hourly rates, restrictions on order declines, increased vehicle wear, and minimal tips make it a less attractive option for those aiming to maximize their income. For drivers in markets where per-delivery earnings are higher, sticking to the traditional model may be more beneficial.
If you’re considering “Earn by Time,” it’s advisable to test it in your area to determine if it aligns with your financial goals and driving habits. However, based on my experience, I would caution against relying on this model as a primary source of income.
