How to choose
January 20, 2025
Many people are interested in working on delivery platforms as a convenient way and source of income. Some delivery companies, such as Spark and DoorDash, offer great working conditions. But which one is a better choice, Spark vs. Doordash?
There are a few things you should take into account while choosing between them. This includes the possible amount of earnings, your place of residence, and the proposed work schedule.
Spark is a Walmart delivery service. The company delivers groceries and basic necessities, and its services are most in demand in rural areas and places that do not have widespread access to goods.
DoorDash – works through the DoorDash work app and is a food delivery service in urban environments. The delivery riders (Dashers) of this platform are connected to restaurants and shops. DashPass works for loyal customers, increasing the volume of orders.
Both of these companies have their advantages and disadvantages.
Payment to delivery riders is fixed. Long-distance mileage delivery is compensated. Tips are possible. Spark delivery riders earn on average between $15–$20 per hour, (especially during rush hours). Payments are made once a week by bank transfer. There is no possibility of instant withdrawal of funds.
The payment is basic, depending on the terms of delivery: distance, time, and demand. Tips must be indicated before the order is completed. There are Peak Pay incentives, during peak demand, and bonuses for completing multiple orders.
DoorDash delivery riders earn $10–$18 per hour, earnings are increased by tips and provided incentives during peak periods. Payments are made weekly, and instant withdrawals are available for a small commission.
It is possible to schedule work shifts, orders are available on demand. The highest demand is in the morning and afternoon hours, especially on weekends.
Delivery riders can schedule shifts or work on demand with the "Dash Now" feature. Stable demand at lunchtime, evening and late hours.
There is no intuitive interface for navigating through orders. You can't get a calculation of estimated earnings. App may fail from time to time, especially when updates are being made.
Easy to navigate, always updated with built-in communication with the client.
During major Walmart sales and, accordingly, with a large number of orders, the platform provides seasonal bonuses. Additional payments are provided for completing a certain number of orders.
The platform provides bonuses for the delivery of orders during peak hours. You may get extra payments for the delivery of large number of orders.
Delays at Walmart: Long waiting times for delivery riders to receive orders.
Large orders: There are problems with the delivery of bulk orders.
Slow support: There is no quick response from the platform to the delivery riders' questions and concerns.
Delays in restaurants: delivery riders spend time waiting for orders in restaurants due to the lengthy cooking process.
Traffic: Traffic jams on the roads, especially during rush hours.
Multiple orders: Difficulties managing multiple deliveries at the same time.
Higher-paying shipping compared to DoorDash, but there is less opportunity to build a flexible schedule; because of mandatory work shifts.
Also, workers need to wait long in Walmart stores.
Flexible schedule and freedom on an e-bike, high demand in urban areas, but low pay on small orders. Tips are not paid regularly and there is a dependence on bonuses.
Read also: How to store an electric bike
If you are beginner, our suggestion is DoorDash. It is definitely better to start working on a flexible schedule that is convenient for you, having a consistently large number of orders.
If you are a more experienced delivery driver and you don't have your own transportation, Spark can be your choice. However, it's also possible to work on both platforms at the same time as well.
Read Also: 8 ideas for a flexible side hustle
