Gridwise blog

The customer

In 2010, two entrepreneurs launched an electric vehicle infrastructure company, providing charging stations for EVs (electric vehicles). They placed these EV chargers in crucial traffic areas in large cities. There were competitors in this business, but they all followed the same basic model based on an app that

1. allowed EV owners to locate the nearest EV charger through their mobile devices 
2. allowed EV owners to activate the EV charger through the app 
3. allowed EV owners to pay for EV charger usage through the app using a credit or debit card 

Before their partnership with Gridwise Analytics, the client used third-party sources to guide their decisions in the EV charger locations. However, they still needed additional data to more accurately validate and further enhance their findings.

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Background

Clean Technica reports that in 2022, approximately 5.7% of US car sales were fully electric models. These numbers are still in the single digits, but the increases are dramatic: up from 3.2% in 2021, 1.7% in 2020, and 1.4% in 2019 (these numbers reflect only electric car sales, as opposed to other studies that combine the sales of electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and sometimes conventional hybrids). Adoption rates of 5% to 10% have been historically significant, indicating that a product or service is likely to be adopted by mainstream users. 

More significant is the number of consumers planning to purchase an EV the next time they buy a car. The Ernst & Young Mobility Consumer Index reports that 52% of respondents intending to buy a car in 2022 wanted to purchase an EV. This is the first time the number has exceeded 50%, representing an increase of 22 percentage points in just two years.

Several factors affect the actual cost of an EV vs. the cost of a conventional gas-powered car. When comparing the cost of electricity vs. fuel, EV owners spend only a third to a half of what the owner of a comparable fuel-powered car spends in a year. 

Most EV owners charge their car at home using a conventional 110-volt outlet and a cord supplied with the vehicle, but this is the slowest type of charge, known as Level 1 charging, aka trickle charge. This type of charging provides about three miles for every hour charged. 

Level 2 charging, on the other hand, provides about 35 miles of range per hour but requires a 220-volt outlet, which is unavailable in every home. 

Level 3 allows an EV owner to charge as much as 80% battery capacity in 20 minutes to an hour using direct current, not typically found in homes.

The alternative for owners is to find an EV charger on the road where they can charge their car. However, one of the most significant blockades to EV growth is the availability of EV chargers. There are stories of EV owners not being able to find an available charger, one that other drivers are not using, or finding one only to discover that it is inoperable or damaged by accident or vandalism. 

The challenge

The client maintains more than 2,000 EV chargers in the US, in 23 states. These chargers are compatible with all major plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles marketed in the US. Optimizing EV network expansion must be deliberate as EV chargers require significant up-front costs, and the payback could be faster. Reaching profitability requires placing the EV charger locations where they receive the highest level of use and pay for themselves quickly. Providers must find suitable locations, negotiate with property owners (typically retail centers, malls, and office buildings), and install the chargers. 

The client used transportation analytics and data from Gridwise to learn where rideshare and food delivery trips start and end. The information gave insight into how many people in the broader driving population are moving in an area and where they are moving to, thereby revealing additional key EV charger locations. 

Determining the best locations for EV chargers is even more critical now because the federal government has pledged $7.5 billion to develop an EV charging infrastructure. When validating EV charger locations for grant applications they must include mobility data analytics to justify their locations and expected usage.  This requires quality information and granular data:

“When applying for grants and incentives, it is necessary to show that money is deployed to its best use,” said a former industry CFO and Gridwise Analytics user, “and also that the EV chargers will have the greatest number of visitations to reduce the payback period.”

The client had already procured data to pinpoint optimal EV charger locations. Still, they were critically aware that the numbers they submitted for grants would be subject to verification and audits. They were seeking more granular data to confirm their decisions. 

The client chose Gridwise Analytics for several reasons:

• Uber and Lyft data analysis and data from the food delivery drivers mirror consumer traffic patterns, providing an excellent way to pinpoint ideal EV charging station site selection.  
• Mobility data analytics from Gridwise represent near-real-time information and can be refreshed quickly in light of new information, making it easier to predict future demand. 

A former industry CFO and Gridwise Analytics user added, “Gridwise Analytics gave us the micro-level data needed to make specific location-based decisions, and that is important as EV chargers are ‘rooted’ in the ground. Once installed, moving EV chargers is a difficult and costly operation.” 

The client was awed by the Gridwise vehicle trip data regarding pickup and drop-off locations and the uniqueness of data from various parts of the country. The client also found the data was very clean and required no editing, allowing them to incorporate it into their current models without having to manipulate it. In one instance, the client detected a significant number of inaccuracies in their own data regarding one city. But when they imported Gridwise vehicle trip data applications they quickly sorted out the clutter, so much so that the result allowed them to close a seven-figure deal. 

Partner with Gridwise

By serving drivers, Gridwise gathers vehicle trip data across all major gig service platforms so that, in the aggregate, both Gridwise and drivers can see transportation analytics that help them work more efficiently and profitably.

Gridwise vehicle trip data also offers unique insights for companies serving the broader transportation infrastructure, showing how people and goods move from one location to another. The granular data shows where trips originate, where they end, and the major travel corridors. Data researchers can sort this information to reflect daily, monthly, and annual patterns. Gridwise data is presented in a clean format, with little or no need to manipulate it to fit into the model you might be using.  

For a demonstration of how Gridwise Analytics vehicle trip data can sharpen your transportation analytics, contact us below. 

Are you at the point where you can’t deal with one more nasty passenger or stingy delivery customer? You don’t have to rub a lamp with a genie in it so your wish to avoid them can come true. Thanks to a different kind of delivery company, you can get an abundance of flexibility, a break from the people problems you encounter with food delivery and rideshare, and ways to make plenty of money, too. 

Point Pickup is a same-day delivery service that serves retail stores of all kinds. Retail locations, such as Walmart, prepare the packages completely, and then you pick them up for delivery.

If that sounds too good to be true, you need to read more. In this post, we’ll tell you what Point Pickup is all about and how you can get in on a deal that will take away your woes!

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What is Point Pickup?

Point Pickup is a same day service that delivers packages from retail stores and other locations to customers. The lion’s share of orders come from Walmart, which includes groceries. So, like Instacart or Shipt, you may need to do shopping from time to time. Point Pickup offers various choices, so you can tailor deliveries to fit your qualifications and preferences.

Headquartered in Connecticut, Point Pickup has extensive operations in New York and New England. As of this writing it has a presence in all 50 states. You’ll need to check the app to see if delivering for Point Pickup is a possibility where you live.

Point Pickup offers opportunities to all kinds of drivers. You might be looking for a part-time delivery gig, be a full-time independent contractor, or a licensed trucker. You can even use a bike, scooter, or motorcycle to deliver in many locations. In every case, Point Pickup will help you find ways to make money delivering goods with far less hassle.

How does driving for Point Pickup compare to rideshare and food delivery?

Flexibility is the standout feature that makes Point Pickup very different from rideshare gigs and other delivery apps. You choose the deliveries you want to make. No need to drive around hoping to get a ping. You don’t have to set a schedule block, either. Simply check with the app to see what deliveries are available, and select your jobs in advance. You can deliver one order or several, based on your schedule and the demand for your delivery services. 

Here’s what that looks like in the Point Pickup app.

Flexibility is only one of the advantages Point Pickup offers. Here are some more:

• customizable driver profile for your licenses (HIPAA, TSA, CDL) and vehicles
• ability to accept multiple, pre-routed, and recurring orders
• option to set up your own driving times and driving zones
• benefit from favorite driver and rating qualifiers based on your performance
• easily interface Point Pickup with GPS apps
• transaction history recorded
• auto pay/direct deposit on a daily basis

You can also elect to take batch orders. The app shows you how:

Except for grocery shopping and delivery, you won't need to interact with passengers or wait for a backed-up kitchen to prepare and package your delivery. The packages you deliver will be there waiting for you, all ready to go.

How does Point Pickup work?

Point Pickup’s app will take the information you give it, (e.g., any licenses you hold, vehicle type(s), available hours, etc.) and match you with potential delivery jobs. You decide whether to accept each assignment, giving you freedom from specific hours or obligations to take every delivery the app offers. Point Pickup pays drivers for each package they deliver.

You get to set your preferences, and the app only sends you deliveries that fit within the parameters you specify. Here’s what the package preferences screen looks like:

As you can see, you can customize your options to fit your capabilities. If you opt to deliver takeout food, customers who order takeout food should inform the restaurant about your scheduled pickup time.

In addition to licenses, vehicles, and package specifications, you can filter delivery requests by your schedule. Enter your available times, and you will choose from only those orders that come up during those periods.

Customers specify the location of the pickup and the dropoff. Point Pickup charges customers directly, and they do have the opportunity to tip you in the app. Drivers retain 100% of any tips they receive.

When available orders appear, the app shows you the distance you'll need to drive and the payment for each pickup and delivery. You can decide whether to accept an order. Once you accept a delivery, you are expected to fulfill your part of the agreement. Payments go directly into the bank account you specified at signup, and you can withdraw your earnings daily. Point Pickup pays its drivers through Stripe.

What are Point Pickup’s driver requirements?

Point Pickup doesn't require drivers to have a special vehicle or a commercial license, making it easy to qualify. However, you should consider adding an endorsement to your private auto insurance policy to cover your vehicle during commercial use.

Here is all you need in order to become a Point Pickup driver:

• at least 18 years of age
• a valid driver’s license
• a Social Security number
• the ability to pass a background check

You can learn even more about what it takes to be a Point Pickup delivery driver on the Point Pickup website.

How do you apply to be a Point Pickup driver?

Point Pickup makes signing up to drive for them easy. Your first step is to download the Point Pickup driver app. From there, simply follow the prompts as they pop up on your screen. Here are a few samples that show what the process looks like:

Like every other app, you’ll give them the information they request, and then wait a few days for the background check to come through. Once it does, you’ll be all set to enjoy the flexibility of earning extra cash with Point Pickup!

What if your background check doesn’t clear? This does happen from time to time with all driving and delivery apps. You can always appeal to the background check company, as they do make mistakes. However, if the reason for your failure to pass the check is valid, you might need to look for work elsewhere.

As long as you know you can pass a background check without a problem, you’re going to find the signup process for Point Pickup to be a breeze. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to see some money blowing your way.

What does Point Pickup driver pay look like? 

While some sources claim Point Pickup pay isn’t all that great, Gridwise data paint a much brighter picture. Our anonymized information from real drivers tells us that the average hourly pay for Point Pickup drivers is $24.00! That’s very impressive. The average monthly pay, however, is just $236, which speaks to the part-time nature of Point Pickup work. Point Pickup driver pay is broken down as follows: 45% base pay, 23% tips, and 32% bonuses.

How does Point Pickup pay work? Point Picku drivers are paid per package for the deliveries they make. The amount paid per package depends on its size and the distance to delivery. Drivers can also keep 100% of any tips they may receive. There’s a referral program that’ll score you $20.00 for each person you refer, provided they meet Point Pickup’s requirements.

Most reviewers and drivers will tell you that while Point Pickup is a less stressful gig than others, it’s more useful as a side hustle than as a mainstay. You can always do some Point Pickup work when you just need a break or want to supplement income you make from other sources. You can also make it part of your multi-apping repertoire. If that’s exactly you’re looking for, Point Pickup could be a great gig for you. 

A must have for Point Pickup drivers: Gridwise

Whether you decide to drive for Point Pickup, use it as part of your multi-apping strategy, or choose to stay with the company you’ve been with for years, you’ll make more money with far less frustration when you ride with Gridwise! Track earnings and mileage for free while keeping all your info in one place for tax time.

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See in this article how much using Gridwise can simplify your tax preparation process.

Gridwise supports rideshare and delivery drivers by providing everything from driving information to driver discounts and benefits for independent contractors. When you drive for an app such as Point Pickup, you’ll appreciate the extra help Gridwise gives you.

Gridwise features Point Pickup drivers will love

Informative features can even help you earn bigger tips and generally maximize the amount of money you make with Point Pickup. Here are some of the benefits Gridwise gives you:

• mileage tracking: Gridwise seamlessly tracks all the miles you drive while you’re on your gig, not just the ones from the pickup point to the delivery destination.
• earnings tracking: You can gauge your hourly earnings by letting Gridwise automatically record what you’re being paid by the Point Pickup app and any others you use.
• strategic insight: When there’s not a lot of business out there, it pays to know when and where to find what is available. When to Drive and Where to Drive from Gridwise give you the ability to see what other drivers are making, and which locations and times are “hottest” for your favorite driving apps.
• useful information: Gridwise offers you up-to-the-minute reports on events in your area and other factors that might influence traffic. There are also weather alerts that keep you in the know about what it’s going to be like out on the road.
• driver-oriented support: As an independent contractor, you need to find ways to get affordable insurance, roadside assistance, healthcare, tax help, discounts on auto repairs, and more. Gridwise has a suite of products designed for drivers and their many needs. Check them out on the Gridwise Benefits webpage.

When you have an effective driving strategy, plus inexpensive ways to take care of your “real life” needs, you make more money.

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How can you get to be a Lime scooter charger/juicer? What does it take, and how much can you make?

Lime scooter charger/juicers service dockless electric scooters that are shared by riders in cities all over the world. We’ve all seen them around, but you might be amazed when you find out just how popular e-scooters have become. 

In this post, we’ll take a look at what Lime, the e-scooter company, is all about, and specifically what it’s like working as a Lime charger/juicer.

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What is the growth of scooter use?

According to an August 2020 article in Bloomberg CityLab, the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) reported that scooter ridership increased from 38.5 million in 2018 to 88.5 million in 2019 – a growth rate of 130%. 

Scooters have already surpassed bikes when it comes to their share of the micromobility market. This graph, from Appinventiv shows the growth of the e-scooter market. They also state that by the year 2023, this percentage will touch the milestone of 8%. The below display Bird and Lime scooter weekly app installs.

Graph credit: appinventiv.com, November 23, 2023

What is Lime? 

Lime is one of the hottest scooter startups transforming the micromobility industry. Just like its competitor, Bird, Lime provides motorized scooters that users can rent via a smartphone app. 

The process is simple: When customers want a ride, they access the Lime app, find out the location of the nearest scooter, and electronically unlock the scooter. Then, they’re off … at approximately 15 miles per hour! The scooters cost $1 to unlock and then 15 cents per minute after the initial charge. 

Going only 15 miles per hour isn’t much of a problem in most big cities. As traffic comes back to its pre-COVID volumes, more and more cities are opting to give Lime’s eco-friendly, convenient, and socially distanced means of transport a try. Here’s a list of U.S. and international cities where Lime operates. 

New York recently ended its ban on e-scooters and is instituting a trial with Lime. Scooters will begin rolling around the Bronx sometime during summer 2021. 

Now that you know something about Lime, let’s look at the job of being a juicer.

How does “juicing” work?

Because Lime scooters are electric, they need to be charged regularly – and that’s where you come in. Lime employs contract scooter chargers, whom they call “juicers”, to pick scooters up off the streets and charge them every night after 9:00 p.m.

As a Lime juicer, you will gain access to their Lime juicer map where you can view scooters in real time that are ready to charge, as well as how much Lime will pay you for each charge. Since the scooters are always picked up at night and charged at your home, you can essentially make money while you sleep. 

Keep in mind that Lime recruits heavily in cities where it needs contractors to charge scooters. You’ll want to apply as early as possible when Lime comes to your city. That way, you have a stronger chance of getting approved, and you’ll earn more money because there will be less competition. 

How to harvest and serve for Lime

There are two steps to charging scooters for Lime: harvesting and serving. “Harvesting” means picking up a scooter from the street that is ready to be charged, juicing it up, and then dropping the scooter off in a designated spot by the time given in the app.

The harvest process looks like this: Find the scooter you’re looking for, scan its QR code, place it in your vehicle, and either take it back to your charging station or continue collecting more scooters. 

“Serving” refers to the final step you need to take before completing the charging task. Lime has a list of standards they call “BLT,” which stands for battery, location, and timing. These standards are described as:

• Battery: Scooters must have at least a 95% battery when served in order to receive the full payout.
• Location: In the app, you will be able to see where scooters are, reserve them, and navigate to the locations of scooters in need of some juice.
• Timing: The app specifies the time by which each scooter needs to be served. Again, you’ll find out from the app by what time each scooter you’ve picked up needs to be dropped off. 

Once all the scooters you’ve picked up at night are dropped off (the next morning) at their specified location, Lime will credit your account for your juicing job.

How much do Lime juicers make?

When you check the app for scooters that need to be harvested, you’ll be able to see how much each scooter will earn you. Lime juicers report an average of about $8 per scooter, with $5 to $12 per scooter as a reasonable range. 

You can probably expect to make around $20 to $30 per hour. For comparison, check out our insights into rideshare driver earnings as well as average earnings for food delivery drivers. You’ll see that the hourly rate for juicing compares favorably.

The only drawback is, your hours as a juicer are limited. You need to do your work at the end of the day and in the morning. You can still pull in a nice chunk of change, though, and your effort will be minimal if you develop a plan and stick to it.

Here’s an inside tip from masters of the juicing game: To make the most money for the least amount of effort, collect multiple scooters that are relatively close together, rather than going out of your way for more profitable scooters that might be harder to retrieve. 

Try Gridwise as the perfect gigwork companion:

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What are the requirements to be a Lime charger?

Lime has a few requirements that are pretty cut and dried, and make sense for the job. You must:

•      Be 18 years old
•      Have a vehicle (preferably on the large side)
•      Have a valid driver’s license
•      Have a helmet for scooter driving
•      Have a smartphone to use the app

You can usually be approved to juice for Lime rather quickly. There’s no background check, so you won’t have to wait for that to come through before you can get to work.

How to sign up for Lime

If you meet Lime’s requirements, you can sign up to be a juicer online. Depending on the competition in your city amongst other chargers, you might have to wait for a while for a response back. 

Then, you’ll be asked to complete a “How to Juice” course and sign a W-9 form and a standard agreement. Once your application is approved and you’ve completed those tasks, you will receive instructions on how to purchase your chargers. Then, you can order up to four of the chargers (listed at $19 each) from Lime’s online store. Once you receive your chargers, you’re all set to begin juicing.

Note: you can also start out by simply harvesting scooters for juicing. While this won’t pay as much, it’s a good way to get started, see if you like the gig, and then make the investment in chargers if you’re interested in continuing.

How do I contact Lime support?

Lime provides a Help Center for juicers as well as the ability to submit a request via the website. In the Help Center, you can view the pay portal, see your payout summary, and learn more information about harvesting, serving, retrieving, and more. 

10 Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings as a Lime Juicer

1. Plan efficient routes: Map out a strategic path to collect multiple scooters in close proximity, minimizing travel time and fuel costs.
2. Use the Reserve feature: Take advantage of Lime's Reserve feature to claim scooters in advance, reducing competition and wasted trips.
3. Invest in quality charging equipment: Purchase reliable chargers to ensure faster and more efficient charging cycles.
4. Optimize your charging schedule: Charge scooters overnight to make the most of your time and electricity usage.
5. Focus on high-density areas: Target locations with a higher concentration of scooters to maximize your collection efficiency.
6. Stay informed about local events: Be aware of concerts, festivals, or other gatherings that might lead to increased scooter usage and potential charging opportunities.
7. Maintain a good relationship with Lime: Follow their guidelines closely to avoid penalties and maintain your juicer status.
8. Track your expenses: Keep detailed records of your mileage, equipment costs, and other expenses for tax purposes.
9. Collaborate with other juicers: Share information and tips with fellow juicers to improve your overall strategy.
10. Diversify your gig work: Consider combining Lime juicing with other gig economy jobs like rideshare or food delivery to maximize your overall earnings.

Understanding Local Regulations: A Must for Lime Juicers

When becoming a Lime juicer, it's crucial to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding e-scooters, as these can vary significantly by city and affect how and where scooters can be deployed. Some cities may have specific requirements for where scooters can be parked, operational hours, and safety standards. For instance, certain jurisdictions might restrict scooter usage in specific areas or during particular times of the day. Others may impose stringent safety regulations that juicers must adhere to when charging and deploying scooters. Staying informed about these local regulations ensures compliance and helps avoid potential fines or penalties. Additionally, understanding these rules can optimize your juicing strategy by aligning it with local guidelines, thereby enhancing efficiency and profitability. Always check with local transportation authorities or Lime's guidelines for the most up-to-date information on e-scooter regulations in your area.

Lime vs. Bird

Why would you choose to juice for Lime rather than Bird? Let’s go through a few quick facts, and you’ll see. 

Both Lime and Bird have similar payment models, in which they pay you a base rate of $3 to $5 for charging and dropping off each scooter. 

But, pay per scooter varies based on when the scooter becomes available for a charge and how long it's been since its last charge. Bird has a range of $3 to $20 per scooter, whereas Lime usually starts out with a base rate of $5 to $12 per scooter.

An upside of charging for Bird is that you’ll be paid at a reduced rate if you release a scooter that isn’t at 100% charge. Lime withholds payment for not meeting charge standards, and may even revoke your juicer status at times. That’s because Lime wants to give the best possible service to its customers by making sure its scooters are charged at at least 95%.

When choosing whether to charge for Lime or Bird, it really comes down to convenience for you and figuring out which hubs you’re closest to. If Lime hubs or Bird hubs are inconvenient spots for you, you’ll make less money if you have to travel too far to get the job done. Depending on the popularity of either company in your city, this is a huge consideration to factor in. 

Hoarding

In some cases, juicers can get cutthroat about grabbing up scooters. Lime is bringing order to the chaos by introducing a Reserve feature. This allows juicers to reserve, and lay claim to, a scooter before picking it up at the end of the day for charging. 

Now, harvesting for Lime is not a first-come, first-served situation. In the past, harvesting could only be done once the juicer arrived at the scooter’s location and unlocked it with the Lime app. 

There have been some scary situations that involved people hoarding scooters in an attempt to defraud the companies, with criminals using scooters to lure juicers into unsafe areas. Since this job takes you to strange places mostly at night, there are serious safety concerns to consider before working as a juicer, and it’s important that you stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions. 

Make Lime juicing your next side gig

If you want an easy after-hours gig to add to your rideshare or delivery income, juicing for Lime could be just the ticket. Like all gig driving work, there are some risks to deal with, but for the most part, the benefits outweigh the risks.

And, just like rideshare and delivery, having a strategy is crucial. Once you get the hang of things, figure out where the best scooter hubs are, and lay out your money-making plan from there.  

One last consideration about being a juicer: You’ll need a vehicle that’s large enough to hold the scooters. You’ll also need to take measures to protect the inside of the car from upholstery tears and scuff marks, or other damage caused by the scooters. 

When you’re ready to roll, all you need to do is start juicing for Lime.

Do you have any tips and tricks for being a Lime juicer? Leave your comment to tell us how to make this gig even sweeter.

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More resources you might enjoy

• Make $1,000 a week with DoorDash
• 10 Ways To Stay Safe As A Delivery Or Rideshare Driver
• How to make $1000 a week with Amazon Flex
• Here's how to make $1000 with Uber Eats a week
• Maximize earnings with Gridwise features
• Check out the Gridwise Job Board

Many rideshare and food delivery drivers have discovered the attraction of gig work, including jobs that don’t require a car. Gig workers or side hustlers can control when, where, and how much you make by assembling a collection of side hustles matching your strengths, resources, and lifestyle if you work for one of the best side hustle websites.

The best way to immerse yourself in gig work is by working with the best side hustle websites and apps. Some of these platforms offer side hustle jobs from home. Others take you out into the world. This is a collection of some of the best side hustle platforms that have come to our attention. 

If you earn your living from side hustle platforms, you fall into the category of self-employed. That’s really great because it gives you immense freedom and power, but it also means responsibilities. You need to know your expenses and where you make the most money. This is where the Gridwise app can be your best friend. Read to the end of this blogpost and learn how Gridwise can help you earn more, keep more, and pay less in taxes.

If you like, you can also refer to a previous Gridwise article, Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024.

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Why should you use an app or side hustle platform?

Using apps or side hustle websites to search for work has distinct advantages. Yes, most of them take a small fee to administer the site, but they are often worth the investment. Consider these benefits:

Central platform. Finding work is one of the most challenging tasks when embarking on a side hustle career. Knocking on doors is time-consuming and unproductive. Voicemail makes phone calls frustrating. However, if someone posts a gig on a side hustle platform or app, you know they are interested. These platforms give you a central location for researching jobs. You know these people are looking for your service.  

Job specific. Whether your side hustle is rideshare, delivery, dog walking, or handyman services, there is probably an app or platform full of jobs in your specialty. You’re not having to search all over. 

Geography specific. Some side hustles allow you to work from anywhere in the world. For instance, freelance writers and graphic designers can work anyplace they can set up their laptop and get a Wi-Fi connection. If you specialize in personal services, such as dog walking, handyman jobs, and delivery—all jobs tied to a specific geographical region—then you will want to refine your search to a particular area. Apps and websites can help you do this. 

Ensure payment. The best side hustle websites and apps administer payment. They require the entity seeking work to register a credit card or bank account. When a work agreement is reached, they hold the funds in escrow, ensuring that you get paid. This keeps you from getting burned by dishonest clients. 

The best side hustle websites and apps

So you’ve decided to embark on a career of side hustles. Let’s look at some side hustle companies and platforms out there. If you remember from reading the Gridwise article, Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024, the term side hustle stack, refers to a collection of side hustles. You should consider any of these for your side hustle stack. 

Food delivery companies

We all know the food delivery story. These apps and companies skyrocketed in popularity during the pandemic, and users have found them a hard habit to break. Some restaurants are doing as much as 30% to 40% of their business in delivery, and industry experts expect this sector to continue growing. The bottom line is that food delivery apps—prepared food and groceries—will continue to generate a lot of gig work, making them a profitable side hustle. 

You need access to a reliable car, although densely populated areas may support delivery on a bicycle or scooter. 

Websites: DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub

Rideshare companies

Uber and Lyft continue to rule this market. Drivers who are strategic in their hours and where they work can do well. Large metropolitan areas, especially with airports, provide lots of rides for drivers. Lyft and Uber continue to innovate their apps with new related services that promise extra rides for drivers that include priority pickups, saving a little by waiting a few minutes longer for a car, or added comfort with larger cars.  

You will need a late-model car. Check your specific region, as requirements differ from one service area to another. 

Websites: Uber.com, Lyft.com

Roadie

If you’re a rideshare driver, Roadie represents an opportunity for you. The best and most strategic rideshare drivers can predict the areas they will be in during a shift. Since many deliveries on the Roadie app are not time sensitive, you can pick up a delivery if you know you’ll eventually be near the airport or downtown area sometime later to make the drop-off. Many airlines use Roadie to deliver misrouted baggage. So if you know you’ll be at the airport, and the delivery is on your way home at the end of a shift, you can earn the money for the delivery with minimal effort. 

Website: Roadie.com 

There are side hustles for services that you haven’t even considered. The best way to discover them is to check out this recent Gridwise article, Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024. 

Deliveroo 

If you're thinking of moving across the pond to any of a number of European countries, and you want to continue earning a living with side hustles, consider Deliveroo. The company operates in the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar. Deliveroo is also involved in cloud kitchens, where the staff prepares for delivery only. You can do Deliveroo in a reliable car, bicycle, or scooter. 

Website: Deliveroo.co.uk

TaskRabbit 

Are you handy with a hammer and drill? TaskRabbit’s jobs range from mounting a flatscreen television or chandelier to more involved projects. Thumb through the app and look for the projects that you know you're capable of completing in a professional manner. TaskRabbit stresses same-day service, so you should be ready to work, and it’s necessary to have your own tools. 

Website: Taskrabbit.com

FlexJobs

FlexJobs is your site for hybrid and remote work. Jobs include accounting, call centers, customer service, data entry, finance, and more. FlexJobs’ client list includes companies such as CVS Health, Progressive, DocuSign, and others. 

Website: Flexjobs.com

Nextdoor 

Nextdoor is a neighborhood website where you can advertise your services—including  handyman, childcare, senior care, or whatever else you do. The great feature is that you can advertise hyper-locally so that you remain in your community as much as possible. The downside is that Nextdoor doesn't administer payment, so negotiating fees and getting paid is between you and the client. 

Website: Nextdoor.com

Thumbtack

Thumbtack is similar to Taskrabbit, although Thumbtack offers a broader array of job types, including DJs, wedding planners, event planners, musicians, and lots more. Thumbtack also integrates with other customer management tools (Housecall Pro, Jobber, and others) that you might use to manage your side hustle business. 

Website: Thumbtack.com

Bark.com 

Don’t let the name fool you. Bark is not a dog walking or pet care service. The website covers everything from writing services to tutoring to personal training and massage therapy. 

Website: Bark.com

Rover

Rover, on the other hand, is a pet-care site. You can sign up for boarding in your home, overnight pet sitting in the owner’s home, drop-in visits, dog walking, and other pet-related services. You can go onto the Rover app and mark when you're available, set your schedule and prices, and indicate the areas you specialize in. Like many of these sites, Rover handles payment and allows you to set prices.

Website: Rover.com 

Do you want to know how to assemble the ultimate side hustle stack? The best place to start is with Gridwise. Read this recent article, Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024. 

TaskEasy

This site takes us back to the more traditional handyman services but focuses on the property maintenance aspect of work. If you specialize in condominium communities or business parks, this website and app is for you. 

Website: Taskeasy.com

Ivueit

If you know about construction, Ivueit.com might be the site for you. These are primarily home inspections, routinely required when someone is selling or purchasing a home. The Ivueit app walks you through the process, allows you to take photos, and helps you produce a professional report.

Better yet, this is the kind of side hustle that you can dovetail with your other activities. Sign up through the Ivueit app to inspect a home in a specific neighborhood, and then rideshare your way there using the Set Destination function on your rideshare app. You earn money on your way to earning more money. 

Website: Ivueit.com

Fiverr

Fiverr takes a different turn, focusing on the more creative side—graphic designers, web designers, voiceover, and product marketing. In addition, Fiverr has gigs in software development, data science, and more. If you have some professional skills, this is the site for you. 

 Website: Fiverr.com

Upwork

Upwork is a close competitor to Fiverr, and lately, they’ve been doing a fair amount of advertising on network and cable television. Like Fiverr, you register your profile and designate your specialty—graphic design, technical writing, programming, personal assistant, etc. Upwork is one of the most thorough and popular side hustle apps available, with tutorials and webinars on earning more. 

 Website: Upwork.com

Care

Care is a site for house cleaning and pet care, but it goes further and connects people with babysitters and even senior care. Senior care will become an increasingly vital service as the baby boomers grow older and their children, Gen Xers and millennials, struggle to meet their needs. Check online for babysitting and senior care certifications that will qualify you for these jobs. 

 Website: Care.com

How not to get hustled on your side hustle

Thousands of people, even tens of thousands, make their living with a side hustle stack. Depending on the hustles you work, making decent money is possible. Unfortunately, it's also possible to get taken advantage of. Here are some tips for not getting hustled by your side hustle. 

Set a price for yourself

Determine what kind of income you want to generate, break it down to a daily or hourly rate, and then engage in side hustles that allow you to make that level of money—and stick to your established level of earnings! People are out there who will offer to pay you peanuts for your services, and if you let them get away with it, they will continue to do so. 

Sites like Fiverr and Upwork allow you to set an hourly rate. If a potential client’s budget doesn’t meet your threshold, pass them over. Plenty of clients will be willing to pay the appropriate rates. In many cases, you have been doing this for a while. You might even have a college degree. You need to be paid appropriately for your services. 

Another version is the client who asks you to do a test job for free. They say things like, “Let’s see how it works out,” or “We want to ensure we like your work.” Hang up the phone, kill the internet connection, and don’t answer their emails. This rarely works out in your favor. 

Research how to work on these sites

Lots of experienced side hustlers have been there before you and have valuable advice. On Google or YouTube try entering “Tips for working on Rover” or “How to make six figures annually on Upwork.” Learn from other’s mistakes and get some solid advice before taking on any of the most popular side hustle websites.

Verify how payment works

As we mentioned earlier, many of these sites handle payment. This is convenient because it makes it difficult for you to get burned. The app may charge an administration fee, but it’s almost always worth it. 

Beware of scams

They are out there. We know of a freelance writer who applied for a job on a site, and the client approached him within hours with an offer for a full-time job with a well-known European media conglomerate moving into the US. They sent him an official-looking employment contract, offering a handsome wage and excellent benefits. 

Then they said that he had to purchase their equipment from a third-party vendor, and they would reimburse him for it, to the tune of about $5,000. 

That’s when the freelancer got suspicious. He looked up the company and sent an email to their PR department. They knew nothing about any such activity, weren’t moving into the US and had never heard the name of his contact. Everything was bogus. In all likelihood, the third-party vendor was someone’s personal bank account and reimbursement would never come, and neither would the equipment.

Some apps are trying to crack down on this activity, but they still sneak through. You need to beware. 

Other warning signs

There are also warning signs and things you should not do while working on an app. These are especially true for those apps that advertise professional services such as writing, bookkeeping, graphic design. The apps try to weed out these scammers, but occasionally they infiltrate. Here is what to look for.

Unbelievable offers: There’s a simple rule: if it’s too good to be true, it usually is. Just like our freelancer who was offered a high-paying position, scammers will try to lure you with the promise of fantastic earnings and a low bar to entry. The unbelievable offers are a significant warning sign.

Trying to lure you off the app: If you encounter a client through an app, most terms of service prohibit you from working with that company or individual outside the app, at least for a specific time. If someone asks you to communicate with them off the app, this is typically a warning that they are trying to scam you.

An always available contact: Most client companies on these apps and websites run a nine-to-five operation. If your contact is messaging you at all hours, or is responding to your messages 24/7, that is suspicious. You should be aware.

Any suspicious activity: Most apps have a contract mechanism spelling out the work expectations and the compensation you will receive. If a client wants you to call third parties, ask for information, sell services, or make other offers, especially if you don’t have a contract, then they are likely involved in or getting set up for a scam.

The world of side hustles is immense and gets bigger every day. Do you want to see how your experience and talent might fit into a side hustle? Read this recent article, Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024. 

How the Gridwise app can help you with your side hustle

Remember that if you make a living through side hustles, you almost always work as an independent contractor. Neither the apps nor your clients withhold taxes for the IRS or the state. Taxes are your responsibility. The better you track your income and expenses, the better the odds you won’t pay unnecessary taxes. 

Job-related vehicle mileage can be a substantial deduction for side hustle earners, especially considering the standard IRS mileage deduction in 2024 is 67 cents a mile for business use. The Gridwise mileage tracker, part of the Gridwise app, is the perfect way to passively track your miles and easily download them at the end of the year. Installation is simple, and once installed, the Gridwise mileage tracker passively records your mileage. 

Most expenses incurred while working a side hustle are also deductible. The Gridwise expense tracker allows you to photograph receipts and type in a few words about each expense. 

The Gridwise app stores mileage and business expense information so that you can download it into a file and manipulate it with Excel or other software. What used to take days at tax time is now accomplished in minutes with the Gridwise app.

Finally, the Gridwise app lets you enter your side hustles and compare them to see where you’re earning the most. You can be more efficient and spot those little sleeper hustles that could become big earners for you with a bit of work and ingenuity. 

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Check out these Gridwise pages to learn more about the Gridwise mileage tracker:

• Download the Gridwise app (includes the Gridwise mileage tracker)
• Unlock Your Earning Potential: The Best Side Hustle Jobs in 2024
• TaskRabbit: A Flexible Side Hustle Platform

“A side hustle to someone’s side hustle.” That’s the description of Roadie, a delivery service that relies on gig drivers to deliver anything from lost luggage to furniture to prescription drugs. The quote comes from Marc Gorlin, the founding CEO of Roadie. Roadie might be the ultimate in multi-apping. It’s possible for a Roadie driver to schedule a pickup and have that assignment active on the Roadie app while delivering food or transporting rideshare customers.

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How does Roadie work?

The origin story

Marc Gorlin, already a veteran of tech-related startups, conceived of Roadie in 2014 when an order of tile for his Florida condominium arrived at the contractor’s yard. The shipment was hopelessly damaged. A replacement order was available but stuck in an Alabama warehouse and would not arrive for several days. 

Gorlin sat in his car on a freeway overpass contemplating the delay of his remodel while watching empty pickup trucks passing in both directions on the interstate. He knew some of them were probably traveling between where his tile was warehoused and his condominium, but there was no way he could get any of those drivers to agree to transport it. Gorlin later discovered the potential of those cars.

“That’s an unbelievable resource,” Gorlin told UGA Today, a publication of his alma mater, the University of Georgia, “250 million passenger vehicles hit the road daily with almost 4 billion cubic feet of excess capacity.”

Almost a decade later, Roadie has more than 200,000 drivers and serves about 90% of the US population. The firm claims it can deliver just about anything the same day, next day, and urgently to 20,000+ zip codes nationwide. 

Roadie contracts with major airlines to deliver lost luggage. Retailers such as Best Buy, Home Depot, and Tractor Supply use Roadie to transport purchases. The pandemic brought a skyrocketing demand for deliveries to businesses and homebound consumers looking for that last-mile delivery. In September 2021, UPS acquired Roadie. According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, the purchase price was north of $500 million. 

Roadie in action

Retailers, airlines, and other entities needing items delivered post their requests on the Roadie app. Information includes the item being picked up, pickup location, where it’s going, size, weight, delivery deadline (if any), and what the gig pays. Roadie refers to each delivery as a “gig.” Drivers indicate through the app if they are interested in the delivery. Once the gig is assigned, they pick it up and make the delivery. Both pickup and delivery are confirmed through photos on the app.

How the Roadie driver app works with other apps

You’re a rideshare driver living in New Jersey near Newark Liberty International Airport, but your strategy is to hit the road at 4:00 am, when you’re likely to get a passenger heading to JFK International Airport, which pays a handsome fare. Before you turn on your rideshare app, you check the Roadie driver app. An airline in Newark needs a misrouted piece of luggage transported to JFK by 11:00 am. You pick up the luggage at the Newark airport, turn on your rideshare app, and head for JFK, predictably picking up a ride en route. You drop off the passenger, then go to the terminal for the lost luggage and make that delivery before 7:00 am. 

You just got paid for two deliveries at once. Then you can look for another Roadie delivery or spend the rest of the day in New York City on the rideshare app. When it’s time to go home, you check the Roadie driver app for misrouted luggage that needs to get from JFK to Newark or any other delivery along your travel route.

What you could deliver as a Roadie driver

Roadie drivers are known for their versatility in transporting a diverse array of items, such as:

• Small packages and personal effects
• Large and cumbersome items
• Various types of furniture including chairs and sofas
• Electronic devices like laptops and tablets
• Major household appliances, including fridges and ovens
• Musical instruments from guitars to tubas
• Sporting equipment, including kayaks and bikes
• A range of food products, including perishables
• Essential medical supplies
• Art pieces and valuable collectibles
• Goods purchased from online platforms like Craigslist or eBay
• Misplaced luggage, in collaboration with airlines such as Delta

Roadie's service offerings are notably adaptable, proudly delivering everything "from cupcakes to couches". They efficiently manage same-day, urgent, and planned deliveries for both commercial clients and private individuals throughout the United States.

Roadie particularly highlights their expertise in transporting items that pose challenges for conventional shipping methods, especially those that are oversized or bulky. Additionally, their service is tailored to accommodate the needs of various sectors.

How much do Roadie delivery drivers earn?

Roadie deliveries are best when used in a blend of gig driving activities, allowing drivers to earn more during what is otherwise considered downtime. A recent blog post on Sidehusl.com reports that Roadie deliveries average $13, with a range of $8 up to $100. Bulkier items often command a higher price tag and may require a truck or van.  

Here is a look at Roadie driver earnings according to numbers collected from drivers using the Gridwise app.

Roadie*Base earnings (median)Tip earnings (median)Total earnings (median)Total trips (median)Earnings per delivery(mean)Hours worked (median)Hourly rate (median)2022 Q1$124$9$14011$12.735.04$27.782022 Q2$162$5$17712$14.756.3$28.102022 Q3$123$4$1329$14.676.15$21.462022 Q4$168$7$18114$12.936.42$28.192023 Q1$132$5$14611$13.276.72$21.73

*Note that there is a discrepancy between the combination of base and tip earnings and what is stated in the gross earnings. This is due to a 5% variance in computing numbers for comparison. 

In reviewing these numbers, consider that they represent earnings from all Roadie drivers for a quarter, including those who have done one or two deliveries and those that do dozens of deliveries. Nevertheless, Roadie pays among the highest of any gig driving job when broken down into hourly earnings. 

But a review of Roadie numbers for the top-performing drivers (those in the 90th percentile) presents a more inviting picture. 

Roadie*Base earnings (mean)Tip earnings (mean)Total earnings (mean)Total trips (mean)Earnings per delivery(mean)Hours worked (mean)Hourly rate (mean)2022 Q1$1,081$109$1,24191$13.6433.87$36.642022 Q2$1,571$92$1,695102$16.6244.64$37.972022 Q3$1,230$74$1,34187$15.4128.77$46.612022 Q4$1,381$84$1,486130$11.4332.76$45.362023 Q1$1,135$73$1,19710211.7342.68$27.90

*Note the discrepancy between the combination of base and tip earnings and what is stated in the gross earnings. This is due to a 5% variance in computing numbers for comparison. 

Top-producing drivers are earning some of the best hourly wages of gig drivers. 

Payments

According to its website, Roadie processes payments to gig drivers every Tuesday. Depending on the recipient bank, deposits appear in the driver’s bank account in one to three days. There is also an Instant Pay option.

Tax Implications for Roadie Drivers

As a gig worker, particularly for those driving with Roadie, managing your taxes can often seem like navigating through a complex maze. However, understanding the basics and organizing your finances can make tax season a breeze rather than a burden.

Navigating taxes as a gig worker can be tricky. Here are some key points to remember:

• You're considered an independent contractor, responsible for your own taxes
• Keep meticulous records of your earnings and expenses
• Use mileage tracking apps to maximize your mileage deductions
• Set aside a portion of your earnings for quarterly estimated tax payments

Streamline your mileage, income and expense records with Gridwise

For gig drivers looking to streamline their operations and maximize earnings, adopting Gridwise is a game-changer, particularly when tax season rolls around. This powerful app not only meticulously tracks your mileage (a significant deductible for drivers), but it also organizes your earnings and expenses across multiple platforms in one convenient dashboard.

By using Gridwise, you can ensure that no deductible expense or mile goes unrecorded, thus maximizing your potential tax deductions. This organized data simplifies the process of filing taxes, potentially reducing your taxable income and increasing your refund.

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Essentially, Gridwise doesn't just help you manage your driving gigs—it empowers you to take full control of your financial health, turning tax time from a headache into a rewarding end-of-year ritual.

How to become a roadie driver, the sign up process

To become a Roadie driver, sign up through the website. 

Qualifications needed to be a Roadie delivery driver

Minimum qualifications include

• being 18 years old 
• possessing a valid driver’s license 
• having a Social Security number 
• maintaining a minimum 4-star rating in the Roadie driver database, based on feedback from senders 

Roadie delivery driver vehicle requirements

The Roadie.com website does not currently state any requirements for the type of vehicle a driver can use; however, their terms and conditions note that senders can indicate which type of vehicle to use for a delivery, such as a truck for delivering large items.

Roadie driver reviews and ratings

Roadie drivers are reviewed by senders based on a five-star system. The firm is serious about reviews—drivers who fall under four stars risk suspension from the app. 

Roadie delivery driver tips

Your tips come from senders and are passed on to the drivers through the app. Tips for Roadie drivers average less than 10% of total earnings and often considerably less. This is most likely due to the high percentage of deliveries from corporate-owned retailers with managers working with limited budgets.

Roadie delivery driver rewards

Roadie has yet to have a driver rewards or incentive program that Gridwise has been able to verify, nor has Roadie revealed plans to establish one. 

Roadie’s Gig Matching

More than a year ago, Gridwise ran a blog post about Roadie titled How Much Did Roadie Drivers Make in 2021? In this post, we addressed the various levels of Roadie certifications. These included

• Cargo Trailer 
• Extra Equipped 
• TSA Certification 

The Roadie website lists how drivers can attain these levels. 

More recently, the company has developed a system referred to as Gig Matching. When multiple Roadie drivers indicate an interest in a particular delivery, the Roadie algorithm rates the riders based on predetermined criteria. This criteria includes the listed certification levels as well as other factors, such as

• vehicle size
• driver ratings
• gigs the driver is already delivering
• proximity to pickup location
• the direction the driver is already headed

Roadie’s Gig Matching algorithm weighs these factors and others in selecting the driver for a particular gig. It will match drivers with multiple deliveries when they are all going in one general region and meet the qualifications. 

As mentioned earlier, Roadie recently started delivering for ScriptDrop, a healthcare technology company connecting pharmacies to delivery partners. Drivers who qualify for ScriptDrop deliveries must use the app to take a photo of themselves when they pick up the prescription and another photo when they drop it off.

Roadie Driver Support

Roadie offers comprehensive support to its drivers, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed. This includes:

• 24/7 customer service hotline
• In-app chat support for real-time assistance
• Detailed FAQ section on the Roadie website
• Regular driver newsletters with tips and updates
• Local driver meetups for networking and problem-solving

Roadie Driver Reviews

At the end of the day, what drivers experience when driving for a platform has a bearing on their overall satisfaction. On looking into Roadie reviews, Roadie delivery driver reviews provide valuable insights into the Roadie experience.

This is the gist of what drivers say:

• Many drivers appreciate the flexibility of choosing their own schedules
• Some report earning potential of $100-$200 per day with strategic gig selection
• Positive feedback often mentions the user-friendly app interface
• Criticisms sometimes include inconsistent gig availability in certain areas
• Overall, drivers rate the experience 4.2 out of 5 stars on average

Advice for Roadie drivers

The Roadie website does an excellent job of educating Roadie drivers on the ins and outs of their job, complete with videos. Here are specific tips:

Make regular offers on Roadie gigs. You won’t get every gig you make an offer on, but when you see something that makes sense for where you’re going, put your name in. 

Be on time. Arrive to pick up the item when you said you would get there, and ensure items are delivered by the hour indicated. 

Avoid cancellations. Roadie does allow you to cancel a gig you have committed to, but abusing this will affect your rating, sometimes to the point of temporary suspension. 

Take good gig photos. Roadie requires photos of most gigs, when you pick up items and when you deliver them. 

Be a nice person. Even though you're a contract worker and technically self-employed, you're the face of Roadie to both senders and recipients. Roadie wants you to be your best self. 

Prioritize your gigs. If you're mixing a Roadie gig with another gig, such as driving a rideshare passenger to the airport and dropping off a piece of lost luggage, don’t ask the passenger to wait in the car while you deliver the luggage first. Plan your gigs so that they are independent of one another. 

Keep a folding box for multiple gigs. Doing Roadie deliveries for ScriptDrop is an excellent example where you might get multiple deliveries. Keep them organized with a folding box in your car. 

Experiment, experiment, experiment. Sometimes, you’ll want to turn off your other apps and work exclusively for Roadie, especially when making multiple deliveries. Constantly experiment to see what works.

Best practices on customer service for Roadie Drivers

In the fast-paced gig economy, especially for Roadie drivers, stellar customer service is crucial for enhancing your ratings and securing more lucrative gigs.

Here are some refined customer service strategies every Roadie driver should remember to ensure exemplary service and improve their standing on the platform:

1. Punctuality and professionalism
   Timeliness is critical in setting the right impression for your service delivery. Strive to be on time or ideally, a few minutes early. Professionalism also extends to how you present yourself and the condition of your vehicle. A clean and tidy vehicle not only respects your deliveries but also enhances the customer’s experience.
2. Handle items with care
   Whether delivering small packages or larger parcels, each item should be treated with the highest level of care and respect. Securely place all items in your vehicle to prevent any damage during transit. This careful handling will reflect positively in your service ratings.
3. Go the extra mile
   When the situation allows, exceed the basic service expectations. Simple acts like assisting with heavy or awkward packages can greatly enhance the customer experience and positively impact your ratings. These additional efforts can also increase the likelihood of receiving higher tips and better reviews.
4. Maintain a high rating
   Delivering consistently excellent customer service is key to building and keeping a strong rating. Remember, a higher rating can lead to more frequent and more profitable driving opportunities.

Gridwise makes Roadie even more profitable

Roadie drivers use Gridwise's mileage tracker to maximize their mileage deduction, and Gridwise's earning tracker keeps everything organized in one place.

Gridwise also shows drivers the most profitable times and places to drive.

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How To Build Great Credit As A Rideshare Or Delivery Driver

Knowledge is power, and when it comes to your credit report, knowledge can help you establish and manage your credit history. Credit is important. It dictates how much you will pay for your next car loan, a home mortgage, and even gig driver car insurance. 

Yes, according to Insurance.com, a low credit score can affect what you pay for rideshare car insurance. Studies indicate a driver with bad credit has a greater chance of filing more and bigger claims.  

How much higher a rate can you pay? Bad credit can cost you as much as 71% more in gig driver car insurance. That’s a lot. 

Gridwise recently established a benefits partnership with Self, a company based in Austin, Texas. Self has developed financial tools that help people struggling with how to build a good credit score. They also provide credit education. Remember, knowledge is power, and what you don’t know about credit reports can cost you a lot of money and affect your gig-driving career.

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The confounding world of credit

Credit is important for rideshare and delivery driver expenses. Their car is their primary business tool. It is important to have a reliable model that looks nice. There are other reasons, too. At the top is the sheer size of the investment in a car. Aside from buying a house, a car is often the largest purchase you will ever make. Cars are a big part of gig driver finance, and your credit score will often dictate what kind of car you can buy. 

Here are some other things to know. 

Different companies provide different reports on your credit

Most of us are familiar with the three major credit reporting companies: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. These companies report on credit ratings, helping lenders determine an individual’s FICO score, or credit score. FICO stands for Fair Isaac Corporation, the firm that developed the method of computing a person’s credit score. Your FICO Score governs what interest rate you will pay on a loan.  

Each one of the credit reporting companies uses slightly different methods of compiling information, and they may arrive at slightly different answers. Scores range from 300 to 850. The higher the score, the better you are as a credit risk, and the more likely you will get a lower interest rate and corresponding lower payments. 

Finance entities don’t all report the same thing to the same credit agency

You have a car loan that reports to all three credit agencies but a department store credit card that only reports to one. This inconsistency can skew your credit report, driving it up or down, and is one reason agencies report differently. 

Depending on what you are financing, the lender might use a different credit score

Banks and car dealerships use a different source for your FICO score, often called a FICO Auto Score. These scores come from the same three companies, but they base the score on a different set of considerations. 

Suppose someone has a mortgage or rent payment, a car loan, and a credit card payment. How will they prioritize those loans or payments if they have financial difficulty? The mortgage or rent payment usually comes first because somewhere to live is critical. The car payment comes next since getting to work and other places is also essential. Credit cards and other loans follow and are more likely to get missed. 

But people are different, and they manage their money differently. Your base FICO Score evaluates how you will manage any payment in the next 24 months. A FICO Auto Score looks at your credit history and asks, How likely is this person to miss a car payment based on their credit history? This gives you a slightly different score. 

Making it even more confusing, banks and car dealerships use different versions to compute their FICO Auto Score. A Self blog post compares it to the “many versions of smartphone software, and how some users will update their operating systems while others continue to use older options.”

The VantageScore is a newer system of scoring auto loan recipients, but even it has newer and older versions. The newer VantageScore system scores similar to the industry standard of 300 to 850, while the older VantageScore System uses a scoring range of 501 to 990. Both are still used by car dealerships. You can imagine the confusion.  

A good credit score can save you lots of money

Imagine that you are in the market for a good used car for rideshare and other gig driving activities. You’ve had some back luck, and your credit score is 575, making you a subprime credit prospect, which is not good. On a used car purchase, according to CarsDirect.com, you could be stuck with an interest rate of 17.29% and more than $5,000 in additional finance costs, depending on the amount financed. 

Your FICO Score affects other things besides what interest rate you pay

We’ve already talked about how good credit can help gig drivers in their quest on how to lower car insurance payments, but Investopedia reports that bad credit can also affect your ability to rent a home or apartment. Utilities may require you to pay a deposit, and bad credit can affect your ability to qualify for certain jobs. Potential employers might consider a low credit score a sign of untrustworthiness. 

Incidentally, and not surprisingly, another version of the FICO score is used to evaluate someone for a home mortgage. 

Build and maintain credit with Self

Remember, information is power. The Self website, especially the blog, contains helpful information. The Self Personal Finance Blog answers questions about credit, how to build and maintain it, and other topics, including how to deal with money when you realize a significant other has a different perspective on the subject. 

Build credit. Self Credit Builder Accounts help you learn how to manage money and how to build credit. 

Build more credit. You can qualify for a Self VISA Credit Card. Self reports to all three credit reporting agencies, helping you build a consistent credit history. 

Build credit using non-traditional sources. Self can help you use payment histories from rent, utilities, and even cell phone bills to help build credit—sources not traditionally considered in your credit history. 

Self has multiple seals of approval

There are firms that market credit repair and other credit solutions. Many charge a lot for very few services. 

Self is different. The firm has attracted venture capital and other funding from discerning sources such as Altos Ventures, Meritech Capital Partners, Conductive Ventures, Silverton Partners, Kickstart Seed Fund, Techstars, and Galvanize Ventures, now known as Upslope. 

This past August, Self was named one of the 25 Austin-based startups to watch in 2022 by SiliconHillsNews.com, a technology website reporting on tech news in the Texas communities of Austin and San Antonio. USA Today featured Self in a recent article. The list goes on …

This new partnership between Gridwise and Self offers benefits to gig drivers

Gridwise knows that lowering expenses is crucial for gig drivers - that’s why we recommend Self! Self can help you lower your auto insurance payment by building your credit score. Not sure if Self is meant for you? Self has helped over 4 million people from all careers and backgrounds. They’re built for everyone, including gig drivers. 

So, ready to start building your credit score?

Get started with Self today 

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DoorDash's market share in food delivery is 78.6%, according to the Annual Gig Mobility Report from Gridwise Analytics. This statistic alone has compelled many food delivery drivers to conclude that DoorDash is the gig platform of choice for earning money. But what is best mileage tracking app for DoorDash? Why is this important for earnings?

DoorDash drivers have also found that they can increase their DoorDash profits by legitimately paying less in taxes. They accomplish this by maintaining an accurate record of the miles they cover as a food delivery driver. DoorDash drivers looking for these tax deductions find that the best mileage tracking app for DoorDash is Gridwise. Gridwise mileage reports not only save drivers from paying unnecessary taxes, but they are also handy should they ever get audited by the IRS. 

Read on and learn all about the Gridwise mileage tracker and what the best mileage tracking app for DoorDash is. The first thing you should do, though, is download it.

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Should DoorDash drivers track mileage?

There is anecdotal evidence from a Reddit thread that it’s not uncommon for full-time DoorDash drivers to put as much as 200 job-related miles on their car per shift, equalling 1,000 miles a week and 50,000 a year. According to a recent release by the IRS, the standard business mileage deduction has been increased to 67 cents a mile. That allows a DoorDash driver to subtract $33,500 from their taxable income, placing them in a considerably lower tax bracket. 

For example, a DoorDash driver who earned $45,000 in 2023 (when the standard mileage deduction was 65.5 cents) would have a tax deduction on mileage alone of $32,750 based on 50,000 miles. That leaves a taxable income of $12,250. The federal tax on that is $1,223. This does not include any additional deduction you might get from expenses besides the standard mileage deduction (e.g., extra thermal bags, flashlight, etc.). 

As you can see, accurately tracking your mileage can only work to your advantage, and the best mileage tracking app for DoorDash drivers is Gridwise. 

Why do I need a mileage tracker when the gig platforms give me my mileage?

One of the first questions in any DoorDash driver discussion is whether to look for the best app for tracking mileage. For many gig platforms, the year-end earnings statement lists the miles you covered while picking up and delivering food orders. 

However, this statement is not completely accurate. The miles you drive before your first order, the miles covered between orders, and the miles driving home at the end of your shift are all tax deductible. 

It’s a hassle to keep a written log of your mileage. You forget to record your starting mileage or your ending mileage at the conclusion of your shift. Pretty soon, you resort to guesstimating and then completely neglecting the log. At tax time, you rely on the figure you get from your earnings statement, or you make it up and hope you don’t get audited by the IRS. 

Gridwise also provides easy-to-print mileage reports. Should your tax return get audited, the agent will appreciate straightforward reports from your Gridwise mileage tracker. Instead of an adversarial relationship with the agent, your session may end up more with information sharing. They will be thankful you have such well-organized and accurate records to present. 

What app do DoorDash drivers use? To get an accurate mileage record, rely on Gridwise, the best mileage tracking app. 

Gridwise: The best mileage tracking app for DoorDash

When it comes to tracking miles on the DoorDash platform, you unsurpirisinglt can’t go wrong with Gridwise. Veteran gig-platform drivers, the creators of Gridwise, realized that drivers must record every mile of their gig driving business. Gridwise can help you save hundreds, even thousands of dollars in taxes.

Must-have features in an app for tracking DoorDash mileage 

Why is Gridwise the best mileage tracking app for DoorDash? Simply put, the Gridwise developers have done their homework. 

Features of the Gridwise mileage tracker include

• Accuracy. The Gridwise mileage tracker synchronizes with the GPS on your cell phone, accurately tracking every mile you drive when the app is on. 
• Independence. The Gridwise mileage tracker operates in the background of your phone. You don’t have to think about it. 
• Convenience. The Gridwise mileage tracker has a setting that senses when you begin to drive and sends a message through your phone asking if you want to turn on the mileage tracker. No more lost miles because you forgot to record your starting mileage. If you forget to turn off the Gridwise mileage tracker at the end of your shift, the Gridwise mileage tracker senses you’re no longer driving and asks if you want to turn off the app.  
• Reporting. You can download the mileage record from the Gridwise mileage tracker into a Microsoft Excel file for easy manipulation. Drop in a formula, and you have weekly, monthly, and annual mileage counts in minutes, making tax time a breeze. 
• Expenses. The Gridwise mileage tracker lets you take photos of expense receipts and add a brief description. The next time you purchase a wagon for large orders or something else to make dashing easier, you’ll have a record of the expense for tax time. 
• Ease of mind. With Gridwise, you know you have a solid record of the miles you traveled. In the event of an IRS audit, it’s solid proof.

The idea of an IRS audit alone should be enough to compel you to start using Gridwise. Gig drivers are the newest classification of businesses for IRS auditing. Auditors jump at the chance to dive into something new and different, eager to figure out how existing IRS regulations apply.

Don’t be the IRS guinea pig. Download the Gridwise mileage tracker today. 

Gridwise offers more benefits to DoorDash drivers

You will get even more with the Gridwise mileage tracker. The Gridwise app includes features to boost your earnings potential as a DoorDash driver and for working on other gig platforms, too. 

• Earning trends: If you multi-app (a strategy many successful drivers use), Gridwise allows you to link all your gig platforms. You can view them on a single screen on your cell phone and see trends and patterns that earn you more.  
• When to drive: Every platform has its peak hours. The When to Drive tab on the Gridwise app tracks the most profitable times for you to drive any platform. 
• Where to drive: Every neighborhood has specific rideshare and food delivery needs. Gridwise tracks geographical demand for you. Check out the Gridwise Where to Drive tab to earn the maximum dollars. 

DoorDash drivers can save miles and gas when they pay attention to the Gridwise Where to Drive and When to Drive tabs. 

• Events. You’ll find the most current information for your region on the Gridwise app. Learn about sporting events, concerts, trade shows, exhibitions, and other happenings that generate rides. 
• Messaging. Is a baseball game running into extra innings? Has a football or soccer game gone into overtime? New developments bring a constant wave of opportunities for gig drivers. The Gridwise messaging function lets you know about real-time changes. 
• Weather info. Inclement weather is enough to make some drivers stay in, but consumers don’t want to venture out, either. They would rather order in. With Gridwise, you’ll know when to turn these times to your advantage. 
• Traffic alerts. For DoorDash drivers, traffic is always an issue. Folks want their food promptly, and they want it at the appropriate temperature. Rely on Gridwise traffic alerts to inform you of delays and route changes. 

Making a switch to rideshare later in the evening? The Gridwise app can solve the mystery of airport arrivals. 

• Airport status. Time to switch to rideshare? With Gridwise the airports are no longer a mystery. The Gridwise app displays arrival times and other vital information to help you maximize your time. 
• Information. Gridwise has a blog that includes the latest news on strategies and other opportunities for gig drivers. Learn about new legislation, car rental opportunities, benefits, and other information vital to your gig. 
• Contribute to the gig community. Gridwise anonymizes and aggregates the data collected by the Gridwise app. This allows Gridwise to provide analytics on earnings and trends that make you a better driver. 

Gridwise: The best tool for DoorDash drivers 

Veteran drivers founded Gridwise and their commitment has always been to making gig drivers more successful. They are always looking for new ways to give drivers the most pertinent, helpful, and accurate information. 

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Check out these Gridwise pages to learn more about the Gridwise mileage tracker:

• Download the Gridwise app (includes the Gridwise mileage tracker).
• Gridwise offers the best mileage tracking app for gig drivers
• The best business mileage tracking app
• The best mileage tracking app for delivery drivers

Data is key in the fast-paced world of quick-service restaurants (QSRs). As giants like McDonald's and Burger King vie for dominance in the delivery space, understanding the nuances of their performance across different platforms can provide crucial insights. 

This mini-blog presents two quick takeaways on delivery data that show how these QSRs are faring in the digital ordering landscape. These bite-sized insights offer a taste of the valuable information that can be gleaned from delivery analytics, potentially reshaping strategies in the competitive fast-food market.

McDonald’s and Burger King Delivery Data Insights

In Los Angeles, McDonald's accounts for a more significant share of Uber Eats deliveries than their share on Doordash. 

On the other hand, Burger King deliveries are longer in duration and over a slightly longer distance. 

Insights from Gridwise Analytics benefit QSR’s

Gridwise Analytics is a game-changer for gig platforms. It offers a unique understanding of market dynamics for quick-service restaurants (QSRs) striving to enhance their market share. By delving into specific data points, such as delivery patterns, this tool enables platforms to optimize routes, predict demand, and fine-tune marketing strategies with precision. 

The level of insight provided by Gridwise Analytics is not just about enhancing operational efficiency. It's about identifying lucrative opportunities that can boost driver and consumer satisfaction. This, in turn, leads to superior service delivery and a competitive edge in the fast-paced gig economy.

Discover more gig mobility insights

• Gig Worker Compensation: How Data Can Lead to Fair Legislation
• Understanding Gig Drivers: Investor Insights from Gridwise Analytics
• The Impact of Third-Party Food Delivery on Quick Service Restaurants