Grubhub vs. DoorDash: Choosing the Right Delivery App for Your Needs

Evaluating Convenience, Costs, Cuisine Variety, and Customer Experience in this comprehensive guide to answer the most asked question, Which is Better - Grubhub or Doordash?

Online food ordering and delivery has emerged as one of the most transformative services in the 21st century. Today, you can cherish the delicacy of your choice in minutes without even traveling a mile for it. Such immense convenience is the primary reason behind the rising number of people who order online. In fact, by 2028, 2.5 billion individuals are expected to use food-ordering apps.

Such a tremendous scope in the online food and grocery ordering market has attracted numerous players. However, DoorDash and Grubhub are some of the best food delivery apps in this industry. Thus, there is often a huge confusion amongst users about choosing between Grubhub or DoorDash.

Read this article till the end to get an all-around picture of the functioning and usability of these applications. It will allow you to determine the most ideal one in DoorDash vs Grubhub.

What is Grubhub?

Grubhub is an online food ordering and delivery platform. The Grubhub business model handles upwards of 715,000 daily orders and collaborates with over 365,000 restaurant affiliates across 4,000+ cities throughout the United States.

Established in 2004, this widely recognised company emerged as a digital alternative to traditional paper menus. In 2013, the company merged with Seamless' food delivery service, becoming a leading name in the food delivery industry. 

What is DoorDash?

DoorDash is a food delivery service company that operates primarily in the United States, Canada, and Australia. It enables customers to order food from a wide variety of local restaurants through its website or mobile app.

DoorDash boasts partnerships with a diverse range of restaurants. These restaurants span from popular chains to local favorites, facilitating deliveries via bikes or scooters. Additionally, it extends its services to grocery deliveries in select U.S. urban centers.

DoorDash vs Grubhub: A Quick Glance

Evaluating DoorDash and Grubhub: A User-Centric Comparison

When picking DoorDash or Grubhub, look at their delivery costs, the variety of food places, how easy their apps are to use, and the perks of joining. Each has special deals and strengths. Let’s have a deeper look!

1. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Ordering Cost and Process

The user experience while ordering the food is majorly influenced by its cost and process. Here's a comparison of Grubhub and DoorDash on this parameter:

Grubhub

Grubhub emerges as the most cost-effective choice for orders averaging around $50. It consistently presented the lowest average totals, particularly for orders hovering around the $50 mark.  For smaller to medium-sized orders, the cost ranges between $25 and $30. 

If you wish to order from Grubhub, you must follow the steps below:

• Open the app and input your street address.
• Toggle between "Delivery" or "Pickup" to view nearby restaurants.
• Browse through menus and add desired food items to your bag.
• Review your order by tapping "View order," specify if you need utensils, and add a tip for your delivery driver.
• Proceed by tapping "Continue to Checkout" to input your preferred payment method, verify your address, include any special instructions, and finalize your order.

DoorDash

DoorDash is considered the most economical option for small orders. Upon analyzing delivery bills, it became evident that DoorDash consistently offered the lowest total cost for orders under $20. 

Here are the steps you must follow to order from DoorDash:

• Log in to your account and select the restaurant of your choice.
• Browse the menu and select the things you want to order.
• Tap "Add to Order" for each selected item.
• Review your ordered items and total by tapping "View Cart."
• Proceed by tapping "Continue."
• Choose your preferred payment method, input any special instructions, and include a tip.
• Finally, tap "Place Order" to finalize and complete your order.

2. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Food Selection

When utilizing a food delivery service, you will likely seek out a menu that includes your preferred dishes. You can use these services for fast food delivery, vegan food items, or those late-night munchies as well. Here's what you will get with each one of these apps:

Grubhub

Grubhub provides a diverse range of food options. This comprises food from fast food outlets and local diners. The app categorizes these choices into sections such as "Affordable Options," "Quick Delivery," and "Local Favorites," “Fast-food delivery” or users can simply browse through all available restaurants.

DoorDash

DoorDash offers a wide selection of food options, including dishes from chain restaurants and convenience stores. Additionally, the features such as "Trending Now" make it stand out from Doordash alternatives. 

This allows users to observe real-time local ordering trends. When selecting a restaurant, customers can view the most commonly ordered items, which can be particularly beneficial when exploring unfamiliar cities while traveling.

The app is designed with various search options, categorized into sections such as "Try Something New," "Most Popular Local Restaurants," "Fastest Near You," and "Now on DoorDash."

3. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Delivery Fee

The standard delivery charges for both food delivery services are generally similar. However, this can fluctuate based on the restaurant selected and order timings. There are free food delivery coupons and cashbacks as well that can help customers avail themselves of free deliveries every now and then. Fees charged by delivery services like Doordash and Grubhub are as follows: 

Grubhub

One of the leading Doordash alternatives, Grubhub usually charges a delivery fee ranging from $5 to $6. Also, they apply a service fee of 2.9% of the order total. For example, on a $40 delivery order, you would pay $1.16 as a service fee and the delivery fee.

DoorDash

DoorDash's delivery fees vary depending on factors like the chosen restaurant and the time of day. Generally, DoorDash also charges a delivery fee ranging from $5 to $6. However, on the platform, you may also encounter a service fee of up to $3.

4. DoorDash vs Grubhub: Driver's Requirements

Both Grubhub and DoorDash have specific requirements for becoming a delivery driver on their platforms. Some of these requirements are similar. However, there are some key differences to consider. Here is a breakdown of the driver requirements for each platform:

Grubhub 

To become a Grubhub driver, you must have the following requirements:

• Must be at least 19 years old (or 21 if residing in Chicago or Las Vegas).
• Possess either an iPhone with iOS 11 or newer or an Android device running version 5.0 or higher.
• Must have access to any mode of transportation, such as a car, scooter, or bicycle (availability may vary by city).
• Hold a valid driver's license.
• Maintain auto insurance if operating a vehicle.
• Provide a Social Security number if delivering within the United States.
• Consent to undergo a background check

DoorDash 

A DoorDash driver must fulfill the following requirements:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Possess either an iPhone or Android smartphone.
• Have access to any mode of transportation, such as a car, scooter, or bicycle (availability may vary by city).
• Hold a valid driver's license.
• Maintain auto insurance if using a vehicle for delivery.
• Provide a Social Security number if delivering within the United States.
• Consent to undergo a background check conducted by DoorDash

Requirements to Deliver Alcohol

Delivery drivers for DoorDash and Grubhub can start as young as 18 or 19 years old, but individuals must be at least 21 years old to accept orders involving alcohol. 

This requirement is due to the need to present identification when picking up alcohol orders, making it impossible to fulfill such requests if underage. The age restrictions for alcohol orders may impact potential earnings for drivers.

Background Check

As part of the standard procedure for food delivery drivers, all applicants undergo a criminal background check. This check reviews any criminal convictions within the past seven years and also examines driving records. The following issues will result in disqualification:

• Accumulation of more than three moving violations
• Criminal history
• Offenses related to drugs and alcohol
• Sexual offenses
• A DUI listed on the driving record

5. Grubhub versus DoorDash: Signup Process

Signing up to become a driver for Grubhub and DoorDash follows a similar process. However, there are a few variations in each platform's approach:

Grubhub 

Signing up for DoorDash is a straightforward process. It is as follows: 

Step 1: Simply download the app and provide your personal information. 

Step 2: Upload your license and insurance card.

Step 3: Now, await the completion of your background check.

Step 4: Once cleared, proceed by following the partner delivery agreement, and you'll be ready to hit the road.

DoorDash 

You must follow the steps below to sign up with DoorDash effortlessly:

Step 1: Begin the application process with Grubhub.

Step 2: Follow the guided steps provided during the application.
.
Step 3: Note that you won't be able to create a username and password for the app until your background check is completed.

Step 4: Upon completing the application, await the background check clearance.

Step 5: Once cleared, you will proceed to create a username and password for the Grubhub app.

Step 6: Before commencing deliveries, participate in a brief orientation session mandated by Grubhub, which adds a more serious tone.

6. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Driver Pay and Pay Model

The remuneration offered by both DoorDash and Grubhub is generous. However, you must compare them thoroughly to ensure you choose the best one:

Grubhub

Grubhub drivers are classified as independent contractors and retain 100% of the tips for each order they deliver. Various factors that separate its earnings from the Grubhub alternatives are:

A. Mileage

Grubhub compensates drivers at a rate of $0.22 per mile for both the distance traveled to pick up the order and the distance to the drop-off location.

B. Time on the Road

Drivers are also paid for the time spent picking and delivering orders.

C. Tips

Drivers receive the tips left by customers on each order.

D. Special Offers

Grubhub offers drivers opportunities to earn extra income through "Missions," where they can achieve specific goals within a set time frame to unlock bonuses and participate in sweepstakes.

E. Average Price

On average, Grubhub drivers earn around $16 per hour.

DoorDash

The DoorDash driver pay structure comprises three main components:

A. Base Pay

Dashers receive a base pay for each delivery, determined by factors such as order completion time, delivery distance, and order popularity, among other drivers.

B. Tips

Drivers retain 100% of the tips customers leave on their orders.

C. Promotions

DoorDash offers two types of promotions: Peak Pay and Challenges. Peak Pay which occurs during busier times of the day and allows drivers to earn more for deliveries. The challenges involve completing a certain number of deliveries within a specific timeframe to earn additional money.

D. Average Price

DoorDash drivers earn an average of $19 per hour.

7. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Scheduling Your Hours

Both Grubhub and DoorDash are ideal for a part-time job. However, there is some difference in each one's criteria.

Grubhub 

Drivers are prompted to schedule blocks of time, and they are required to release these blocks as soon as they become unavailable. The app may limit scheduling access for consistently dropped shifts within 72 hours. 

Scheduling in advance grants priority access to deliveries, aiding in planning and earning potential. However, drivers can also log in during free time to check for available deliveries in their area.

DoorDash 

Drivers can schedule their shifts up to a week ahead or as close as an hour before they wish to work. Meal times tend to be the busiest, and for unscheduled hours, the "Dash Now" option is available. The app highlights areas with high demand in red on the map, ensuring ample opportunities for drivers.

8. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Driver Rewards

Usually, there are numerous rewards for Food Delivery App Customers. However, both DoorDash and GrubHub offer special recognition programs for highly rated drivers, akin to Airbnb's Superhost status, which can enhance their chances of receiving order requests.

Grubhub 

GrubHub's Driver Recognition program assesses delivery stats for the previous 30 days weekly. But this begins after completing 20 deliveries. 

Higher-rated drivers also receive priority access to scheduled blocks and larger catering orders. However, elite driver status is not required to enjoy GrubHub's driver perks and discounts, which include a 15% savings on oil changes.

DoorDash 

The Top Dasher Program allows top-performing drivers to dash 24/7. While basic drivers can also deliver outside scheduled windows, this feature may be temporarily disabled during periods of high driver activity.

Qualification for the Top Dasher program requires the following:

• A customer rating of 4.7 or higher
• An acceptance rate exceeding 70%
• A completion rate of at least 95%
• Completion of 100 deliveries within the past month
• At least 200 completed lifetime deliveries

Drivers must requalify monthly until the last day of each month to meet the requirements. Qualified drivers begin enjoying Top Driver benefits on the 2nd day of the following month. Regardless of status, all drivers can access financial and vehicle discounts, such as car maintenance and gas savings.

9. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Driver Payment Methods

The payment frequency of both Grubhub and DoorDash may vary. Here are the ways both apps pay their drivers:

Grubhub 

Grubhub delivery partners have convenient access to their earnings by connecting a checking account. Here are its payment methods:

A. Direct Deposit

By default, drivers receive payments via direct deposit into a linked checking account every Thursday.

B. Instant Deposit

Drivers can instantly transfer up to $500 daily to a linked checking account or bank debit card with this feature. This service is free for those with a Chase Bank account. Otherwise, there is a fee of $0.50 per transfer.

DoorDash 

DoorDash offers three payment methods for drivers:

A. Weekly Payments

Weekly payments are deposited directly into the driver's linked banking account on Wednesday nights.

B. Fast Pay

Fast Pay allows drivers in the U.S. and Canada to receive daily payments of up to $500. However, it incurs a $1.99 fee per transaction. Drivers must complete 20 deliveries and be with DoorDash for at least 14 days to access Fast Pay.

C. DasherDirect

DasherDirect is a program offered by DoorDash to waive the instant payment fee. It requires enrollment and approval. This program provides a free prepaid debit card through Stride Bank (Member FDIC), which automatically loads earnings and tips.

It can be used for purchases and cash withdrawals at 20,000 fee-free Allpoint ATMs. However, it does not support balance transfers to linked bank accounts or online bill pay.

10. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Driver Support

Both platforms offer support resources to assist with urgent matters and standard account adjustments.

Grubhub 

• GrubHub for Drivers partners with RapidSOS to provide phone and text safety services. Here, the trained agents call 911 when first responder assistance is required.
• Live phone and chat support are available to resolve immediate order issues.

DoorDash 

• DoorDash Dasher Support offers 24/7 chat and telephone support for immediate assistance. 
• Drivers can access non-urgent resources through the online dashboard.
• The Dasher app includes SafeDash tools, allowing drivers to contact an ADT agent if they encounter potentially unsafe situations. This service can also notify 911 in emergencies.

11. Grubhub vs DoorDash: Accepting and Rejecting Orders

Not giving the drivers the flexibility to accept and reject orders can be very inconvenient. However, giving such a choice is often exploited. 

Therefore, to avoid unnecessary rejection of orders, both DoorDash and Grubhub offer incentives to drivers with high acceptance rates.

Grubhub 

Grubhub employs a tiered program comprising Partner, Pro, and Premier levels. Advancement in tiers unlocks benefits such as preferred scheduling and access to higher-paying orders. Starting as a Partner, drivers gain third-tier access to scheduling. 

To progress to the Pro level, a minimum acceptance rate of 90% is necessary, while reaching Premier requires 95%. Ratings are calculated based on delivery performance over the past 30 days. Moreover, new drivers must complete 20 deliveries to attain a tier.

DoorDash 

Although there is no official minimum acceptance rate, a rate of at least 70% is required to qualify for DoorDash's Top Dasher program. Participants in this program enjoy the flexibility to dash at any time, regardless of demand.

Final Verdict: Which is Better, Doordash or Grubhub?

There is no winner between DoorDash vs Grubhub, as both offer numerous benefits. Therefore, choosing the ideal one between the two is not possible, as it explicitly depends on your preferences. 

You must consider judging the above apps that deliver food based on diverse parameters per your usage. This will allow you to choose one of these best food delivery apps. You should also try both of these applications, as practical experience surpasses all others.