Understanding the Fee Structure
Both DoorDash and Grubhub have various fees that affect your order's total cost. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you might encounter:
DoorDash Fees
- Delivery Fee: Varies by restaurant and location ($1.99-$5.99)
- Service Fee: 10-11% of order subtotal
- Small Order Fee: $2.50 for orders under $10
- DashPass: $9.99/month for free delivery and reduced service fees on orders over $12
Grubhub Fees
- Delivery Fee: Ranges from $0.99 to $7.99
- Service Fee: 5-10% of order subtotal
- Small Order Fee: $2 for orders under $10
- Grubhub+: $9.99/month for free delivery on orders over $12 and 10% cashback
Cost Comparison Example
| Platform | Order Subtotal | Delivery Fee | Service Fee | Small Order Fee | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DoorDash | $20.00 | $3.99 | $2.00 (10%) | $0.00 | $25.99 |
| Grubhub | $20.00 | $2.99 | $1.50 (7.5%) | $0.00 | $24.49 |
Money-Saving Strategies
Both Platforms
- Compare prices between services before ordering
- Look for promotional codes
- Order during off-peak hours
- Batch orders with friends to share delivery costs
- Use "Pickup" option to avoid delivery fees
Platform-Specific Tips
DoorDash:
- Join DashPass if ordering 2-3 times monthly
- Check "Deals" tab for restaurant promotions
Grubhub:
- Enable push notifications for special offers
- Utilize the "Perks" section
- Consider Grubhub+ for frequent orders
Additional Considerations
Promotions and Discounts
Both platforms frequently offer promotions and discounts. Check websites like RetailMeNot and Honey for current deals.
Hidden Costs
"The true cost of delivery extends beyond the obvious fees," notes restaurant industry analyst Jane Smith.
Additional expenses may include:
- Menu markup (15-30% higher than in-restaurant prices)
- Driver tips (recommended 15-20%)
- Surge pricing during peak hours
- Tax calculations on service fees
Restaurant Partnerships
Some restaurants have exclusive partnerships with one platform, affecting menu item availability and pricing. Compare the same restaurant on both platforms for potential price differences.
Environmental Impact
Consider that batch ordering can reduce:
- Carbon emissions
- Packaging waste
- Traffic congestion
Conclusion
The most cost-effective platform depends on:
- Your location
- Ordering frequency
- Average order size
- Restaurant selection preferences
For occasional users, comparing prices per order may suffice. Frequent users should consider subscription services and factor in restaurant selection and coverage area.
For more detailed information, visit DoorDash's official website and Grubhub's official website.