Delivery Tip Calculator
DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and more. What to tip and why it matters.
Quick rule of thumb
Minimum $3–$4 for small orders, or 15–20% — whichever is higher. Increase for bad weather, long distance, heavy orders, or stairs.
Enter a bill amount above to see the tip
How Much to Tip for Food Delivery
Delivery drivers are independent contractors on platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. They typically earn a base pay of $2–$4 per order plus your tip. A low or no tip may mean the order sits unaccepted longer, or goes to a driver who is further away.
Suggested Tip by Situation
- Standard order, short distance: $3–$5 or 15%, whichever is more
- Large order ($50+): 15–20% of the order total
- Long distance (5+ miles): Add $1–$2 extra
- Bad weather (rain, snow): Add $2–$5 as a courtesy
- Walk-up delivery (no elevator): Add $1–$2 per floor
- Exceptional communication or care: 20–25%
Does the App Fee Replace the Tip?
No. Service fees, delivery fees, and "expanded range fees" on DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub go to the platform — not the driver. The tip field in the app (or a cash tip at the door) is what reaches the courier directly.
Should I Tip Before or After Delivery?
Most apps prompt you to tip before delivery. You can adjust the tip afterwards on some platforms (e.g., Uber Eats allows changing within 1 hour). Tipping before delivery generally results in faster acceptance of your order.
Tipping on Grocery Delivery (Instacart, Amazon Fresh)
15–20% is the norm for grocery delivery. The shopper handles selecting, packing, and delivering your items — often a more complex job than restaurant delivery. For large orders, a flat tip of $10–$20 is appropriate.
FAQ — Delivery Tipping
How much should I tip on DoorDash?
DoorDash dashers earn a base pay per delivery plus 100% of your tip. A minimum of $3–$4 for small orders, or 15–20% for larger ones, is considered fair. DoorDash recommends a default of 15%.
How much should I tip on Uber Eats?
Uber suggests 15–20% as a default. Uber Eats couriers receive 100% of your tip. You can adjust the tip up to 1 hour after delivery.
Is it okay not to tip for delivery?
Not tipping is your right, but it directly reduces the courier's income. Drivers can see the tip before accepting an order — no tip or low tip may mean longer wait times. For adequate service, a minimum of $3–$4 is considerate.
Does the delivery fee go to the driver?
No. Delivery fees, service fees, and small order fees go to the platform. Only the tip field goes directly to the driver.