TipMath

How much to tip a delivery driver

15–20% of the order, never less than $3–$5

A delivery fee or service fee is not a tip: it usually goes to the restaurant or the app. For food delivery, tip 15–20% of the food total, and at least $3–$5 on small orders.

Tip
Split between
1
person

Total to pay

$0.00

Bill$0.00
Tip (20%)$0.00
Total$0.00

By type of delivery

  • Pizza delivery: 15–20%, minimum $3–$5.
  • DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub: 15–20% of the food subtotal. App tips shown before checkout influence which driver accepts the order.
  • Grocery delivery (Instacart and similar): 10–20% of the order, or at least $5; more for heavy items, stairs or many bags.
  • Furniture and appliance delivery: $10–$20 per person for a heavy or assembled item.

Go higher when

The weather is bad, you live far from the restaurant, you ordered at peak dinner rush, or the order needed stairs or a long walk.

Questions people ask

Does the delivery fee go to the driver?

Usually not in full. On most apps and restaurant sites the delivery fee covers the platform or restaurant. Only the tip is guaranteed to reach the driver.

How much to tip on a $30 delivery order?

$5–$6 (about 15–20%). In bad weather, $7–$8.

Should I tip for curbside or takeout pickup?

Optional. A few dollars is appreciated if staff brought the food to your car.

Not sure what to tip? Ask.

Describe the situation and get a straight answer. AI-generated from common US norms: a guide, not a rule.

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