Be your own boss: Requirements to Start Delivering by Ebike in the US

Over the last five years, the annualized market growth of the Courier and Local Delivery Services industry has increased at an impressive average rate of 5.5% per annum*. With more people ordering their food and groceries via delivery, the space is rapidly expanding and expected to continue multiplying in the coming years.

As a result, organizations have placed great emphasis on creating positive work experiences for couriers, in order to ensure they have enough riders to meet market demand. There are an array of apps to choose from, including UberEats and DoorDash, which work towards facilitating flexible, safe and motivating lifestyles for their riders.

With each platform comes different perks, competitive advantages and maybe even discounts. Setting up an account tends to be a rather simple and efficient process, however there are usually a few regulatory steps and checks required to ensure the safety of riders and their consumers.

To help you get across what needs to be done before you start delivery riding, we put together this blog to essentially provide you with a general checklist required for most, if not all food delivery apps.

The guidelines we are providing are simply the most common requirements, but they may alter slightly depending on the platform or local government requirements that you are riding in.

How to set yourself up for delivery riding.

In the United States, most states acknowledge that electric bikes operating with a maximum speed of 28mph assisted by the motor, do not require a license to operate. For this reason, most e-bikes are treated by food delivery apps in the same way as traditional bikes, however you should double check this in accordance with your state regulations. Faster e-bikes may require licensing and insurance.

#1 ID Documents

First and foremost, delivery apps usually require copies of a few personal documents to verify your identity and set up your account accurately. When delivering via e-bike, you will be required to provide proof of a government-issued ID.

#2 Legal Requirements 

It is likely when creating your account you will be asked to present your social security number. This enables the company to run an efficient background screening prior to commencing work. This should be completed quickly and get you on your e-bike and earning money in no time.

When it comes to other legal requirements, these are primarily influenced by the state or territory in which you are based, so we highly recommend checking with the app you decide to go with.

#3 Age Requirements

To start riding with the delivery apps, you will likely be required to be 18 years or older.

#4 Additional Requirements

In order to fulfill your trips, you will need a smartphone, usually an iOS 13.6 or an Android 6 or above.

With delivering via bikes or electric bikes, some applications also have Bicycle Safety tests in place, in order to ensure you are safe and comfortable on the road.

If it is your first time handling food, they may additionally put in place Food Safety Modules in order to educate you on how to deliver safely and efficiently earning you the best ratings and tips.

Some businesses may provide you with safety equipment like helmets in order to keep you safe, but if not you will be required to purchase one yourself.

#5 Complete your Profile

Finally, make sure you complete your profile promoted by whichever delivery app you choose to ride with. Keep an eye on your inbox as they will likely reach out and get you situated.

Both you and the apps want to see you succeed and earn when and where you want, so they will usually complete your profile allowing you to start delivering in about five business days.

In order to sum this up, we put together a table of which apps require what…

For more information regarding requirements for each platform, and more specifically each state, visit the UberEats and DoorDash websites.

Electrify your trips

When you swap a bike for an electric bike you can complete more trips, more easily and safely with the electrically assisted motor. 

If you want to choose your own hours, be your own boss and start earning money by delivery riding via e-bike, Zoomo has you covered with a range of world class bikes built for delivery. Our e-bikes are built using the highest quality hardware and software, as well as manufactured in accordance with government regulations on speed and power for the safety of all road users.

By investing in a Zoomo bike you are investing in a high quality and legal e-bike that is built for your comfort and safety.

Check out Zoomo’s flexible payment options to get you up and earning to your most efficient and successful capacity.