You own a vehicle, and you’re looking to turn it into a money-generating asset. You’ve heard that being a delivery driver for companies like Amazon Flex can help you earn some extra cash to pay your bills or add to your savings.
However, you’re probably wondering if becoming an Amazon Flex driver is worth it. You want to make sure that you're getting the most out of your time and effort. After all, there are many ways to make money online.
So, what do Amazon Flex driver reviews say?
In this blog post, we'll explore how Amazon Flex works, which can help you decide if driving for Amazon is right for you. We’ve seen mixed reviews, and we wanted to make the process easier for you by doing exhaustive research on reliable sites and independent review platforms.
We'll talk about the pros and cons of Amazon Flex so you'll get an idea of what other drivers have experienced.
We'll also give you some tips on how to make the most out of your Amazon Flex driving gig.
By the end of this post, you should have a good idea of whether being an Amazon Flex driver is worth your time or not. Keep on reading so you won’t miss the opportunity to succeed with Amazon Flex.
What is Amazon Flex?
Amazon Flex is a delivery gig where you can use your own vehicle to deliver packages for Amazon as a way of earning extra income.
Instead of using logistics companies like UPS or FedEx, Amazon is letting individual vehicle owners sign up to deliver Amazon orders.
Aside from Amazon.com packages, you can also be assigned to deliver Amazon Fresh, Prime Now, and packages from other third-party stores.
An Amazon Flex job, as the name suggests, is quite flexible because you can choose the schedule when you want to work. These schedules are called “blocks,” which you can reserve in advance or within the same day, at least 45 minutes before the schedule.
Amazon delivery blocks are typically two to four hours long. You can also choose how many Amazon Flex blocks you want to work on in a week. There's no minimum or a maximum number of Amazon Flex blocks that you have to work on.
Amazon Flex driver requirements: What do you need to work for Amazon Flex?
To qualify as an Amazon Flex driver, you need to meet the following requirements:
- You're at least 21 years old.
- You own a vehicle. Any vehicle is accepted to deliver Prime Now orders while you need a 4-door, mid-sized sedan or a larger vehicle like a truck with a covered bed to deliver Amazon.com orders. Motorcycles or bikes are not accepted.
- You should have the required insurance for delivering packages in your area and be able to show proof of this insurance. As an addition to your personal insurance, which you pay for, Amazon will provide Amazon Commercial Auto Insurance Policy at no cost.
- A government-issued U.S. driver's license with your photo with details matching your info on the app
- A valid Social Security Number
- A photo of yourself
- A smartphone with Android 6.0 or newer or an iPhone 6s or newer. Your smartphone should have a 2 GB or higher memory, a camera with flash, GPS location services, and SIM Card.
- You must pass a background check.
How to become an Amazon Flex driver
Here’s what you need to do to apply as an Amazon Flex driver:
Step 1: If Amazon Flex is available in your area, download the Amazon Flex app.
Step 2: Create a new Amazon account, or you can also use your existing Amazon account (if you have one) and sign up for Amazon Flex.
Step 3: Follow the instructions and submit all the requirements.
Step 4: Wait for 2 to 7 business days for the background check. You will receive a notification if you pass.
Step 5: Once you're accepted, you can start working. Review videos on best practices and provide your delivery preferences in the app.
How long does it take to become an Amazon Flex driver?
It usually takes around 2 to 7 business days for Amazon Flex to complete your background check. Many drivers say that you can expect to start working within a week or two after you've signed up.
In some cases, when there are discrepancies in the documents and information that you've submitted, this process could take more than two weeks.
If Amazon Flex is not actively recruiting in your area, meaning there are too many drivers already, you may have to wait until there's an opening. Amazon Flex will then contact you via the app or email to let you know that you can start driving for them.
How much can you make in a day as an Amazon Flex driver?
According to the Amazon Flex website, most drivers earn $18 to $25 per hour. Take note that this estimate is BEFORE your expenses and taxes. Reddit users who drive for Amazon Flex support this, saying that most of their blocks pay $18 to $20 per hour.
There's also a disclaimer on the Amazon Flex website that actual earnings will depend on a number of factors, such as the following:
- Location – Amazon Flex is available in over 50 cities across the U.S. Delivery rates vary depending on where you're located.
- Tips – You can keep 100% of the tips customers give you. This is usually a significant factor that can boost your earnings.
- The number of Amazon Flex blocks you work – You can work as many or as few Amazon Flex blocks as you want each week. The more Amazon Flex blocks you work, the more money you can potentially make.
- Efficiency – How long it takes you to complete deliveries can also affect your earnings. Take note that if you exceed the time in your reserved block, you will not get extra pay.
How can you get paid as an Amazon Flex driver?
You can get paid twice a week via direct deposit. Many drivers find the twice-a-week payment system convenient as it allows them to have a more regular cash flow.
Does Amazon Flex pay for your gas?
No, Amazon Flex will not reimburse you for gas fees and other car maintenance costs. You're considered an independent contractor, which means that you're responsible for paying for your own expenses.
What pays more, Amazon Flex or Uber?
Based on the hourly rates, Amazon Flex typically pays higher than Uber. An average Uber driver earns around $13 to $15 per hour only, compared to Amazon Flex’s $18 to $25 per hour.
How does Amazon Flex work for the driver?
Amazon Flex works a little differently than other delivery gigs because you're not delivering or accepting one-off jobs. Instead, you're scheduled for a delivery block where you'll commit 2 to 4 hours of your time to make Amazon deliveries.
Step 1: Reserve a delivery block
When you open the Amazon Flex app, you'll see a list of available delivery blocks in your area. You can then claim any delivery block that fits your schedule. Once you claim a block, it's yours for that day and time slot.
You will see the expected earnings and other details regarding that block. But why do some Amazon flex blocks pay more? The reason is that some blocks are during high-demand times or cover difficult-to-reach delivery areas.
Step 2: Pick up the deliveries
You will need to pick up the packages at the designated Amazon location. Some drivers advise that you arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you can start your block on time.
Step 3: Make the deliveries
Once you have all the packages, it's time to make the deliveries. Follow the delivery instructions and route provided by Amazon Flex.
Step 4: End your block
When your Amazon Flex block is finished, you'll need to return any undelivered packages to the Amazon warehouse or, if the location is closed, before 10 AM the next day.
Amazon Flex pros and cons according to driver reviews
Working as an Amazon Flex driver has its advantages and disadvantages. We have summarized the common feedback from drivers on Reddit, Indeed, Quora, and other review sites to give you an idea of what to expect.
Pros
Here are some of the benefits of working as an Amazon Flex driver:
- Flexible Schedule
Amazon Flex drivers appreciate the fact that they can choose their own work hours. You can work as few or as many Amazon Flex blocks you want each week. This is perfect for those who need a flexible job to fit around other commitments.
If you're a student, a parent, or you just need to earn extra money but you don’t have the time or energy to work a full 8-hour job, Amazon Flex is a great option. It allows you to schedule your work around your life rather than the other way around.
- Quick Way to Supplement Your Regular Income
Amazon Flex is a great way to earn some extra money to supplement your regular salary. For instance, just taking one 4-hour block a week with an average rate of $72 can earn you an extra income of $288 a month. Because Amazon Flex also pays drivers twice a week via direct deposit, it is a good option if you need to make money ASAP for emergencies.
- Guaranteed Payment per Delivery Block
With Amazon Flex, you’re guaranteed to earn the listed amount per delivery block that you reserve. For example, if a 4-hour delivery block is worth $72, then you will be guaranteed to earn that when you complete all deliveries, plus the tips you receive from customers.
Many Amazon Flex drivers like this set-up better because you don't have to book gigs in between deliveries. Unlike other delivery gigs, such as Uber Eats or DoorDash, there's also less guesswork on how much you can earn in a 3 or 4-hour period.
- Earn Above Minimum Wage
Many side hustles pay below minimum wage, but this is not the case with Amazon Flex. As you can earn $18 to $25 per hour before expenses, this is well above minimum wage in most states.
- One Pick Up Location for the Entire Block
When you're driving for Amazon Flex, you'll only need to go to one pick-up location for your entire shift. Many drivers see this as an upside in contrast to other delivery gigs where you might have to drive all over the city picking up food from different restaurants.
This is also convenient if you prefer not to deal with multiple restaurant or store staff throughout the hours you're working. Drivers also said that going on one pick-up location for all the packages saves them on gas and driving time.
If you're wondering how good Amazon Flex vs Instacart is, then Amazon Flex is simpler in that you just need to pick the packages and deliver them to customers—you don’t need to shop for the items as with Instacart.
- Minimal Requirements
While Amazon Flex will require you to pass a background check and submit requirements, as well as proof of identity, this is not much different from other employers.
In terms of skills, drivers share that as long as you know how to drive and can carry the packages, you should be good to go. Amazon will provide you with all the information you need to make the deliveries.
Cons
Here are some drawbacks to Amazon Flex:
- You Have to Cover Your Own Expenses
As Amazon Flex drivers are considered independent contractors, you’ll be responsible for your own expenses. This includes gas, vehicle maintenance, and wear and tear on your car.
With gas prices rising, this can be a significant expense, and Amazon Flex drivers need to factor this into their earnings. If you’re driving a vehicle that guzzles up a lot of gas and isn’t fuel-efficient, Amazon Flex may not be the best option for you.
- It Can Be Difficult to Reserve Blocks that Fit Your Schedule
Many Reddit users shared that the availability of blocks depends on your delivery location. In some areas, it can get really competitive with so many Amazon Flex drivers competing for blocks.
Drivers also noticed that blocks are posted randomly, so you'll need to check the Amazon Flex app frequently for updates. This can be frustrating if you're trying to plan your week in advance and you're not able to snag the blocks that fit your schedule.
- No Guaranteed Income If You Can't Reserve a Block
If you don't get a delivery block or there’s nothing available in your area, this means you also can't earn. This can be frustrating if you're depending on Amazon Flex to help you cover your bills or other expenses.
- Long Drives Are Not Worth the Time
Some Amazon Flex drivers shared that if the delivery location takes you very far from your home, then driving long distances for just one or two hours of earnings isn't worth the time or effort.
- You Have to Pay Your Own Taxes
As an independent contractor, you will also be responsible for paying your own taxes. Amazon Flex drivers don’t have taxes withheld from their earnings like traditional employees do.
This means that you need to set aside money throughout the year to ensure that you have enough to cover your tax bill come April. This is something you need to factor into your overall earnings.
- There Are Safety Risks When Working As A Delivery Driver
Working as a delivery driver has its risks. Because you have to drive and you're always on the road, that puts you at a higher risk for accidents. There have also been reports of Amazon Flex drivers being robbed or attacked while on the job.
Amazon Flex Locations
At the moment, Amazon Flex is available in over 50 cities in the United States.
Some of the actively recruiting cities in 2022 are:
- St. Louis, MO
- Boston, MA
- Cincinnati, OH
- Salt Lake City, UT
To see the full list of cities, download the app or check out their website: Amazon Flex Recruiting Cities
Tips to Make Good Money as an Amazon Flex Driver
Are there any techniques Amazon Flex drivers can use to make more money? Luckily, there are! Here are some Amazon Flex tips from current and former drivers:
- Always Check the App for Available Blocks
Checking the app frequently is the best way to increase your chances of getting a block. Amazon Flex drivers have reported that blocks are posted sporadically and without any pattern. So, if you're hoping to snag a block that fits your schedule, you'll need to check the app often.
- Track Your Miles and Expenses to Save on Taxes
As an independent contractor, you will be responsible for paying your own taxes. Amazon Flex drivers can track your expenses like gas and vehicle maintenance, so you can deduct these costs come tax time.
- Use a Fuel Efficient Car to Save on Gas
If you're driving your own car for Amazon Flex, make sure it's fuel-efficient. Amazon Flex drivers can save a lot of money on gas by driving a car that doesn't consume too much fuel. This is important to factor in because, as an Amazon Flex driver, you are responsible for paying your own gas expenses upfront.
- Go For Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Orders
If you can deliver for Amazon Fresh, this is usually a better gig because there’s a higher chance of getting tips from customers. As with any delivery gig, tips can make a huge difference in your earnings.
Other Jobs Like Amazon Flex
Multi-apping is the practice of using several apps at the same time for delivery gig workers. Signing up for multiple delivery apps increases your chances of getting more gigs in your area and lowers the idle time between gigs.
Amazon Flex drivers can make more money by multi-apping with other delivery apps including:
- Roadie – This app was designed as an “on-the-way” delivery app where you can pick up and deliver packages on your usual route to your home or workplace. You can choose a one-off job instead of working for an entire block like Amazon Flex.
- Instacart – Mostly focused on grocery delivery. The difference is that the delivery person will also be responsible for shopping for the groceries, unlike in Amazon Flex, where you only pick up the orders.
- Postmates, Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash – Food delivery apps where you pick up food orders from restaurants and other establishments. These are very popular because of the high tip potential.
Final Thoughts: Is Amazon Flex Worth It?
Whether or not Amazon Flex is worth it really depends on your situation. If you need a flexible gig that allows you to make extra cash quickly, then Amazon Flex is worth considering.
But can Amazon Flex be a full-time job? This depends on your delivery area. If there are only a few Amazon Flex drivers in your city and you can reserve multiple blocks in a day, then this can be a good option to sustain your monthly expenses compared to a minimum wage job. But there’s still no guarantee that Amazon Flex will have consistent delivery blocks available for you to grab.
Overall, we believe that Amazon Flex is an ideal side hustle for people looking to have a side gig that can work within their existing schedule. However, relying on it as your only source of income might not be wise or reliable.
Aidan has been writing about personal finance for over 6 years. Prior to this, he worked as a Corporate Finance Analyst where he specialized in Due Diligence, Company Valuations and more. He is a CFA charterholder.
