DoorDash is a popular food delivery service known for providing customers with their favorite food and grocery items delivered straight to their door. However, something new is happening at DoorDash to provide EVEN more convenience for customers, especially when dealing with online returns. DoorDash, as of 2023, offers package pickup options to help customers gain back more time in their day. If you’re interested in learning more about DoorDash’s latest package pickup feature, keep reading.

What’s the History of the DoorDash Return Service?

As of January 4, 2023, DoorDash is offering a new package pickup service.

DoorDash customers can now request a Dasher to pick up their prepaid packages and then drop them off at a nearby carrier (any UPS, FedEx, or USPS store).

This new feature allows DoorDash customers to easily return their packages without having to step outside their homes.

How Does It Work? Costs?

Standard DoorDash users pay a flat fee of $5, and DashPass members pay just $3 to take advantage of this new Package Pickup feature.

Here’s how the Package Pickup works on DoorDash:

1. Select the Packages hub on the top of the DoorDash homepage and then select the delivery carrier (UPS, USPS, or FedEx) you’re using to ship your package.

2. Then, prepare your package(s) for shipping. You can ship off a total of 5 packages to send off. Be sure to attach your prepaid shipping label. If you are shipping with a QR code, you can send the QR code to the Dasher via the app.

3. Once all your packages have been fully packaged, request your package pickup and a Dasher will be assigned to your order and pick up your packages.

4. After your Dasher has dropped off your packages, you should receive a confirmation photo that your packages have been successfully dropped off at the provided carrier location.

See Also: What’s a UPS Access Point and Why You Should Care

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Number of Returns They’ll Pick Up?

Yes, a Dasher can pickup anywhere from 1 to 5 return boxes.

If you have more than 5 separate boxes you need to return, consider requesting multiple Dashers to return all your boxes using DoorDash’s Package Pickup feature.

Does a Dasher Pick Up Your Return Or a Courier?

A “Dasher” will pick up your packages and deliver them to the shipping carrier you selected on the DoorDash app.

The courier does not pick up and return your packages– just Dashers through the DoorDash app.

Most Dashers will take them to a UPS Store or USPS drop-off “access point” or drop box.

Will The Service Work for Rural Addresses?

Technically, yes, the DoorDash Package Pickup features should work virtually anywhere, including rural addresses.

However, keep in mind that if you live in a rural area, there are likely FEWER Dashers available to pick up and return your boxes.

Therefore, while the Package Pickup feature will work in rural areas, you may have a more difficult time (have to wait longer) to have your packages picked up and returned.

Does It Work on Amazon Returns?

Yes.

Since Amazon uses UPS for all its returns, you absolutely can use the DoorDash service to pickup up your returns.

I’m ALL over this right after Christmas when I typically have a ton of Amazon packages to get back to Mr. Bezos.

See Also: Does Amazon Deliver on Sunday? Here’s the Dealio

So….Is This Service Worth The Hassle?

Depends.

If you’re using the pickup service for just 1 package, not worth the $5 in most cases.

But if it’s after Christmas and you’re super busy, and you need to get some Amazon returns in the mail, it’s worth it, at least for my busy family.

Have Other Delivery Services Tried This?

Yes, DoorDash is not the first delivery service to offer package pickup services.

Uber offers Uber Connect which is a same-day delivery service where customers can return packages through the Uber app without having to leave their homes.

Shyp is another delivery service that sends a delivery person straight to your home to pick up and return your packages for you.

While each delivery service has slight variations from service to service, in general, all the delivery services work the same by

1. you request a package pickup order via the app

2. your packages are picked up by a Dasher (or whatever service you use) that are then returned to the selected carrier.

Ask the Reader: Have you used this DoorDash package pickup service? What was your experience and would you recommend it to others?

By Kyle James

If you’re anything like me, I cannot function without having a strong cup of joe in the morning. I despise the mornings I wake up to find I’m out of K-cups. Rather than driving to the grocery store or my local Starbucks to get my caffeine fix, I was curious to see if I could enjoy my favorite Starbucks Salted Caramel Cold Brew without leaving my house. This led me to look into Starbucks delivery service options. If you’re looking to shell out the big bucks and treat yourself to your favorite Starbucks drink delivered straight to your home, this can be a convenient option for those willing to pay for it.

Does Starbucks Use Any Delivery Services?

Yes.

According to the Starbucks website, they do offer delivery services using the Uber Eats app or DoorDash app.

It’s important to note Starbucks ONLY delivers via these two delivery apps as of now.

Therefore, if you’re a fan of GrubHub, Postmates, or another food delivery app, you WON’T be able to order from Starbucks through these apps.

How Does Starbucks Delivery Work?

Since you can only order Starbucks delivery exclusively through the Uber Eats or DoorDash app, here are the steps you need to follow to get your favorite mocha latte straight to your doorstep or place of work.

1. Download the Uber Eats app or DoorDash app onto your phone.

2. Navigate to Starbucks on the app and verify that delivery is available in your area.

3. Next, simply select the items you wish to order.

4. Before checking out, be sure to look for any Uber Eats or DoorDash promo codes to use. (more on this later)

5. While checking out, provide your address, as well as any extra instructions for your delivery driver if necessary (gate number, office/apartment number, etc.).

6. Pay and wait for your Starbucks delivery to arrive.

Can I Use the Starbucks App or Website To Get Delivery?

No.

Unfortunately, you cannot get Starbucks delivery straight off their app or website.

You must order your Starbucks delivery via the Uber Eats or DoorDash app.

However, you can use your Starbucks app to order ahead and pick-up in store or via the drive-thru.

So, if your jonesing for Starbucks delivered right to your doorstep, you’ll have to go through a third-party service like Uber Eats or DoorDash.

See Also: 9 Smart Ways to “Hack” the Starbucks Rewards Program 

What Are The Benefits Of Using a Starbucks Delivery Service?

Ordering Starbucks via Uber Eats or DoorDash does come with its perks, including:

1. Convenience: The efficiency to order Starbucks and not have to get changed, drive there, wait in line yourself, and drive home is a major advantage.

2. Time-Saver: Similarly, you can save valuable time and focus on completing other tasks without taking time out of your day to go to Starbucks yourself.

3. Easier: Have you ever felt anxious ordering a large order in person or at the drive-thru? With just a couple of clicks, you can effortlessly order all the Starbucks items you want… and then some.

Therefore, if you are willing to shell out a little extra cash, the convenience factor of getting Starbucks delivered cannot be beaten.

What Are the Associated Fees and Additional Costs?

Sadly, all good things tend to come at a higher price.

Expect to pay additional costs for app service fees, delivery fees, and of course a tip for your delivery driver.

These fees are in addition to the amount you’ll be spending on your actual Starbucks order.

Expect to pay the following delivery fees ordering Starbucks delivery:

• Uber Eats: $2.49 delivery fee
• DoorDash: $4.99 delivery fee

Be on the lookout for promo codes/special offers and coupons for free delivery or discounts sent to your inbox as effective ways to cut costs.

See Also: The 7 Starbucks Menu Hacks That’ll Make You Feel REALLY Smart

Is The Full Menu Available for Starbuck Delivery?

No.

According to the Starbucks website, “select items are currently unavailable for Starbuck delivery”.

They claim they do this to maintain their “consistency”, whatever that means.

Unfortunately, they don’t stipulate what drinks or food items are NOT available.

If you know, drop the information in the comments, thanks.

Any Hacks to Save Some Money?

Yes, glad you asked.

When ordering Starbucks with Uber Eats for the first time, use coupon code COFFEE4U at checkout.

You’ll score $5 off your first 2 orders.

You gotta love free Starbucks.

Can I Customize my Order on Uber Eats or DoorDash?

Yes.

You can still customize your Starbucks order even if you order via a delivery service.

But if you want to get really nutty with your order, and maybe get something off the Starbucks secret menu, you’ll be better off walking in and talking to a Barista as you might need to explain the ingredients.

How Do I Pay For my Starbucks Delivery Order?

You pay for your Starbucks delivery order on the third-party delivery service app itself.

After you’ve selected your items, simply check out, add your debit/credit card information (if you are using the app for the first time), and your card will be charged.

Can I Still Collect Reward Stars on Delivery Orders?

No.

Unfortunately, since you are ordering via a third-party app, not the Starbucks app itself, you cannot collect Starbucks Stars OR redeem your Stars for free drinks or food.

Ask the Reader: Do you ever jump through the hoops required to get Starbucks delivered or is it simply easier to visit in-person?

By Kyle James

Seeing that Costco is a warehouse club, and often follows a different set of rules, it has many shoppers wondering if Costco delivers perishable groceries (and non-perishables) to your home? Well, I’m here to set the record straight and answer all of your questions so you can easily setup your next same-day Costco grocery delivery order and have it sent directly to your front door. I hope this information clears up any confusion you had and makes your life just a little bit easier.

How Does Costco Grocery “Online Delivery” Work?

Costco Grocery is a Same-Day online grocery delivery service powered by Instacart.

Essentially, you just shop the Costco Grocery site and make a list of everything you want delivered directly to your front door.

Once you’re done with your grocery list, you simply submit it and it gets assigned to an Instacart personal shopper in your area.

Also, when checking out, you select the exact delivery window that works for you as you need to be home to accept the delivery.

What Does It Cost to Use This Delivery Service?

Costco members can use Instacart’s delivery service for free, BUT….

Items you buy via Costco Grocery will have a slight markup compared to the “in-warehouse price”.

Download the Costco app on your smartphone and do a quick price comparison with Costco Grocery on your computer to see what the actual markup is.

A good rule of thumb seems to be 5-10% higher prices using Costco same-day grocery delivery.

Plus, you should always give a tip to your personal shopper, especially if they go out of their way to find substitute products for you.

Exactly What Items Will Instacart Deliver from Costco?

Instacart will deliver all the perishable items that Costco sells.

Think things like perishable groceries, meats, produce, and seafood.

They’ll also deliver non-perishables like canned goods, healthcare items, pet food, electronics, books, beverages, and snack foods.

They’ll even deliver alcohol and bakery items.

For alcohol purchases, you’ll need to verify your age before you add booze to your shopping list.

See Also: 4 Things to Know Before Buying Alcohol from Costco

Will the Costco Pharmacy Also Deliver?

Yes.

Costco will happily deliver your meds from the Pharmacy independent of Instacart.

This means Costco will mail your pharmacy items themselves and they will NOT be picked up by your personal Instacart shopper.

See Also: 8 Must-Knows Before Using the Costco Pharmacy

Do I Have to Be a Costco Member to Get Grocery Delivery?

Yes.

You must be a current Costco member in order to use the Instacart same-day delivery service.

See Also: No Costco Membership? 8 Things You Can STILL Do In the Warehouse

What is the Minimum Order Amount to Qualify?

For Same-Day Delivery, powered by Instacart, you need to order at least $35.

For 2-Day Delivery, you need to order at least $75 worth of merchandise to get free delivery.

What If I Don’t Need the Item Today? 

If you need items like coffee, toilet paper, laundry detergent and other non-perishable BUT don’t need it right away, you’ll want to opt for Costco’s 2-Day Delivery by shopping on the regular Costco website.

The benefit of shopping this way is you DON’T get hit by a delivery fee when you order at least $75.

See Also: 6 Ways Shopping on Costco.com Differs From the Costco Warehouse

What is “2-Day Delivery” from Costco Grocery?

Just to clarify, this is the Costco 2-Day Delivery that I talked about above.

Great option when shopping for non-perishables as you won’t get hit with delivery fees on $75 or more.

What Happens If Costco is Out-Of-Stock on an Item?

This where things get kinda cool.

If your personal shopper finds that one of your items is out-of-stock, they’ll actually reach out to you via text or a phone call to discuss a substitution.

If there isn’t a suitable substitution they’ll simply refund you the money for that item.

How Late In the Day Can I Create my Grocery List?

It simply depends on the availability of personal Instacart shoppers in your area.

So if there are less shoppers in your area, the cut off time may be sooner than in large metropolitan areas.

When using Costco Grocery, you’ll be able see what dates and times are available for your order during checkout and plan accordingly.

It will provide two hour windows based on availability.

If you live in a small town and you’re logging on between 3 – 5 p.m., you might have to wait until the following day to get your Costco order delivered to your front door.

Keep in mind that Costco warehouses close at 8 p.m. in most locations.

Ask the Reader: Have you ever taken advantage of the same-day Costco Grocery delivery service? Would you recommend it and why? Please let me know in the comments. 

By Kyle James