DoorDash is launching a new “Package Pickup” service, allowing users to request a delivery person to pick up prepaid packages from their home and drop them off at a UPS, FedEx, or USPS location. The feature, which was introduced as part of a small beta test in March 2022, is now available for a fee of $5 for standard users or $3 for DashPass members.
This new service is part of a larger trend of delivery apps expanding beyond just food delivery. Apps like DoorDash can now deliver prescriptions, convenience store items, and even items from Facebook Marketplace to your doorstep. This expansion is a way for these services to diversify their revenue streams while also providing delivery people with additional ways to earn money through the platform.
How to Use DoorDash’s Package Pickup Service?
One of the main benefits of DoorDash’s package pickup service is that it allows users to avoid having to go to the post office or shipping location. To use the service, users simply need to select the Packages tab on the DoorDash homepage, choose the carrier corresponding to their package, or search for “package” in the app. Once their packages are ready with prepaid shipping labels attached, users can send the QR code to the delivery person through the DoorDash app. The delivery person will then drop off the package at the designated store and send a confirmation photo. To encourage adoption, DoorDash is also offering the first pickup for free in January.
This is not the first time a delivery service has offered package pickup and shipping options. On-demand shipping startup Shyp offered a similar service in 2015, and Uber Connect has been available since 2020. However, DoorDash aims to stand out by allowing users to use a familiar app to ship packages without having to leave their homes.