DoorDash Schedule vs Dash Now: When you need to use them

For DoorDash drivers, the choice between scheduling shifts and jumping in at the spur of the moment is a thing…although only a thing when you find yourself in a market that allows it.

Either way, thanks to DoorDash Schedule and Dash Now feature.

However, knowing exactly how these two features work and what differentiates them can be confusing. This article will aim to dissect this.

How Does DoorDash Schedule Work?

As a driver, scheduling shifts is typically the default in most locations, as without them you won’t be able to dash.

When you schedule a shift, you’re basically reserving a time slot out of the available shifts DoorDash provides in your location. How long you’re able to schedule your shifts here would depend on a couple of factors such as the time you schedule the shift, the population of drivers in your area, etc.

Basically, the idea behind scheduling is to let Doordash to know what date and time you’d be active and make a proper plan. This is done to create a way to handle the high driver population.

Making a schedule is also typically easy.

All you need to do is to access the schedule tab on the mobile app which loads you up to a list of available schedules for the next week.

Each schedule will indicate the date, start and end times, and the designated area. You can tap on any time slot that suits your preference and schedule.

And when it’s time for the day you schedule, you just need to log into the app and tap on the “Dash” button. Make sure you’re in the scheduled area before you attempt to start your Dash, otherwise, the app may not let you begin.

How DoorDash Dash Now Works?

As we said earlier, scheduling shift is basically DoorDash’s way of handling the high driver population.

So what happens when the demand for drivers surges due to high customer demand, maybe during peak hours or other factors?

Well, that’s where Dash now comes into play…

Dash Now is an option that allows Dashers to start working immediately if there is high demand for deliveries in their current location.

This gives Dashers the flexibility to work whenever they want, without scheduling in advance.

Unlike scheduling, the ability to “Dash now” is not consistent, unless you’re on the Top Dasher program.

Generally, it is dependent on a couple of factors that include the time of day, customer demand, and the number of active Dashers.

In other words, if the demand is high at a particular time of the day, and the number of active dashers is less in comparison to the demand, the chances of the “Dash Now” button being available are high. But if not, you’re less likely to have the button.

Is there any Added Advantage to Using One Over The Other?

Contrary to what most people think, there isn’t actually any real advantage to using anyone over the other, except for the differences in flexibility.

In other words, for instance, there’s no added delivery priority, driver ratings, etc, for scheduling shifts other than using “Dash now.”

You could, however, use both of them interchangeably.

But as we said earlier, while the scheduling feature is always there, you might not always have the Dash Now button to yourself unless you’re a top dasher.

You also need to keep in mind that there are no penalties that come with using one over the other.

For instance, if in your location, you don’t have to schedule shifts to start dashing (like we’ve seen with some people), there’s no penalty that comes with not having to schedule.

However, as we’ve explained, there can always be times when there is less demand for drivers which may lead to you not having the “Dash Now” button. If you don’t have a scheduled shift for days like this, you won’t be able to dash.

Generally, there are no cons that come with scheduling, only pros. On the other hand, relying solely is not bad either but may have its cons.

DoorDash Schedule vs Dash Now: Key differences

The basic difference between Doordash’s schedule and Dash now is “flexibility” and “guaranteed delivery.”

Dash Now allows drivers to easily hop into and start dashing anytime without making any proper advance planning. This could be a great gain If you suddenly find yourself with free time or want to earn extra money

For Guaranteed deliveries, however, sticking with scheduling works better.

You don’t want to start your day, all hoping you’d eventually get a dash now button. What if you don’t?

Scheduling shifts is also not necessarily strict, especially when you have the need to cancel them.

For instance, if you have an emergency that requires your presence, you can always pause, cancel or even edit your schedule.

You also have a grace period of 30 minutes to start your scheduled shifts. Of course, you should always do your best to honor your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Scheduling and Dash Now are two important features on DoorDash.

If you have the opportunity, it’s always best to use them simultaneously, because of course, there’s no harm in doing that.