Are you looking to earn some extra cash on the side? Have a valid driver’s license and own a vehicle? Then, Amazon Flex might be something you have considered.
As an independent contractor with Amazon Flex, you can make up to $25 per hour delivering packages using your own car.
In this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an Amazon Flex driver, how to maximize your earnings, and how to overcome any challenges that may arise.
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How To Make Money With Amazon Flex
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What Is Amazon Flex?
If you’ve ever received an Amazon package that was delivered by someone who didn’t have the Amazon uniform or a branded car, that was an Amazon Flex driver.
To become an Amazon Flex driver, you must understand the program’s requirements, application process and approval, types of deliveries offered, and pay structure.
Amazon Flex is essentially a freelance delivery program offered by Amazon, where freelance drivers can make money online by delivering packages using their own vehicles.
To become a driver, one must meet certain requirements such as having a valid driver’s license and auto insurance. The application process involves answering qualifying questions, submitting background check information and bank account details for direct deposit.
Once approved, you can choose delivery blocks based on availability and show up at the designated station during the scheduled time frame to pick up packages for delivery.
Requirements To Become An Amazon Flex Driver
If you want to become an Amazon Flex partner in the US and join the many delivery drivers across America who deliver packages on behalf of Amazon every day, you should:
- Have a valid driver’s license. This is mandatory for you to start delivering packages.
- Have access to your own vehicle which must be four-door midsize sedan size or larger. You can deliver in an SUV, van or truck with a covered bed.
- Have a social security number.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Live in a city or location where Amazon Flex is available.
- Have a smartphone compatible with the app.
- The right insurance policy that meets coverage requirements.
If you meet these requirements and pass both criminal and DMV background checks as part of the application process, you can become an independent contractor with Amazon Flex.
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Amazon Flex Application Process and Approval
To apply for Amazon Flex, you must first download the app and create an account if you don’t have one. Otherwise, you can use your existing Amazon Account.
You have to provide basic information like your name, address, education, work experience, and date of birth. You will also have to provide tax and payment details.
You should also choose your delivery preferences to determine where you will pick up and deliver Amazon packages.
As part of the application process, they’ll also ask about your specific vehicle and availability as well as financial details such as how you’d like to be paid via direct deposit. You can even choose to be paid as an LLC.
You will also need to review a few videos to learn about best practices when delivering with Amazon.
With all those things in order, you will also have to undergo a background check before you start working, which is standard practice with delivery services. For example, you also have to go through a similar process when you apply to work with Uber and DoorDash.
It’s worth noting that while applying is straightforward, it may take some time to hear back from Amazon Flex after submitting your application. It can take a few days but typically if they take longer than five business days, you can reach out to Amazon Flex Support via email or by calling them.
When you pass the background check, they will send you a welcome message. If your application is declined, they will let you know why.
How does Amazon Flex Work?
The Amazon Flex program works in blocks. A block is a term used to refer to a delivery. It has all the details of the delivery including the date, type of delivery, your expected earnings, start time, and estimated duration.
Once you have been approved, the Amazon Flex app will show you the available blocks on the Offers page where you can view and schedule them.
You can schedule deliveries for later in the day or the following day by choosing blocks that are available as indicated. That’s referred to as a reserved offer and it is available to you exclusively for a set amount of time. Once that time runs out, it becomes available to other delivery partners.
The other kind of offer besides reserved offer is the instant offer. It is usually indicated as “Available Now” in the Schedule page. Such blocks start within 30 minutes. You can opt to receive a notification when these offers are available.
What if you cannot make it in time?
If you realize that you cannot fulfill a block you scheduled, you can forfeit the scheduled block on the calendar. Your driver standing will not be affected if you cancel at least 45 minutes before the block’s start time.
If you cannot deliver on time due to something beyond your control such as traffic, time of day, station delays, and severe weather, Amazon encourages you to contact Amazon Flex support.
What is Standing?
It is a driver rating system used by Amazon Flex. There are four standings: Fantastic, Great, Fair, and At Risk.
Your standing is determined by your reliability and delivery quality. You are gauged based on five criteria: On-Time Arrival, On-Time Cancel, Delivery Completion, On-Time Delivery, and Delivered and Received.
If you have too many customer complaints, your standing will take a hit. On the other hand, if you consistently get good ratings, your standing will be great and you will have access to rewards.
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Types of Deliveries And Pay Structure
Amazon Flex offers a range of delivery services, including Prime Now, Amazon Fresh, store orders, and standard Amazon packages.
- Standard Amazon.com packages: You pick up packages from an Amazon delivery station and deliver directly to customers.
- Prime Now and Amazon Fresh: You deliver groceries or household items directly to customers.
- Store Orders: You pick up orders from local stores and deliver directly to customers.
The pay structure varies depending on the type of delivery you make. For example, if you are delivering for Prime Now or Amazon Fresh you will tend to earn more per hour than if you started delivering standard Amazon packages.
Amazon Flex partners also have the chance to earn additional tips from customers.
The pay rate for Amazon Flex drivers is flexible based on the types of deliveries they receive and any tips they earn rather than having a fixed salary.
According to Amazon’s website, you can expect to make between $18-$25 per hour. Your earnings will depend on factors such as the number of deliveries completed and customer satisfaction ratings.
It’s important to keep in mind that you are responsible for costs like gas, tolls, and vehicle maintenance when using your car during deliveries.
Amazon Flex Surge Pay
Amazon Flex pays a higher rate (as high as $55/hour) called surge pay for deliveries made during peak season or during extreme weather.
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Insurance Cover
You need to have the required insurance to become an Amazon Flex partner.
In addition to your personal coverage, the company will provide you with the Amazon Commercial Auto Insurance Policy at no cost (except in the State of New York). The policy has:
- Auto liability coverage
- Uninsured motorist/under-insured motorist coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage
The policy only covers you as the driver if something happens as you are driving during a delivery block. It does not cover passengers.
How to Maximize Your Earnings With Amazon Flex
You need to learn how to choose high-demand delivery areas, optimize your delivery schedule, and take advantage of referral bonuses to earn more as an Amazon Flex driver. Read on for tips on how you can maximize your earnings:
Choose High-demand Delivery Areas
One key to maximizing earnings with Amazon Flex is choosing high-demand delivery areas.
Check the schedule regularly for new delivery blocks and ramp up for the holidays by looking for busier blocks during peak times, such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
Work during optimal periods
The winter holiday season is typically Amazon’s busiest time of year, which means there are more delivery opportunities which you can capitalize to earn more money.
You can also keep an eye out for instant offers, which allow drivers to pick up last-minute packages and earn extra money on slow days.
Optimize Your Delivery Schedule
One of the keys to earning more money as an Amazon Flex driver is to maximize your delivery schedule. To do this, it’s important to choose high-demand areas and plan your routes in advance.
Use Google Maps or other navigation tools to find the most efficient route for each delivery, and try to avoid rush hour traffic if possible.
You should also organize your packages properly so that you can complete deliveries in a timely manner and avoid late deliveries.
Another strategy for optimizing your delivery schedule is to prioritize deliveries that are time-sensitive or require immediate attention. For example, if you have a package that needs to be delivered within a certain timeframe, make sure that it’s at the top of your list for that day.
By being strategic about which deliveries you complete first, you can increase your chances of earning bonuses and rewards from Amazon Flex.
Utilize The Amazon Flex App For Efficiency
The Amazon Flex app is a game-changer if you are looking to maximize your efficiency. With features like real-time package tracking, location-based push notifications, and customizable settings, the app allows you to stay organized and on top of your deliveries.
Additionally, the app offers helpful tools such as GPS navigation and built-in communication with customers that help smooth out the delivery process.
Take Advantage Of Bonuses
One great way to maximize your earning potential as an Amazon Flex driver is by taking advantage of bonuses. In the past, Amazon Flex used to offer cash incentives for referring new drivers to the program, but currently there are no such programs available.
However, you can take advantage of the Amazon Flex Rewards program to earn cash back with the Amazon Flex Debit Card, enjoy Preferred Scheduling, and access numerous discounts.
You don’t have to sign up for the program and you simply earn points by completing blocks and making deliveries. The more points you earn, the higher rewards levels you unlock to access more rewards.
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How to Overcome Challenges in Amazon Flex
Drivers in Amazon Flex face challenges such as dealing with difficult customers and undeliverable packages and navigating traffic and weather-related hurdles which they must deal with if they are to have a smooth experience.
Here are tips on how to deal with some of the challenges you will encounter as an Amazon Flex driver:
Coping With Difficult Customers And Undeliverable Packages
You may encounter difficult customers during your delivery blocks. These customers can be demanding or uncooperative, making it challenging for you to complete your deliveries on time. To cope with such situations, you need strong communication skills and a level head to navigate customer concerns and complaints.
Undeliverable packages are another challenge that you may face. Incomplete or undeliverable packages can result in lost points, which can affect your standing and, ultimately, the ability to secure the best delivery blocks.
If you have an undelivered package, select an accurate reason in the Amazon Flex app. Amazon expects you to return the package to the original pick-up location. If the delivery station will be closed by the time you arrive, you are expected to return the package by 10 am the next day.
Navigating Traffic And Weather-related Hurdles
As an Amazon Flex driver, navigating traffic and weather-related hurdles can be a challenging part of the job. Heavy traffic during rush hour or weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can delay delivery times and impact earnings.
To overcome these challenges, you need to plan your schedules and routes carefully. You should keep an eye on weather forecasts and avoid areas with expected congestion or delays due to road closures or construction work. It’s also important to ensure you have the necessary equipment like snow tires in winter months to make sure you can travel safely.
Overall, while traffic and extreme weather conditions are inevitable parts of being an Amazon Flex driver, careful planning and preparation can help you navigate through difficult situations successfully while maximizing your earnings potential.
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The Benefits Of Amazon Flex And Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Amazon Flex can be a great opportunity if you are looking to earn extra money as your own boss. With the ability to choose delivery areas and schedule, you have the flexibility to work when it’s convenient.
Plus, with pay rates between $18 and $25 per hour, it can be a lucrative side hustle or even a full-time gig in some cases. And let’s not forget the added benefits of bonuses and the convenience of using the Amazon Flex app.
By following the tips mentioned in this guide, you can maximize your earnings as an Amazon delivery driver and overcome obstacles that come your way.
Of course, there are challenges that come with being an independent contractor, but with some smart strategies and perseverance, you can thrive. Overall, if you’re up for the challenge and want to earn extra cash on your own terms, Amazon Flex may just be worth considering!
Before you leave
If you’re tired of scams and want a real solution for making money online check out my no.1 recommendation.
It’s helped me earn over $300,000 in the last 12 months alone:
Go here to see my no.1 recommendation for making money online
(This is a 100% free training)
David Fortune has been the editor NoBSIMReviews.com since 2019. He is an expert at writing content on stock advisory services, side hustles, reviewing online business opportunities and many more topics. You can learn more about David on our about us page.