Working as a delivery driver for popular platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Menulog is usually seen as a solo gig, especially for those using bikes or motorcycles. But sometimes I see a driver accompanied by their partner, friends, or even a little kid while delivering orders.
This phenomenon raises questions from both drivers and customers in Australia: Is this practice allowed? Are there official rules about having passengers during delivery work? And if it happens, what should be kept in mind to stay professional?
Is Bringing a Passenger Against the Delivery Platform’s Rules?
As we know, the main focus of delivery platforms is just to make sure orders are picked up from the restaurant correctly, delivered to the customer’s address on time, and received in good condition. As long as that’s taken care of, the platform usually doesn’t really care who’s sitting in the passenger seat.
As far as I know, in Australia, there are no specific prohibitions from platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Menulog, or other delivery platforms regarding drivers taking passengers while working.
From a traffic law perspective, nothing is violated as long as the driver has a valid driver’s license, the number of passengers does not exceed the vehicle’s capacity, and everyone in the car follows the road rules applicable in the state they are in.
Why Some Drivers Choose to Bring Passengers
There are a bunch of logical reasons why some gig delivery drivers in Australia choose not to work alone. One of these reasons is safety.
For example, a female driver who has to stay online late at night would definitely feel more at ease if accompanied by a partner or a friend. It gives an extra sense of safety, especially when making deliveries in quiet areas, particularly in rural areas outside the city.
Parents who also work as gig drivers have their own reasons for bringing their children along as passengers. Some of them feel calmer when they have their children with them rather than leaving them at home unsupervised while working.
In addition, there are also drivers who carry passengers just to accompany them. Because there are some people who often feel lonely when doing this job for a long time, especially late at night. The presence of a partner or friend can make this job feel easier and more enjoyable.
Things to Keep in Mind If You Bring a Passenger
If you, as a gig delivery driver, decide to give passengers a ride, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First off, since you’re the driver who has a contract with the platform, you’re fully responsible for this job. So basically, it is highly recommended that only you, as the assigned driver, pick up the food from the restaurant and deliver it to the customer.
Secondly, the car driver still has to be someone registered on the platform with the proper driver’s licence. Never, ever let passengers take the wheel, because that could lead to legal trouble and also break the platform’s rules.
Delivering with a friend
Third, the number of passengers should be limited. Bringing too many people will reduce the space meant for orders. Drivers should also make sure the vehicle is always clean, free of trash or annoying smells.
Fourth, make sure to follow the rules about child car seats if you have to bring a child under 7 years old with you while doing deliveries.
Fifth, pay attention to the safety of child passengers if you have to leave them alone while heading to the drop-off location. Park in a spot that’s still visible while you meet the customer. Turn off the engine, lock the car, but make sure there’s still enough ventilation with a comfortable cabin temperature. And most importantly, don’t take too long, try to keep it to just 1-2 minutes.
Do Customers Actually Care?
For most customers, who sit in the passenger seat may not be particularly important. They are primarily concerned that the food arrives as ordered, on time, and in good condition.
But, there might still be some customers who complain, since they feel having passengers around can make things seem less professional, especially if someone who isn’t the driver gets involved in the delivery process.
So, it’s highly recommended that only registered drivers handle pickups and drop-offs. This way, the relationship between drivers and customers stays smooth and as expected.
You probably won’t get in trouble with delivery platforms, because carrying passengers while delivering in Australia is basically not prohibited, whether by Uber Eats, Menulog, or DoorDash. As long as the driver follows traffic rules, keeps the vehicle clean, and makes sure orders are delivered correctly, the platform won’t have an issue with it.
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