Securing a block of time to deliver orders is known as scheduling a dash within the DoorDash platform. This process allows a Dasher to reserve a specific time slot to work in a chosen zone, ensuring they can log in and receive delivery requests. Scheduling is a deliberate action that contrasts with the “Dash Now” feature, which is only available when the system determines there are not enough drivers currently on the road. By scheduling, a driver helps the platform maintain a predictable supply of Dashers, which is important for overall service reliability.
Why Scheduling Matters for Dashers
Scheduling provides a layer of security, particularly in markets where driver saturation is high. When too many Dashers are already logged in, the “Dash Now” option often disappears, leaving non-scheduled drivers unable to work. By pre-booking hours, a Dasher guarantees their ability to log in and start accepting orders, regardless of real-time demand fluctuations.
DoorDash can plan its dispatch based on the number of scheduled drivers, meaning those drivers are more likely to be kept busy throughout their reserved time. The consistency of scheduled work allows a Dasher to better plan their income and manage their day. Scheduling is especially beneficial for securing hours during peak meal times, such as the lunch and dinner rushes, which are typically the most profitable.
The Step-by-Step Scheduling Process
The process of reserving a time slot begins in the Dasher application under the dedicated “Schedule” tab. Drivers navigate to this section to view available time blocks for their preferred zones and future dates. The schedule is typically released in advance, with slots becoming available up to five days out for standard access Dashers.
A Dasher selects the desired day and chooses a specific start and end time, often in 30-minute increments, to customize the shift length. The Dasher must confirm the booking to reserve that block of time. Since shifts are released on a first-come, first-served basis, popular times and busy zones are often claimed quickly.
Early Access Scheduling Requirements
For high-performing Dashers, the platform offers Early Access Scheduling, which provides a significant advantage in securing desirable shifts. This benefit allows qualifying drivers to view and book shifts six days in advance, a full day earlier than the standard access group. New time slots are often released at 3:00 PM daily, allowing these drivers to reserve the best hours before they become available to the general Dasher population.
To qualify for this priority access, a Dasher must meet specific performance metrics, which are evaluated weekly. Requirements include maintaining a Customer Rating of at least 4.6 and a Completion Rate of 95% or higher. The Dasher must also have completed at least five deliveries between the previous Friday at 12:00 AM and the current Thursday at 11:59 PM. These requirements incentivize consistent performance and regular activity on the platform.
Starting and Managing Your Scheduled Dash
When the reserved time arrives, the Dasher must use the app to initiate the shift and begin receiving orders. The system provides a short grace period, typically about 10 minutes, for the Dasher to check in and tap the “Start Dashing” button. If a Dasher is running late, they must start the dash within this window to prevent the system from automatically canceling the shift.
Once the dash has begun, the Dasher is expected to remain available for orders until the scheduled end time. If the Dasher wishes to continue working past the reserved block, they can check if the zone is still busy and try to extend the dash directly within the app.
A Dasher is free to end the shift early at any point, as they are independent contractors and not locked into the full duration of the schedule. Ending a dash early does not incur a penalty, but it releases the remaining time back into the pool for other Dashers to claim.
The Impact of Missing a Scheduled Dash
Failing to start a scheduled dash within the 10-minute grace period results in the automatic cancellation of the shift. While DoorDash does not impose a direct penalty for a single missed shift, repeated instances can negatively affect a driver’s overall standing. Consistent failure to start reserved blocks can signal unreliable behavior, though there is no official “Dasher Reliability Rating” that tracks adherence to scheduled shifts.
The most significant consequence of frequently missing or canceling scheduled shifts is the potential loss of Early Access Scheduling privileges. Since Early Access requires consistent performance and weekly delivery minimums, a pattern of non-adherence could lead to not meeting the program’s criteria during the weekly evaluation. Losing this priority access means the Dasher will be relegated to the standard scheduling window, making it harder to reserve hours in competitive markets.