Driving Side Hustles Growing in the Gig Economy

The gig economy continues to grow as individuals look for ways to increase their income or just be their own boss without a big investment or high-risk endeavor. Maybe you are one of those individuals that wants to pay down student loan debt or unsecured debts. Maybe you want to save for a home or something more exciting like a hot tub. I’m a firm believer that if you own a hot tub you have made it in life. Game over! So, you might consider these up and coming driving side hustles.

First, I know you know. Everyone is at least aware of Uber and Lyft as they have been around for a minute but keep in mind that they are still up and coming. Experts expect ride hailing services to expand 8 times in the next 10 years. People are getting more comfortable using ride services and as younger generations grow you can expect demand to grow as well. Of course, these companies ultimately want to replace drivers with machines or driver-less vehicles but that is still a very long way out. The general requirements: must be at least 21 years old, in-state driver’s license, and in-state auto insurance. You also need to pass a background check. What do driver’s make? That depends on many factors like where you drive and the hours you choose to work to name a few but most drivers will tell you somewhere between $9 and $17 and hour but it could more or considerably less. Remember this is a side hustle and you can work it when it’s convenient for your schedule.

Deliveries of all kinds are on the rise and demand. While enjoying some very average food at Applebee’s a few weeks back I noticed a stream of people coming in with insulated bags. They’d speak to someone at the carry out section, fill their bags and leave. It finally dawned on me that these folks were working for food delivery services like Door Dash, Grubhub and Uber Eats to know a few of the growing number of services. Basically, this allows you to drive food instead of people. So, if you prefer to listen to music rather than to strangers tell you the strangest things, food delivery might be for you.

Maybe you don’t like to work during the lunch and dinner hours. Maybe the smell of hot food in your car makes your mouth water and drives you insane. (Me again!) I’ve talked with a few people recently that drive for grocery delivery services and really enjoy it. They like to shop and are just good at it. I spend hours in a store searching for a jar of pickles. These shoppers know right where to look. Professional shoppers but with other people’s money. Shipt and Instacart are a couple companies that put out apps for grocery delivery. There are many more. You don’t need to work nights to drive for a side gig. Shipt lists these requirements to work for them. -At least 18 years of age. -Valid U.S. driver’s license and auto insurance. -A reliable vehicle, 1997 or newer. -Knowledge of produce selection. -Insulated cooler bags. -Ability to lift 40 pounds. Sounds like a fun way to earn extra cash!

Postmates advertises that they will deliver anything anywhere. Maybe you don’t have a car, but you do have a bike. Postmates doesn’t require you to have a car. You can use your bike and really hustle for your side hustle! I’m sure you’ll get some great stories to tell about crazy deliveries of unusual items as well. Bonus!

Are you considering other side hustles? Or are you earning extra income with a side gig? If so, consider our free small business financial coaching. Thanks to grant funding, the 6-month program is completely free for participants. Contact us to sign-up so you can start setting and crushing small business financial goals with the guidance of a Financial Coach: marketing@apprisen.com