Food delivery has become an integral part of Canadian life, especially with busy schedules and the convenience that apps like SkipTheDishes, UberEats, and DoorDash offer. However, with convenience comes cost, and if you're not careful, frequent orders can have a significant impact on your budget. For Canadians who want to enjoy the ease of ordering in without breaking the bank, it’s essential to understand how these services compare in terms of pricing, fees, and money-saving opportunities.

The Popularity of Food Delivery Apps in Canada

Food delivery apps have soared in popularity, with Canadians opting for quick meals at the tap of a button. Whether it’s a Friday night in, a busy weekday without time to cook, or even a spontaneous craving, SkipTheDishes, UberEats, and DoorDash offer endless options. Yet, each platform brings unique features and fees that you need to consider before deciding which one works best for your budget.

SkipTheDishes: The Canadian Favorite

As a Canadian-founded company, SkipTheDishes has gained a massive user base across the country. It’s often seen as the go-to for many Canadians due to its familiarity and extensive reach in smaller cities, where the other two apps might not always be available.

Fees: One key advantage of SkipTheDishes is its competitive delivery fees. They generally range from $2 to $5, depending on your location and the restaurant. Skip also charges a service fee, which varies from 10-15% of the order value. This can quickly add up if you're not careful.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Skip Rewards: One of the standout features is the Skip Rewards program. With each order, you earn points that can be redeemed for discounts on future orders. This can be a great way to offset some of the delivery and service fees over time.
  
  
• Promotion Codes: Skip frequently offers promo codes to loyal users, providing savings on meals, delivery, and even service fees.

UberEats: Global Player with Perks

UberEats, part of the larger Uber network, offers a robust delivery experience. Known for its vast selection of restaurants, ranging from fast food to gourmet, it’s widely used in larger urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

Fees: UberEats tends to have slightly higher delivery fees, which can vary based on demand, time of day, and the restaurant's location. These fees can range from $3 to $7, with an additional service fee that is typically around 10-15% of the order value.

Subscriptions and Discounts:

• UberEats Pass: One of the best ways to save with UberEats is by subscribing to the Eats Pass for $9.99 a month. This subscription eliminates delivery fees and provides a 5% discount on orders over $15, making it ideal for frequent users.
  
  
• Promotions and Discounts: UberEats is also known for offering limited-time promotions, which often include discounts on delivery or specific restaurants. Keeping an eye on these deals can help you save on those impulse orders.

DoorDash: The Challenger with Competitive Perks

Although DoorDash is a newer player compared to SkipTheDishes, it has quickly gained popularity in Canada due to its variety of restaurants and excellent customer service.

Fees: DoorDash’s fees are generally in the $2 to $6 range for delivery, with an additional service fee that hovers around 10-15% of your total. Similar to UberEats, these fees can vary based on the time of day and demand.

Money-Saving Options:

• DashPass: Like UberEats, DoorDash offers a subscription model called DashPass for $9.99 a month. DashPass subscribers get free delivery and reduced service fees on orders over $12. If you’re a frequent user of DoorDash, this can significantly cut down your spending.
  
  
• Special Offers: DoorDash often partners with restaurants for exclusive deals. Be sure to check the app regularly for discounts and promotions that can save you money on your favorite meals.

The True Cost of Convenience: Fees to Watch Out For

One of the biggest issues Canadians face when using these food delivery services is the hidden costs. It’s not just the meal price you need to consider; it’s all the additional fees that come with each order.

1. Delivery Fees: These vary by app, restaurant, and location. While the typical range is $2 to $7, it’s worth comparing between apps to find the cheapest delivery option for your order.
   
2. Service Fees: A percentage of your order (usually 10-15%) is charged as a service fee. This is on top of delivery fees and can push the price of your meal higher than expected.
3. Small Order Fees: If your order is below a certain threshold (typically $10-$15), apps often charge an extra "small order fee," which can be an additional $2 to $4.
4. Tips: While tipping your delivery driver is always encouraged, it’s another cost to factor into your total. Apps often suggest tips between 10% to 20% of your order value.

Saving Money: Smart Strategies for Canadians

While using food delivery apps can feel like a luxury, there are several ways Canadians can cut costs without sacrificing convenience. Here are some strategies to keep in mind:

1. Use Loyalty Programs: Both SkipTheDishes and UberEats offer loyalty programs (Skip Rewards and UberEats Pass), which can save you money over time. Accumulate points with each order and redeem them for discounts.
2. Leverage Subscriptions: If you order food often, consider subscribing to DashPass or UberEats Pass. These subscriptions eliminate delivery fees and reduce service fees, which can lead to significant savings over time.
3. Compare Fees: Always check the delivery and service fees between apps before placing an order. Fees can vary widely even for the same restaurant, so it pays to do a quick comparison.
4. Order from Local Restaurants: Many local restaurants offer their own delivery service, which can sometimes be cheaper than using a third-party app. If you're looking to save, check if your favorite restaurant delivers directly.
5. Take Advantage of Promotions: Keep an eye on promotions and deals. Whether it’s a limited-time discount on delivery or a special offer from a specific restaurant, these promotions can help you save significantly.
6. Consider Pick-Up Options: Many apps offer a pick-up option, allowing you to skip the delivery and service fees altogether. If you’re close to the restaurant, this can be a great way to save.



Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Balance

While the convenience of food delivery apps like SkipTheDishes, UberEats, and DoorDash is undeniable, frequent use can quickly add up. Canadians looking to save more on their food delivery habits should focus on utilizing loyalty programs, leveraging subscription models, and being mindful of the additional fees that come with every order. By being strategic about how and when you order, you can enjoy the convenience of these services without the financial strain.