How Much to Tip for Food Delivery?
Delivery apps make ordering easy but leave the tip up to you. The standard is 15–20% of the order total, with a $3–5 minimum — and more for tough deliveries. Use the free tip calculator to get the exact amount.
Quick answer: tip 15–20% of the order, at least $3–5. On a $40 order that's $6–8. Add more for distance, weather, or big orders.
Standard delivery tips
| Order total | 15% | 20% |
|---|---|---|
| $15 | $3 (min) | $3–4 |
| $25 | $3.75 | $5 |
| $40 | $6 | $8 |
| $60 | $9 | $12 |
| $100 | $15 | $20 |
When to tip more
- Bad weather — rain, snow, or heat make deliveries harder. Add a few dollars.
- Long distance — a driver coming from far away spends more time and fuel.
- Large or heavy orders — multiple bags or cases of drinks deserve extra.
- Great service — careful handling, good communication, on-time arrival.
Common questions
Does the delivery fee count as a tip?
No. The delivery fee almost always goes to the app (DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub), not the driver. Your tip is separate and is what the driver actually earns, so don't skip it because a fee was charged.
Tip on the subtotal or the total?
Most people tip on the food subtotal (before fees and tax). Tipping on the grand total is also fine and more generous — either works.
Should I tip in the app or cash?
Either is fine. In-app tipping is convenient and trackable; cash goes straight to the driver immediately. Tipping in the app when you order also helps your order get accepted faster.
Work out the exact tip: pop your order total into the tip calculator and pick your percentage.