Tipping customs may be different depending on the country, city, restaurant, or delivery platform. In areas with a higher cost of living, customers may generally tip more. Some apps suggest preset tip amounts, while others allow customers to enter their own amount.
Store policies also vary. A restaurant may pay drivers a higher hourly wage and discourage tipping. Another business may add an automatic gratuity that goes to the driver or is shared among employees.
Before adding another payment, customers should review the receipt carefully. Look for terms such as:
These charges do not necessarily mean the same thing.
7. When a Delivery Fee Might Justify a Smaller Tip
A very high delivery fee may understandably affect how much a customer can afford to tip. A smaller tip may be reasonable when the additional charges are unusually expensive, especially if the restaurant confirms that part of the fee directly supports the driver.
However, customers should avoid assuming that a large fee automatically means the driver is receiving more money.
Before reducing the tip, check the restaurant’s website, read the receipt, or call the store. If the fee does not include gratuity, the driver should still be tipped separately when possible.
The quality and difficulty of the service may also be considered. A large order, long trip, difficult address, or severe weather may justify a higher tip, regardless of the delivery fee.
8. How to Handle Disagreements About Tipping
