SkipTheDishes is one of the biggest food delivery platforms in Canada, and it’s actually a homegrown Canadian company. The app connects customers with local restaurants and independent couriers who deliver the food. If you’re driving for Skip, you’re called a courier, not an employee.
In simple terms, Skip works like this: a customer places an order through the SkipTheDishes app, the restaurant prepares the food, and a courier picks it up and drops it off at the customer’s location. Everything runs through the app—from accepting orders to navigation and delivery updates.
SkipTheDishes is especially popular in small to mid-sized Canadian cities, not just major hubs like Toronto or Vancouver. In many towns across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Atlantic provinces, Skip is often the go-to delivery app. That means steady demand and less cutthroat competition compared to some bigger platforms.
For drivers, SkipTheDishes offers a scheduled shift system instead of fully on-demand driving. Couriers book shifts in advance, log in during those hours, and receive delivery offers within their zone. It’s a bit more structured than other apps, which some drivers actually prefer—less chaos, more predictability.
Overall, SkipTheDishes is a solid option if you’re looking for a flexible side hustle in Canada, especially in cities where Skip has a strong local presence. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done—pretty on-brand for Canada, eh.
Basic Requirements to Become a SkipTheDishes Driver
To sign up as a SkipTheDishes courier in Canada, you need to meet a few basic requirements. Overall, it’s pretty straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Minimum age: 18 years old
SkipTheDishes only accepts adult couriers since the role is considered independent contractor work.
Legal authorization to work in Canada
You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work permit. Skip does not provide visa sponsorship.
Smartphone (iOS or Android)
The Skip Courier app runs everything—from accepting orders to navigation and delivery updates—so a reliable phone is a must.
Stable internet / mobile data connection
Dropped signals or slow data can mess up your shift, especially during busy hours.
Accepted mode of transportation
- Car (most common across Canada)
- Bike or scooter (available in select cities only)
- Vehicle options depend on your delivery zone.
As long as you’ve got the legal side covered, a working phone, and a reliable way to get around, you’re good to go. No fancy qualifications needed—just show up and do the job, nice and easy.
Vehicle Requirements for SkipTheDishes Couriers
Your vehicle doesn’t need to be brand new or fancy, but it does need to be safe, legal, and reliable. SkipTheDishes wants to make sure deliveries run smoothly and without drama.
Vehicle must be in good working condition
- Engine runs properly
- Brakes, lights, and signals work
- Tires are in safe condition
Basically, if your car wouldn’t pass a basic road check, it’s probably a no-go.
No strict minimum model year (in most cities)
SkipTheDishes is generally more relaxed compared to ride-hailing apps. As long as the vehicle is roadworthy, older models are usually fine.
Valid vehicle registration
Your vehicle must be legally registered in Canada and match the information you provide during sign-up.
Active auto insurance
- Insurance must be valid and up to date
- Coverage needs to meet provincial minimum requirements
- Commercial insurance is usually not required, but rules can vary by province
Vehicle type must match your account
- Car couriers must use a car
- Bike couriers must use a bike
- Switching vehicle types usually requires updating your account.
For most couriers, this part is pretty chill. If your vehicle is legal and safe enough for daily driving, it’s probably good enough for Skip. Just keep it maintained—nobody wants to deal with car trouble mid-shift, eh.
Driver Documents Needed for Registration
When signing up as a SkipTheDishes courier, you’ll need to upload a few basic documents. Nothing complicated, but they have to be clear, valid, and up to date.
Valid Canadian driver’s licence
- Must be current and not expired
- Licence class must match the vehicle you’re using
- Learner’s permits are usually not accepted
Proof of vehicle insurance
- Insurance must be active
- Name on the policy should match your application
- Must meet provincial insurance requirements
Vehicle registration document
- Shows the vehicle is legally registered
- Plate number should match your account details
Government-issued photo ID
- Canadian passport, PR card, or other accepted ID
- Used for identity verification
Proof of legal work status (if applicable)
- Work permit for temporary residents
- Must be valid for the duration you plan to deliver
Make sure all photos or scans are clear and readable. Blurry uploads are one of the most common reasons applications get delayed or bounced back. Take your time here—it saves headaches later, for sure.
Background Check and Identity Verification
After you submit your documents, SkipTheDishes runs a quick identity and background verification. This step helps keep the platform safe for customers, restaurants, and couriers.
Identity verification process
- Confirms your name and photo ID
- Ensures your documents match your account details
- Usually done fully online
Background check overview
- Skip may review your driving record and basic background info
- The process is generally lighter compared to ride-hailing apps
- Not all applicants are asked for the same level of checks
Review and approval timeline
- Most applications are reviewed within a few days
- Some may take longer if documents need re-uploading
- Delays are usually due to unclear or expired documents
Common reasons applications get rejected
- Invalid or expired documents
- Mismatched names or vehicle details
- Not authorized to work in Canada
- Insurance or registration issues
For most people, this step is pretty smooth. As long as your info checks out and your docs are legit, approval usually comes through without much hassle. Just keep an eye on your email—Skip will let you know if they need anything else.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Signing up as a SkipTheDishes courier is fully online and doesn’t take long if you’ve got all your documents ready. Here’s how the process usually goes:
Create a SkipTheDishes courier account
- Apply through the official SkipTheDishes courier website
- Enter your basic personal information
Choose your delivery zone
- Select the city or zone where you plan to deliver
- Availability depends on local demand
Enter vehicle details
- Vehicle type (car, bike, or scooter)
- Registration and insurance information
Upload required documents
- Driver’s licence
- Insurance and vehicle registration
- ID and work authorization (if needed)
Complete identity and background checks
- Online verification process
- May require additional confirmation
Wait for approval
- Review usually takes a few days
- You’ll get an email once approved
Activate your courier account
- Log into the Skip Courier app
- Set your availability and book shifts
Once you’re approved, you’re basically good to go. No in-person interviews, no long training sessions—just download the app, grab a shift, and start delivering. Pretty chill, honestly.
SkipTheDishes Courier Equipment
Before you hit the road, you’ll need a few pieces of basic equipment. The most important one is the thermal bag—Skip doesn’t mess around when it comes to food quality.
Official SkipTheDishes thermal bag
- Required to start delivering
- Keeps food hot (or cold) during transport
- Usually provided by Skip after approval
Cost of the courier bag
- The bag is not free
- Cost is typically deducted from your future earnings
- No upfront payment in most cases
Delivery gear basics
- Phone mount for hands-free navigation
- Power bank or car charger
- Comfortable footwear, especially for apartment deliveries
Vehicle-specific extras (optional but helpful)
- Insulated cup holders for drinks
- Trunk organizer to keep orders from sliding around
- Rain gear for rough Canadian weather
Once you’ve got the bag and your setup ready, you’re set. Nothing fancy—just practical gear to get the job done and keep customers happy. Welcome to real Canadian delivery life, rain or shine.
Understanding SkipTheDishes Shifts and Scheduling
Unlike some delivery apps that are fully on-demand, SkipTheDishes uses a shift-based system. This gives couriers a bit more structure and helps balance supply and demand.
Shift-based scheduling system
- Couriers book shifts in advance
- Shifts are assigned to specific delivery zones
- You only receive orders while logged in during your shift
How to book shifts
- Shifts are released in the Skip Courier app
- Availability depends on your zone and demand
- Popular time slots can fill up fast
Typical shift times
- Lunch hours (late morning to early afternoon)
- Dinner rush (late afternoon to evening)
- Weekends are usually busier than weekdays
Flexibility within shifts
- You can choose how many shifts to work
- Easy to work part-time or around another job
- You’re not forced to accept every shift offered
Why some drivers prefer Skip’s system
- More predictable work hours
- Less waiting around with the app on
- Better planning for fuel and time
If you like knowing when you’ll work instead of just hoping for orders, Skip’s shift system can feel pretty clutch. It’s structured, but still flexible—classic Canadian balance, eh.
Pros and Cons of Becoming a SkipTheDishes Driver
Like any gig, driving for SkipTheDishes comes with its ups and downs. Here’s the real talk—no sugarcoating.
Pros
- Flexible schedule
- You choose your shifts and work around your own availability.
- Easy entry requirements
- No interviews, no resumes—just meet the requirements and sign up.
- Good coverage in smaller cities
- Skip is strong outside major metros, which can mean steadier orders.
- Decent side hustle option
- Works well as extra income alongside another job or school.
Cons
- No guaranteed income
- Earnings depend on demand, shifts, and tips.
- Out-of-pocket vehicle costs
- Fuel, maintenance, and insurance are on you.
- Shift availability can be limited
- Busy zones and prime hours fill up quickly.
- Independent contractor status
- No employee benefits like paid time off or health coverage.
At the end of the day, SkipTheDishes is solid for flexibility and simplicity, but it’s not a magic money button. If you go in with realistic expectations, it can be a pretty decent gig.
Is SkipTheDishes Worth It in Canada?
So, is driving for SkipTheDishes actually worth it? The answer really depends on your situation and where you’re located.
Best for part-time or side income
Skip works well if you’re looking for flexible hours rather than a full-time, guaranteed paycheck.
Works better in certain cities
Smaller and mid-sized Canadian cities often offer steadier demand and less competition than major metros.
Good fit for newcomers and students
The low barrier to entry makes it popular among international students and recent immigrants with valid work permits.
Not ideal for everyone
If you need stable income, benefits, or long-term career growth, Skip may feel limiting.
Final takeaway
SkipTheDishes isn’t perfect, but it’s a legit and accessible way to earn extra cash in Canada. Go in with realistic expectations, plan your shifts smartly, and you’ll know pretty quickly if it’s your kind of hustle—or not.
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