Amazon DSP Driver Pay: The Real Story (2024 Edition)

Ever thought about what it might be like to work as an Amazon delivery driver? Every day, you see those blue Amazon vans dropping orders around your area, but do you know how much Amazon DSP drivers actually make?

While job advertising frequently mentions a starting wage of $15 per hour, the actual situation can be somewhat different.

We’ve dug deep, gathering real feedback from drivers across the country to give you the unfiltered truth about Amazon DSP driver pay in 2024. Buckle up – the reality might surprise you.

“For $15 don’t do it! You make more flipping burgers at mcdonalds!”

– AmazonSlaveRhemmy, Reddit

“$21 an hour… but I’m in the SF Bay Area where you need to be making at least $30 an hour to afford your own place to live.”

– calizona5280, Reddit

As you can see, opinions (and pay rates) vary wildly. Let’s break down what really influences your take-home pay as an Amazon DSP driver.

1. Decoding Amazon DSP Driver Pay: The Basics

Before we get into the details, let’s go over the fundamentals of how Amazon DSP driver pay works.

1.1 What is an Amazon DSP?

DSP stands for Delivery Service Partner. These are independent companies that contract with Amazon to handle last-mile delivery. As a driver, you’re employed by the DSP, not by Amazon directly. This distinction is crucial because it means your pay, benefits, and working conditions can vary significantly depending on which DSP you work for.

1.2 How is Amazon DSP driver pay structured?

Amazon DSP driver compensation typically includes:

• Base pay: Starting wages normally range from $15 to $22 per hour, based on your location and DSP.
• Bonuses: Many DSPs provide additional incentives for hitting specific targets or working during peak periods such as the holidays.
• Additional benefits: Some DSPs offer benefits including medical coverage, paid leaves, and retirement savings programs.

“You may get irrelevant answers to your own situation. It varies depending on the COL of where you live, I’d specify what state to get more useful info.”

– jordymorgandesign, Reddit

1.3 The reality of pay across different regions

Location plays a huge role in determining your pay as an Amazon DSP driver. Here’s a snapshot of what drivers report earning in different areas:

Location	Reported Hourly Rate	Notes
San Francisco Bay Area, CA	$21.00	High cost of living area
Denver, CO	$18.50	Plus potential bonuses up to $300/week
New York City, NY	$20.00	For step van drivers
Seattle, WA	$21.00	After 2 years with DSP
Salem, OR	$18.50	Starting rate

2. The Bonus Structure: Boosting Your Earnings

Many drivers report that bonuses can significantly increase their take-home pay. Here’s what you need to know about Amazon DSP driver bonuses:

2.1 Types of bonuses

• Performance bonuses: Based on metrics like packages delivered per hour or customer feedback.
• Safe driving bonuses: Compensation for keeping a clean driving record.
• Attendance bonuses: Rewards for arriving on time and not calling out.
• Peak season bonuses: Rates are higher at busy times such as during the holidays.

“$18.50 plus up to $300 bonus (I mostly bonus just $100 though a week). In Denver Colorado.”

– Reddit User

2.2 The reality of earning bonuses

While bonuses can be attractive, it’s important to understand that they’re not guaranteed. Many drivers report that consistently hitting bonus targets can be challenging, especially as routes become more demanding.

3. The Challenges: What Amazon DSP Drivers Really Face

While the pay can be competitive in some areas, many drivers report significant challenges that impact their overall job satisfaction and earnings potential.

3.1 Physical demands

Amazon DSP drivers often face grueling physical conditions:

• Long hours on your feet
• Frequent heavy lifting (packages can weigh up to 50 pounds)
• Exposure to all weather conditions

“Not enough for all the bullshit we go through on the road”

– KiingKayy, Reddit

3.2 Time pressure and route challenges

Many drivers report feeling intense pressure to complete routes quickly, often at the expense of breaks or safety:

“Don’t do it. Look on Indeed for other delivery jobs, this one is inhumane… I legit feel like I was in an abusive relationship by comparison.”

– AmazonDiSPicable, Reddit

3.3 Job Security and Hours

Some drivers report inconsistent schedules and difficulty getting full-time hours:

“I make 17.50 but I don’t get a 40 hour week.”

– MrDrPatrick2You, Reddit

4. Maximizing Your Earnings as an Amazon DSP Driver

If you opt to work as an Amazon DSP driver, here are some tips to help increase your earnings:

4.1 Choose your DSP carefully

Not all DSPs are created equal. Research and compare different DSPs in your area, looking at factors like:

• Base pay rates
• Bonus structures
• Benefits offered
• Employee reviews and satisfaction

4.2 Understand and optimize for bonuses

Once you’re familiar with your DSP’s bonus structure, focus on consistently meeting those targets. This might involve:

• Improving your route efficiency
• Maintaining a spotless driving record
• Ensuring excellent customer service

4.3 Consider step van positions

Some DSPs offer higher pay rates for drivers willing to operate larger step vans within the Amazon Relay network. While these positions may require additional training or certifications, they can lead to increased earning potential.

4.4 Optimize your route with technology

Using route optimization software, such as Upper Route Planner, can help you accomplish deliveries more effectively, thus increasing your chances of receiving performance-based bonuses.

Conclusion: Is It Worthwhile to Work as an Amazon DSP Driver?

The answer to this is somewhat personal and is dependent on a number of factors, including your area, the DSP you work for, your own financial needs, and your professional goals.

Some drivers find the job physically taxing, while others find it worth it. So, it is better to first understand the work and then decide whether this job is a good fit for you or not.