Amazon Flex vs Amazon DSP: Contractor or Employee?

Amazon has two very different ways to deliver its packages. Which one suits you depends on whether you want flexibility or a steady paycheck.

Choose Flex if...

• you want a few hours a week around another job
• you have a roomy car and want to see pay before you commit

Drivers report roughly $12 to $18 an hour after vehicle costs, and popular blocks go fast.

Choose a DSP if...

• you need health insurance and steady hours
• you don't want to put miles on your own car

Expect long, physical routes with 150+ stops. Quality varies from one delivery partner to another, so read local reviews.

What a Flex block looks like

You reserve a block in the app, such as three hours from a delivery station or a grocery pickup at Whole Foods. At the station you scan packages into your car, then follow the in-app route. You're paid the block rate shown when you accepted, plus tips on grocery orders.

What a DSP day looks like

You arrive at the station, load a van and head out with a route of 150 or more stops. The day often runs about 10 hours. Many DSPs use cameras and apps that track driving behavior and stop times.

Tips for each

• Flex: check for blocks early in the morning and late at night, when new ones are often released.
• Flex: a roomy car helps; you'll carry dozens of packages.
• DSP: read reviews for the specific delivery partner, since each one is a separate employer.
• DSP: good shoes and a water bottle are essential.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do both? Yes, as long as schedules don't clash. Some DSP drivers pick up Flex blocks on days off.

Which one leads to a better job? DSP experience helps if you later apply to UPS, FedEx or a CDL program.

Bottom line

Choose Flex for flexibility and DSP for steady hours and benefits. Compare them in our Amazon Flex vs Amazon DSP matchup.