What is Amazon Flex?

Each year there are more than 5 billion parcel deliveries in the UK (nearly 2 per person per week). Many of these are ordered on Amazon and even more are delivered by Amazon fulfilment services.

Amazon uses several different methods for parcel delivery. These include 'DSPs' (small subcontractors) and Amazon Flex, where drivers work directly for Amazon. Flex drivers user their own vehicles and are self-employed.

Many drivers combine food delivery (for Just Eat, Uber and Deliveroo) with Amazon Flex. Unlike most parcel delivery jobs it does not require a van but can be completed in a ‘medium sized car’.

Flex Drivers book and complete multi-drop runs which can last from 1 to 5 hours. This provides more security than most food delivery companies. Most blocks start at Amazon depots although recently they have partnered with Morrisons which means that some blocks will involve picking up orders from the supermarket directly.

How much to drivers earn?

Calculating pay for Flex drivers is easier that food delivery because blocks last longer than food delivery orders and idle time between orders isn't an issue.

The average length of a block is about 2 hours and 45 minutes. This has increased slightly in the past year.

Each block has a different pay offer, based on how long it is and various other factors (effectively how many other drivers are likely to want it). The average pay for a block has also increased in the past year (unlike food delivery). Drivers now earn on average £49 for each block

This translates into approximately £17 per hour. It has fallen slightly since 2022 but will likely rise in the last few months of 2024 (the busiest period, see below).

Which blocks have the highest earnings?

Not all blocks are alike. The shorter blocks actually have a higher average hourly rate. However, you may need to consider travel time to and from the depot that will reduce the pay.

Which months are busiest?

There is a strong seasonal nature to the work. December is the busiest month on Amazon Flex and the pay is highest. January and February tend to be the quietest months.

Which days are busiest?

On food delivery apps Sunday is usually the busiest and highest paying day (followed by Friday and Saturday). It is a different picture for Flex, where Wednesday is the highest paying day.

Do you do Amazon Flex?

Download the Rodeo app to track and analyse your earnings and share your view with other drivers.