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
Tipping can become a surprisingly sensitive subject among friends and family members. One person may believe that a delivery fee is enough, while another may feel strongly that the driver should always receive an additional tip.
The best approach is to discuss the issue calmly and focus on the facts.
Explain that the delivery fee usually belongs to the business and is not automatically treated as the driver’s tip. It may also help to look at the receipt together or contact the restaurant for clarification.
When several people are sharing the cost of an order, they can agree on the tip before placing it. That prevents one person from feeling responsible for the entire amount and reduces the chance of an argument when the driver arrives.
9. Practical Guidelines for Tipping on Pizza Delivery
For an order without a delivery fee, a tip of approximately 15% to 20% is commonly considered reasonable. For a small order, a minimum of around $3 to $5 may be more appropriate than a percentage.
When a delivery fee is included, first determine whether it contains a gratuity.
If the fee does not go directly to the driver, consider tipping as you normally would. If the restaurant confirms that the charge includes compensation intended as a gratuity, you may decide to reduce the additional tip.
Other factors can also guide your decision:
